Buzz
While on-set injuries are nothing new in the acting world, developing long-term pain from a role is every actor's nightmare. This was the reality for Kristian Nairn, known for his role as Hodor in Game of Thrones, who suffered chronic pain after carrying Isaac Hempstead Wright, who played Bran Stark, for nearly six seasons.
During an episode of the Inside of You with Michael Rosenbaum podcast, Nairn revealed he developed a pelvic tilt, a condition that can be corrected but demands six months of physical therapy. "I do have a back issue, but it stems from my time on Game of Thrones," Nairn shared. "All that carrying took its toll."
Nairn explained that when Hempstead Wright grew too tall to carry, a petite woman named Samantha stepped in as a double for Bran. However, it wasn't until later seasons that the production team found a stunt double with a similar build to the 7-foot-tall Nairn, who could assist with the physically demanding scenes.
When questioned about pursuing legal action for the injuries he suffered while filming Game of Thrones, the 43-year-old actor dismissed the idea with a laugh. "I wouldn’t consider that route; the show has given me so much," said Nairn, who is from Northern Ireland. "That’s such an American mindset! We don’t sue over things like that where I’m from."
Despite numerous fan theories suggesting a possible return of the late Hodor in the final season, it seems improbable. Game of Thrones is set to premiere its final season on April 14.
