Kristian Nairn thinks Ed Sheeran’s ‘Game of Thrones’ cameo took viewers out of the show’s world.
The 42-year-old actor – who played Hodor until Season Six of the HBO fantasy drama when the character was killed off – has complained about the impact of famous faces appearing on the programme.
Speaking to The Huffington Post, he said: "I’m not a fan of the cameos in ‘Game of Thrones.’ I don’t like them. I think it’s stupid. I don’t mind going on the record on that. I just think it takes you right out of the world. Especially Ed Sheeran. I was like, ‘Why is Ed Sheeran here?’ I mean, Ed Sheeran’s great. He’s a great guy, great musician, but why is he in ‘Game of Thrones?’ "
Although the ‘A-Team’ singer’s cameo – in which he played a Lannister soldier and sang a song to Arya Stark (Maisie Williams) – came after Nairn had left, it’s still rubbed him the wrong way.
He ranted: "I’m not saying I’m not a fan of Ed Sheeran. I’m being tactful here, but just not a fan of the cameo. I think most people would agree with me there. It was a big snap to reality.
"It’s like, ‘What? What?’… It’s a fantasy show. We’re all caught in this amazing world and spend so much time and money and talent to create, and all of a sudden there’s a pop star? What?"
The programme – which is based on George R. R. Martin’s ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’ novel series – has had a number of cameos over the years, including the likes of metal group Mastodon.
While Nairn doesn’t like these moments as a rule, he did admit to enjoying Sigur Rós’ appearance at Joffrey’s wedding in season four.
He explained: "[Sigur Rós] kind of got away with it because they’re so quirky … They’re almost like ‘Game of Thrones’ world in real life.
"They’re so elven and spiritual. I think that works, but apart from that — I mean, I understand why people want to be in it, but just no. Go away."