King Joffrey actor Jack Gleeson on why Game Of Thrones made him quit doing blockbusters

He shot to global fame as psychotic Joffrey Baratheon, but actor Jack Gleeson wants to move on to smaller things

Jack Gleeson as Joffrey in Game of Thrones

FORMER Game Of Thrones star Jack Gleeson says he tried to make his psychopathic character Joffrey Baratheon more sympathetic.

A few things stood out about the character on paper,” Gleeson told Confidential. “His green eyes, flaxen blonde hair and a dashing aura. I tried to embody that kind of self important arrogance.”

He added: “I also tried to find the more sympathetic side of Joffrey. It’s quite a small side and not one that people would necessarily see, but there was a side. He was insecure, he wanted a stable family environment, and he wanted to be loved. I enjoyed playing that side — and the crazy psychopathic stuff.”

Gleeson, 23, will visit the Supanova Pop Culture Exhibition at the Melbourne Showgrounds on April 15 to 17.

“They can be quite surreal, but also fun and fulfilling. Game Of Thrones is such a massive show that, even if you go to the premieres, you don’t feel like you’re connecting to the people who really love and enjoy it.”

Gleeson left Game Of Thrones two years ago after his character was killed off. He completed his university studies in theology and philosophy, but also decided to quit acting.

“I’m in a small theatre company. We produce, write and perform our own work. I prefer that kind of thing, collaborating with friends, than acting in a blockbuster. I could change my mind in a year, or a day. I’m 23. I’m quite open to change.”

He added: “My whole life, I wanted to be a big famous successful actor. I suppose something just changed. I still love acting, and I see myself acting in the future, but that kind of spark is not there anymore, and I don’t know why.”