Game of Thrones actress Hannah Waddingham recently disclosed that the fate of her character, Septa Unella, was initially intended to be far more gruesome than what viewers witnessed on screen. In a series known for its shocking twists and character deaths, Septa Unella's demise was particularly brutal, but it was not the original plan.
Septa Unella met her end in Season 6 at the hands of Cersei Lannister, who sought revenge for the humiliation she endured during her walk of shame orchestrated by the High Sparrow and his followers. Cersei's retribution involved torturing Septa Unella by waterboarding her with wine and leaving her in the hands of Ser Gregor Clegane, also known as the Mountain, implying a slow and agonizing death.
Unlike many other characters in Game of Thrones, Septa Unella's ultimate fate was left ambiguous, leaving room for speculation among fans. The revelation that the original plan was for her to be raped by the Mountain sheds light on the darker paths the show could have taken, especially considering the backlash over previous instances of graphic sexual violence in the series.
Waddingham's portrayal of Septa Unella marked a significant point in her career, preceding her breakout role in the acclaimed series Ted Lasso, which garnered her critical acclaim and accolades, including an Emmy award. Her success post-Game of Thrones has led to numerous opportunities in film and television, showcasing her talent and versatility as an actress.
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, with a greater emphasis on representation and sensitivity in storytelling, the controversies surrounding Game of Thrones' treatment of female characters are being taken into account in future projects. The assurance from actresses like Olivia Cooke, starring in the House Of The Dragon spin-off, that such violence will be handled differently reflects a shift towards more responsible storytelling.
Despite the unsettling revelations about Septa Unella's original fate, Hannah Waddingham's career has flourished, demonstrating her resilience and talent beyond the confines of Westeros. As fans reflect on the legacy of Game of Thrones, it serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical storytelling and the impact it can have on audiences.
