Actress Opens Up About Growth, Challenges, and Learning on Set of the Iconic Series
Sophie Turner, best known for her role as Sansa Stark in HBO’s fantasy epic Game of Thrones, recently reflected on how the show shaped her both personally and professionally. Appearing on the Dish podcast, the Joan star shared candid insights about her nine-year journey on the series and the unexpected life lessons she picked up along the way.
“Game of Thrones Was the Best Acting Class I Could Ever Ask For”
Now 29, Turner began filming Game of Thrones as a young teenager and spent most of her formative years growing up on set. Despite her long-running role, she admitted she’s never fully watched the series.
“Everything I learned came from Game of Thrones — and a little bit from my parents,” Turner said, acknowledging that the show was her first and most important acting school. Without formal training, the actress credited her experience working alongside seasoned performers as a major learning opportunity. “It felt like I had won a competition,” she said. “Being surrounded by such incredible talent taught me everything.”
Why She Finds Watching Herself “Horrible”
Turner also confessed to avoiding her own performances, explaining that she finds it difficult to watch herself on screen.
“It’s horrible,” she admitted. “Watching myself often sends me into a bout of depression.” This aversion, she says, is one of the reasons she has never been able to sit through the full series, despite starring in it for nearly a decade.
Graphic Scenes and Early Sex Education
In a lighthearted yet revealing moment, Turner joked that she received much of her sex education from watching the show’s more explicit scenes.
“I definitely got my sex education from Game of Thrones — more than enough!” she said, referencing the famously graphic content that the series became known for.
Despite its darker and often brutal themes, Turner spoke fondly of the family-like bond she formed with the cast and crew. “It was great. We all were a family,” she shared.
Conclusion
From learning acting on set to navigating the emotional challenges of fame, Sophie Turner’s journey through Game of Thrones was nothing short of transformative. As she continues to take on bold new roles, fans can expect her unique blend of raw talent and lived experience to shine through in every performance.
