We had been warned that fans may need therapy after watching Game of Thrones Season 8. Seems like the same holds true for the stars as well. Page Six reported that Jon Snow actor Kit Harington has checked into a ‘luxury rehab’ in Connecticut to deal with stress and alcoholism for almost a month now.
Harington’s representative later clarified in a statement that it is not a ‘rehab’ but a “wellness retreat”, and he is utilizing his break after the wrap of Game of Thrones to deal with some “personal issues”.
The scene where Jon Snow stabs Daenerys Targaryen had Harington in tears during the table read.
The scene where Jon Snow stabs Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones Season 8 finale ‘The Iron Throne’ had Harington in tears during the table read. The final season of Game of Thrones has been shocking for many reasons, and Harington’s character was right in the middle of one such huge twist – Jon Snow killing his Queen and lover Daenerys Targaryen. In the recently-released behind-the-scenes documentary on the making of this season titled Game of Thrones: The Last Watch, Harington is seen breaking down when this particular scene was narrated in the table read.
Harington has also spoken about how emotional he felt about Game of Thrones ending – and has repeatedly mentioned breaking down. It does seem the emotionally harrowing nature of Season 8, along with the fact of it being the final season, finally became too much to handle.
According to Page Six, Harington is practising mindful meditation and receiving cognitive behavioural therapy and psychological coaching to better deal with stress and negative emotions in this health retreat called Privé-Swiss which costs upward of $120,000 a month. The publication also cited local sources who spotted him visiting a bookstore in the adjacent area and his wife, Rose Leslie is said to be extremely supportive of his decision.
Kit Harington with wife Rose Leslie in the New York Premiere of Game of Thrones Season 8.
The past year has been full of ups and downs for Harington. While he married his longtime friend and lover Leslie, he has also been mired in controversies related to alcoholism and irresponsible behaviour. He has a history of depression, also due to Game of Thrones-related reasons. Harington suddenly came under intense media and public glare after his character was killed off in Season 5 finale, and struggled to cope with the stress. That was the first time he sought therapy.
It is always difficult to let go of things that have previously defined us, and Harington is no different. We wish him health and happiness for the future!
