If there's one TV show that can catapult actors' careers, its HBO's massively popular fantasy drama Game of Thrones. Watched by millions of loyal fans, Game actors like Peter Dinklage, Finn Jones, and Sophie Turner have all gone on to major TV and film roles. And now it looks like lighting struck again, as actor Joe Dempsie (aka Arya's long missing friend Gendry) has been cast in an upcoming FOX series.
According to Variety, Joe Dempsie has just accrued a role in Fox Network Group's upcoming spy thriller Deep State. He'll be starring alongside British actor Mark Strong (Kingsman, Green Lantern), who will be leading the new series that will air both internationally and locally on FOX. And while this is exciting news for everyone's second favorite Game of Thrones bastard, it does beg the question: should we worry about Gendry?
We'd previously reported that Joe Dempsie will (finally) be returning to Game of Thrones in the upcoming seventh season, with Gendry having been missing since back in Season 3. The last of Robert Baratheon's bastards, Gendry could actually hold a great deal of power in the realm, despite his very long absence. But with both Stannis and Renly dead, Gendry actually might have a fairly strong claim to the throne. And that spells trouble for the new pyromaniac Cersei.
The news of Joe Dempsie's long awaited return to Game of Thrones came a few months ago, as eager fans spotted the actor in an airport near the Season 7 set. Fans were collectively thrilled, as Gendry's long hiatus has been one of the outstanding loose ends for the series. But with Joe Dempsie now committed to a new series, could this mean bad news for Gendry? The size of his role in Season 7 is still a total mystery, but I am starting to feel some deja vu here.
If you recall, Rickon Stark had a similar hiatus from Game of Thrones, and returned for a few episodes in Season 6 before being promptly killed off (the dude should have zigzagged). Will Gendry fall victim to a similar fate? We'll have to wait and see.
Gendry was last seen in Season 3, being tortured by Melisandre for his blood, which was necessary in her blood magic. Davos the Onion Knight took umbrage on this practice, and set the poor bastard free. He was last scene floating on boat away from Dragonstone, although he admits that he doesn't know how to swim.
Gendry's role in the overall narrative of the series also feels less important now that Dany is finally sailing to Westeros. Because even if someone were to use Gendry as political leverage, Dany's claim to the Iron Throne is far more significant. It was her blood that ruled before Robert's rebellion, as well as his eventual crowning.
Game of Thrones will return to HBO on July 16, 2017. We'll be sure to update you on Deep State as more details become public. And be sure to check out our full summer premiere list, and plan your next binge watch.
