Advanced
Error loading page.
Try refreshing the page. If that doesn't work, there may be a network issue, and you can use our self test page to see what's preventing the page from loading.
Learn more about possible network issues or contact support for more help.
Title details for Beyond the Throne by Kristian Nairn - Available

Beyond the Throne

Epic Journeys, Enduring Friendships, and Surprising Tales

by Kristian Nairn
Kristian Nairn
Audiobook (Includes supplementary content)
1 of 1 copy available
Borrow Listen to a sample Listen to a sample
1 of 1 copy available
Beyond the Throne is the first memoir to share behind‑the‑scenes stories of the perils and triumphs of Game of Thrones—from beloved performer Kristian Nairn, who played Hodor and became one of the most recognizable figures of the global television phenomenon.
The story of an unlikely hero who fulfilled his destiny... Fans will be fascinated by Kristian Nairn's experience on Game of Thrones, from his unlikely audition to his on-the-job training as an actor to his ascendance as one of the most beloved and pivotal characters on the show. Nairn details the camaraderie that develops as the actors face the elements on set, not entirely unlike the ones their characters must endure on screen, as well as the life-altering effects of worldwide stardom.
Nairn's personal story—raised by a single mother during the Troubles in Ireland, coming of age as a gay man in Lisburn and Belfast, navigating intolerance, and seeking out his scene—is an epic, often rollicking, sometimes heartbreaking journey all its own. Nairn finds his voice and his confidence performing as a drag queen called Revvlon, and eventually DJing at the legendary nightclub Kremlin. Through the pitfalls and revelations of his creative pursuits, Nairn comes to understand who he really is, and that he is enough—a message that will resonate for anyone who has struggled to find their place.

  • Creators

  • Publisher

  • Release date

    September 24, 2024

  • Formats

    • OverDrive Listen audiobook

      • ISBN: 9781668639269
      • File size: 247413 KB
      • Duration: 08:35:26

  • Languages

    • English

  • Reviews

    • Kirkus

      Starred review from August 15, 2024
      A Northern Irish actor delves into the complex life story that helped him transform an aphasic character on HBO'sGame of Thrones into a beloved hero. When a Belfast talent booker urged the 6-foot-10 author to go to a television casting call for a "strong, tall character" who spoke just one word, Nairn reluctantly agreed. The ultimately successful audition--and the character of Hodor--changed his life. In this thoughtful, moving memoir, Nairn explores a painful past growing up during the Irish Troubles. Abandoned by his father and ridiculed for his height, Nairn grew up an outcast, a situation rendered even more excruciating by being a closeted gay man in still-homophobic Ireland. His journey to self-acceptance began with explorations of homosexual identity through his drag queen alter ego, Revvlon Miguel. His forays into the gay club scene inspired him to pursue jobs as a drag queen, then as a DJ. Yet it was only after he landed a role onGame of Thrones that Nairn felt called to take his career as an entertainer seriously. Perceived at first as little more than a "lumbering half-wit," Hodor became the vehicle through which Nairn learned the subtleties of the acting craft. The character also offered him unexpected opportunities to develop deep friendships with people like 10-year-old co-star Isaac Hempstead Wright (whom Nairn was at first determined not to like) and to overcome the emotional demons that kept him from speaking his mind and fully connecting with others. Fans will no doubt enjoy the behind-the-scenes details Nairn offers about the meticulously crafted world ofGame of Thrones. But the real delight of this book lies in its honest, sensitive portrayal of a man who comes into his own through the unexpected convergence of art and life. Compelling and richly satisfying.

      COPYRIGHT(2024) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

    • Library Journal

      August 23, 2024

      Nairn's memoir is more than a behind-the-scenes look at his work on the HBO blockbuster series Game of Thrones. It's also a poignant look at the life of an outsider seeking peace and acceptance. Best known as GOT's heroic giant Hodor, Nairn grew up amid the violent conflict in Northern Ireland. After his father abandoned the family, he found solace in music and books. His towering height (he would grow to 6' 10") led to ridicule. He came out as gay at the age of 14 and, later, moved away to explore this part of his identity. He would find acceptance among the gay community, first as a drag performer named "Revvlon Miguel" and through a successful Belfast disc jockey career. On GOT, he discovers new ways of communicating through performance and grows friendships with some of his castmates. Nairn's memoir is chock-full of episodes in which violence and peace intermingle, but that won't deter readers' enjoyment of this extraordinary book. VERDICT Nairn's book will appeal to Game of Thrones fans and those who enjoy good memoirs.--Leah K. Huey

      Copyright 2024 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Formats

  • OverDrive Listen audiobook

subjects

Languages

  • English

Loading