Lena Headey, the celebrated actress best known for her iconic role as Cersei Lannister in Game of Thrones, has returned to the forefront of popular culture with her latest project. She now headlines the new Netflix western drama The Abandons, which has quickly become a binge-watch favourite since its release.
What is The Abandons about?
The series is a seven-part drama set in the 1850s American Old West, focusing on conflicts between outlaw groups. Headey takes the lead role of Fiona Nolan, a devout Catholic woman who has adopted four orphans. Her character's new life in Oregon is thrown into turmoil when she clashes with the formidable Constance Van Ness, played by Gillian Anderson, who lays claim to Fiona's land.
The narrative is driven by two crimes, a life-altering secret, a star-crossed romance, and the fierce battle over a valuable property. The impressive ensemble cast also includes Nick Robinson, Diana Silvers, and Aisling Franciosi.
Lena Headey's Career Journey
Headey's path to stardom began unconventionally. She was born in Bermuda in 1973 to Yorkshire policeman John Headey and his wife Susan, before the family moved back to England when she was five, settling in Somerset. Her first professional acting break came at age 17 at the Royal National Theatre, leading to her film debut in 1992's Waterland.
She built a steady career throughout the 1990s with roles in projects like The Remains of the Day and Band of Gold. The 2000s saw her in bigger films such as 300 and the TV series Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. However, it was her portrayal of the cunning and ruthless Cersei Lannister in HBO's global phenomenon Game of Thrones that cemented her status as a household name worldwide.
Following the fantasy epic's conclusion, Headey has appeared in Gunpowder Milkshake and White House Plumbers, with The Abandons marking a major leading role in a television series since Thrones.
Personal Life and Family
Away from the camera, Headey's personal life has drawn significant interest. She has been married to Ozark actor Marc Menchaca since 2022. The couple began dating in 2020 and tied the knot in a private Italian ceremony attended by former Game of Thrones co-stars including Peter Dinklage and Sophie Turner. Menchaca is renowned for his role as Russ Langmore in Ozark.
Prior to this, Headey was married to musician Peter Loughran from 2007 to 2013. She has two children: a son, Wylie, with Loughran, and a daughter, Teddy, with filmmaker Dan Cadan. Headey and Cadan were engaged but had parted ways by 2019.
Speaking Frankly on Postnatal Depression
Headey has been openly candid about her mental health, particularly her experience with postnatal depression. She has revealed that she was struggling during the filming of the first season of Game of Thrones, finding some of the more distressing scenes particularly challenging to film while navigating new motherhood.
The actress sought professional help, which she credits with helping her manage her postpartum depression. Her willingness to speak about this struggle has resonated with many fans, highlighting her resilience in balancing a demanding career on one of the world's biggest TV shows with her personal challenges.
With The Abandons now streaming on Netflix, Lena Headey continues to captivate audiences, demonstrating the formidable talent and personal strength that have defined her career and life beyond the screen.
