'[My storyline] is kind of mirroring what's happening in real life, in every industry right now.'
The women of Game of Thrones battle no end of horror in the fantasy epic, fighting sexual harassment, sexism and political machinations to find their place in Westeros. Sound familiar? Well, you’re not the only one who’s noticed as cast member Sophie Turner has drawn parallels between Game of Thrones and the #MeToo movement.
In an interview with Screen Daily, the actress delved into her character Sansa Stark’s harrowing and sometimes difficult-to-watch storyline which includes her rape at the hands of Ramsay Bolton, frequent imprisonment and political relationships. While she started as one of the show’s weakest characters, she’s now become a fully fledged avenging angel ready to take her place on the world’s stage.
‘It’s funny the way [my storyline] is kind of mirroring what’s happening in real life, in every industry right now,’ Sophie said. ‘It’s really interesting how all of these women who were subjected to a lot of horror and oppression are taking a stand against the people who have done this to them. I think that’s why I connected with the #MeToo movement so much. Not just because of being a woman and obviously being a feminist, but also that character.’
Sophie Turner is a staunch supporter of the TIMES UP and #MeToo movement, as she previously helped fundraise for TIMES UP’s legal defense fund on Instagram and posted a message ahead of the all-black Golden Globes to show her solidarity with those affected. (She wasn’t actually in attendance, however.)
Sophie reflected on her character’s arc, saying, ‘It’s a really powerful message, the fact that she went through all of those things and she’s come out the other side. She’s used everything she’s learnt up until now to her benefit. She endured so much horror and really was a prisoner season-by-season. She took all of that, and now she has become stronger for it.’
The #MeToo movement has fiercely raged on, with this year’s recent Cannes festival led by Cate Blanchett becoming one of the most political yet and actors like Frances McDormand and Brie Larson calling for greater diversity in the industry. As women and their allies shine a light on the dark parts of Hollywood, Sophie also feels that entertainment needs to both respond to and also be a getaway from reality.
She said, ‘Our role as filmmakers is to hold a mirror up to society. At the same time, I think it’s very important to have that escapism. That’s why Game Of Thrones is such a wonderful show. It provides both of those things.’
The next series of Game of Thrones will be its final run, with just six episodes to wrap up the mammoth story. While a release date hasn’t been formally been announced, the series has finished filming and will be screened at some point next year.
