Fans spent years watching Owen Teale bring the stern Ser Alliser Thorne to life in Game of Thrones, but a recent visit to Turkey revealed a much softer side of the actor. While attending the 4th International Digital Film Festival Istanbul, Teale was surprised with a performance of the iconic Game of Thrones theme inside Istanbul’s historic Serefiye Cistern. The moment left the veteran actor emotional and created a memory he says he’ll never forget.
Quick read:
- Owen Teale received a surprise musical tribute.
- The actor became emotional during the performance.
- He called it the best rendition he’d ever heard.
A surprise performance brought tears to Owen Teale’s eyes
Teale traveled to Istanbul after winning Best Actor for his performance in Something Pointless at the 4th International Digital Film Festival Istanbul. During a visit to the historic Serefiye Cistern, musicians surprised him by performing the Game of Thrones theme on traditional instruments.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency, the actor admitted he was overwhelmed by the experience.
“My eyes filled with tears because it was the most beautiful rendition of the Game of Thrones theme music I have ever heard in my life.”
Teale explained that while he couldn’t identify all of the instruments being played, the performance struck a deep emotional chord.
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BAFTA-winning “Game of Thrones” actor Owen Teale moved to tears by surprise performance of series’ theme at Istanbul’s historic Serefiye Cistern, calling it a memory he would cherish for the rest of his life
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— Türkiye Today (@turkiyetodaycom) October 22, 2026
The actor later added:
“I will cherish this memory for the rest of my life.”
For someone who spent years associated with one of television’s biggest fantasy franchises, it was clearly a reminder of just how much the series continues to resonate around the world.
The Game of Thrones star explored Istanbul’s historic landmarks
Following the emotional performance, Teale continued sightseeing across some of Istanbul’s most famous locations. According to the report, he visited the Grand Bazaar, Cagaloglu Hammam, and Sultanahmet Square as part of his cultural tour.
The actor also praised Turkish audiences during his visit.
According to Anadolu Agency, Teale described Turkish viewers as warm-hearted people who appreciate authentic storytelling and meaningful narratives.
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