Kristian Nairn, the towering actor famous for his iconic role as Hodor in Game of Thrones, is trading the frozen landscapes of Westeros for the glittering dance floor of Strictly Come Dancing. The 48-year-old Northern Irish star has been confirmed as one of the contestants for the 2024 season of the hit BBC show.
Known for his gentle giant persona on-screen, Nairn is now set to surprise audiences with his fancy footwork. The actor, who also has a background as a DJ, admitted he’s both nervous and excited about the challenge. "I’ve spent years standing still as Hodor, so this will be a complete 180," he joked.
From Westeros to Waltzes
Nairn’s casting marks another high-profile addition to Strictly Come Dancing, which has previously featured stars from sports, music, and television. His participation is expected to draw in fans of Game of Thrones, as well as dance enthusiasts eager to see how he adapts to the ballroom.
Standing at 6’10", Nairn will undoubtedly stand out among the contestants—both literally and figuratively. His height could pose a unique challenge for the professional dancers, but insiders suggest his natural rhythm and stage presence might give him an edge.
What Can Fans Expect?
While Nairn has kept tight-lipped about which dances he’ll be performing, sources close to the show hint that his routines could incorporate nods to his fantasy series roots. "There’s talk of a dramatic paso doble or even a Game of Thrones-themed group dance," an insider revealed.
With rehearsals set to begin soon, Nairn has already started training to ensure he’s ready for the gruelling schedule. "I’m not underestimating how tough this will be, but I’m determined to give it my all," he said.
Strictly Come Dancing 2024 is expected to premiere in September, with the full lineup of celebrities to be announced in the coming weeks.
