Brave Facts About Kit Harington, The (Former) King In The North

Ever since the premiere of Game of Thrones, Kit Harington has made a name for himself in the film and television industry. Though the titular role of Jon Snow may have brought him mainstream success, he has continued to prove himself as an A-lister at the top of his game through other roles, such as in Pompeii (2014), Brimstone (2016), and The Death & Life of John F. Donovan (2018). From his real birth name to his royal ancestry, check out 39 courageous facts about the one time King in the North.


1. European Through and Through

Though born in England to two English parents, Harington’s ancestry goes well beyond Old Blighty’s borders. He has Welsh, Scottish, Northern Irish, Dutch, German, French, and Spanish roots.

Kit Harington facts

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2. Preparing for the Role

Harington trained for months to get in shape for his role in 2014’s Pompeii, to the point that he believes he suffered from body dysmorphia while filming. He would work out three times a day for six days a week, until the point of exhaustion.

Kit Harington facts

Pompeii (2014), TriStar Pictures

3. “We Are All Born Mad”

Harington only grew interested in acting as a teenager. In fact, he only tried his hand at school plays after seeing a performance of Waiting for Godot when he was 14 years old.

Kit Harington facts

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4. Good Hair Day

There’s no denying that Harington is known for his signature long black locks, which he donned for eight straight seasons of Game of Thrones. However, did you know that his hair in the pilot episode is actually a wig? It was only after this first episode was filmed that his hair was long enough to go au naturel.

Daenerys Targaryen facts

Game of Thrones, HBO