When Finn Bennett was filming A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, he was supposed to be playing Aerion Targaryen, one of the story’s most arrogant and antagonistic figures. But even while staying in character, there was one problem: Peter Claffey’s performance as Dunk was so convincing that Bennett found himself rooting for him anyway.
In a recent interview with Cynosure Magazine, the actor revealed that one of Dunk’s speeches had such an impact on him that he briefly forgot he was supposed to dislike the future knight.
Quick read:
- Finn Bennett praised Peter Claffey’s performance.
- A Dunk speech impressed him on set.
- The actor said he’d follow Dunk into battle.
Peter Claffey’s performance broke through Aerion’s attitude
One of the strengths of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is Dunk’s ability to inspire loyalty despite his humble origins. According to Bennett, that quality wasn’t limited to the finished episodes.
Speaking to Cynosure Magazine, he recalled filming scenes in which Dunk addresses the noble houses of Westeros.
“I remember watching Peter Claffey in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms give speeches to the houses, the noble houses of Westeros, getting them to fight for him and his cause.”
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At the time, Bennett was standing in the background as Aerion.
“And I’m like somewhere in the back of shot being all surly and being like, ‘Oh, what a loser.’”
The problem, however, was that Claffey’s performance was having the exact effect Dunk was supposed to have.
Even Aerion’s actor wanted to follow Dunk
As the speech continued, Bennett found himself becoming genuinely invested in what Claffey was doing.
“And it was such a rousing speech.”
Then came the moment that perfectly captures why Dunk has become such a beloved character.
“And I remember just being like, ‘I’d fight for that guy any day.’”
It’s high praise considering it comes from a castmate who witnessed Claffey’s work firsthand throughout production.
The comment also speaks to one of the biggest reasons the series has resonated with audiences. Dunk isn’t a king, a dragonrider, or a great lord. His appeal comes from his sincerity, honor, and ability to inspire people around him.
Apparently, that includes some of the actors standing beside him on set.
Read next: Alleged A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Season 2 leak reveals major changes to Dunk and Egg’s story
