Conleth Hill, the actor renowned for his portrayal of Lord Varys in the acclaimed HBO series Game of Thrones, recently opened up about his initial reluctance to join the fantasy drama, revealing that he was hesitant to embrace the role due to its stark contrast with his usual acting repertoire. In an interview with The Irish Times, Hill stated, "I was resistant for a long time. I’m not into wizards," highlighting his initial doubts about stepping into a world filled with magic and fantastical elements.
Despite his reservations, Hill's perspective shifted after he delved deeper into the character of Varys, particularly moved by a pivotal scene in Season 3, Episode 4, titled "And Now His Watch Is Ended." In this episode, Varys shares his traumatic backstory with Tyrion Lannister, revealing that he was kidnapped and castrated as a child by a sorcerer in the city of Myr. This harrowing experience instilled in him a profound hatred of magic, which resonated with Hill. The actor explained, "I don’t think it was a typical casting call. They wanted people who could handle the language, who had done Shakespeare," demonstrating the show's commitment to high-caliber acting.
The scene in question serves as a crucial moment for Varys, where he not only recounts his past but also reveals his motivations and his complex relationship with power. He tells Tyrion that his traumatic childhood event led him to imprison the sorcerer responsible for his suffering, a narrative twist that adds layers to his character. Varys advises Tyrion to be patient and strategic in his quest for power, stating, "The revenge you want will be yours in time — if you have the stomach for it." This blend of personal history and political strategy showcases Varys as a character who navigates the treacherous waters of Westerosi politics with cunning and foresight.
Hill's portrayal of Varys was marked by a unique blend of wisdom and manipulation, making him one of the most enigmatic figures within the Small Council. He served various rulers, including Robert and Joffrey Baratheon, and eventually formed an alliance with Tyrion Lannister. However, his political machinations ultimately led to his downfall when he conspired against Daenerys Targaryen, resulting in his execution. Hill's ability to convey the complexities of Varys's character contributed significantly to the show's success.
Game of Thrones, based on George R.R. Martin’s series A Song of Ice and Fire, aired for eight seasons from 2011 to 2019 and remains one of HBO's most successful series to date. The show's intricate storytelling and character development have left a lasting impact on its audience. Following the original series, the universe of Westeros continues to expand with new projects. The first spin-off, House of the Dragon, which focuses on the Targaryen civil war, released its second season in 2024 to positive reviews.
In addition to House of the Dragon, another spin-off series titled A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is set to premiere later this year. Martin has expressed his excitement for this new project, although he cautions fans not to expect an action-packed narrative. Furthermore, there are rumors of a Game of Thrones film currently in early development, with speculation surrounding the return of fan-favorite character Arya Stark, played by Maisie Williams.
As the franchise continues to evolve, it also branches out into other media, including video games. The upcoming game Game of Thrones: Kingsroad, featuring Kit Harington’s character Jon Snow, is set to be released this year, further expanding the franchise's reach.
Conleth Hill’s journey as Lord Varys reflects not only his personal growth as an actor but also the broader narrative complexities that Game of Thrones brought to television. His initial reluctance transformed into a powerful performance that resonated with audiences worldwide, showcasing the depth and nuance that can emerge from characters shaped by trauma and ambition.
As fans eagerly await the next chapters in the Game of Thrones saga, Hill's reflections serve as a reminder of the intricate storytelling that has captivated viewers and the profound character journeys that lie at the heart of this epic tale.
