Game of Thrones won't be back on the air for another nine months but, like they did with the second season, HBO will start shooting the third in the middle of July just after a few key cast members make the trip to San Diego for Comic-Con. And with the return to Westeros (and Qarth) imminent, there are plenty of previously announced parts that still need to be filled. Minus one. The latest actor to officially join the ever expanding and almost always perfectly cast ensemble is Clive Russell.
WinterIsComing.net reports that the English-born and Scottish-raised Russell has caught the role of Brynden 'The Blackfish' Tully. Even though the first name might not cause much of a stir, although he's certainly a well trained and experienced thespian, the second is sure to resonate with fans of the both the television and book series. The Blackfish is Catelyn Stark's uncle, viewers should recognize the last name, and a fan favorite from the source material. Without saying too much, Brynden Tully is a wise old(er) man and skilled warrior who proves invaluable to Robb's continuing war efforts along with his yet to be cast nephew, Cat's brother Edmure.
Russell has appeared in many British television shows including Coronation Street and Cracker but has also turned up in a few features including Joe Johnston's The Wolfman. I remember him most, however, from his bit part in both of Guy Ritchie's Sherlock Holmes films as the river-boat owner Captain Tanner. He only shares the screen with Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law for minute or so in the first film but it's one of the funnier scenes. He looks like a perfect fit for the Game of Thrones universe and at 6'5" he should be an imposing figure. Family. Duty. Honor.
Game of Thrones will return with its third season April, 2013 on HBO. The series was created by David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, based on the “Song of Ice and Fire” saga by George R.R. Martin.
