Game of Thrones boasted a host of remarkable characters that had a lasting presence on the audience’s memory. Some were brave and honourable like Jon Snow, while there were some who were downright scary. One of these scary ones included the silent knight Ser Ilyn Payne. He was a part of some of the most pivotal scenes of the show, including Ned Stark’s execution. The character was played by English guitarist, singer and songwriter Wilko Johnson.
Born John Peter Wilkinson, the music pioneer was instrumental to the punk movement of the 70s. He was the original lead guitarist for the Essex pub rock band, Dr Feelgood. The punk rock icon made his television debut when he joined the cast of Thrones for its first season back in 2011.
As with George R.R. Martin’s original books, Payne was originally intended to have a much more prominent role as the series went on. Unfortunately, HBO was forced to phase out the character following Johnson’s declining health.
The musician announced he had been diagnosed with late-stage pancreatic cancer in 2013. Season two, episode nine, Blackwater, marked his last appearance in the series. Thankfully, the musician and occasional actor has since made a full recovery. At the age of 73, he has been able to continue his music career.
How do you think the story would have changed if Payne had stayed throughout the series? Tell us in the comments below!
