Sophie Turner found herself in a uniquely awkward position on her latest film set: playing a lover to Kit Harington, her formerGame of Thronesco-star and, in a way, a brother figure. The reunion, six years after the epic fantasy series concluded, wasn’t filled with nostalgic ease, but with a surprising level of discomfort.
The new Gothic horror,The Dreadful, a reimagining of a Japanese classic, plunges Turner and Harington into a 15th-century world of isolation and desperate choices. The story centers on Anne and her mother-in-law, struggling to survive on the fringes of society when a figure from their past – Jago, played by Harington – unexpectedly returns.
Turner described the experience as “dreadful,” a sentiment born from years of on-screen siblinghood with Harington. Having known him since she was thirteen, the lines between acting and reality blurred, making intimate scenes particularly unsettling. It wasn’t the craft of acting itself that proved difficult, but the deeply ingrained familiarity with her co-star.
Despite the initial awkwardness, Turner embraced a new level of creative control as an executive producer on the film. This role allowed her to shape her character and the narrative, a welcome change from simply interpreting a role as presented. She relished the agency, enjoying input on everything from wardrobe to hairstyle.
The trailer forThe Dreadfulsparked conversation, hinting at the complex dynamic between Anne and Jago. Turner had even preemptively apologized toGame of Thronesfans for the on-screen intimacy, acknowledging the strangeness of the situation for everyone involved. The initial read-through of the script, filled with kissing and more, prompted a worried message from Harington himself.
Harington, for his part, admitted to needing an apple box to reach Turner during kissing scenes, playfully acknowledging the height difference. However, he emphasized the ease with which their long-standing friendship rekindled on set, creating a familial atmosphere that ultimately made the challenging scenes manageable.
Beyond this unusual reunion, both actors have continued to forge distinct paths. Turner is set to embody Lara Croft in an upcoming series, while Harington has explored complex roles in financial thrillers. Yet, the shadow ofGame of Thronesremains, and both have staunchly defended the show’s controversial ending against harsh criticism.
Turner, in particular, expressed satisfaction with Sansa Stark’s ultimate fate – becoming Queen of the North – a conclusion she felt was earned and fitting. She acknowledged the passionate, and sometimes vitriolic, reaction from fans, but stood firm in her belief that the writers and crew deserved respect for their decade-long dedication to the series.
The experience of filmingThe Dreadful, despite its initial discomfort, proved to be a unique and valuable one for both Turner and Harington. It was a testament to their professional commitment and the enduring strength of a friendship forged in the fires of Westeros.The Dreadfulis set for release in cinemas on February 20.
