Game Of Thrones' Nathalie Emmanuel says show 'could have done better' on diversity
Game Of Thrones star Nathalie Emmanuel believes the show “could have done better” in picking a diverse cast.
The actress, who played former slave Missandei, said criticism of the hit series’ lack of representation was justified.
Emmanuel, 30, is hopeful that the criticism directed at the programme will lead to better, broader casting in the next global hit show.
Addressing the matter at the British Film Institute BFI Luminous event in London, she commented on the criticism of the HBO series, stating: “I think it was fair.”
“It’s something that they could have done better on,” Emmanuel added.
Game Of Thrones saw her role expanded throughout the show, with Missandei progressing from being a slave girl to the trusted counsellor of Emilia Clarke’s character, Daenerys Targaryen.
Her eventual prominence triggered a major and catastrophic plot point in the final series.
Emmanuel said: “They really gave the characters of colour they did have some great stories and scenes to play.
“In the books, my character isn’t really prominent.
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“They really gave me some beautiful things to do and portray with my amazing friend and colleague Jacob [Anderson, who played Grey Worm].
“I felt really supported and looked after in that respect. But I think it’s important to note that they could have done better there.
“Hopefully that criticism will be heeded for future shows of that magnitude.
“That’s only a positive thing, so I’m excited to see what those conversations have started.”
Emmanuel said the end of the show has been bittersweet, and she will miss the project and the friends she made while working on the series.
The star believes that her new acting opportunities are owed to the power of Game Of Thrones.
She said: “It will always be bittersweet because we had such an amazing time and amazing experience with one another. We bonded for life.
“But I’m excited. I feel really happy to see what other opportunities are out there. Game Of Thrones changed my life, I was working in retail when I got that job.
“It’s always going to be sad not going to work with my friends.”
Additional reporting by Press Association
