The world of television has seen many intriguing characters, but few have generated as much conversation as the character of King Joffrey from the cultural phenomenon Game of Thrones. Jack Gleeson, the actor behind this memorable role, etched an unforgettable image in our minds with his portrayal of the ruthless young king.
But today, fans find it hard to recognize this talented Irish actor in his latest venture. Gleeson’s drastic transformation for a new role in a BBC series is making waves and taking fans by surprise.
From Game of Thrones to The Famous Five: Gleeson’s Remarkable Transition
Stepping out from the dark shadow of King Joffrey, Jack Gleeson is embracing a new character, light-years away from the iron throne. The actor, known for performing as the golden-haired, power-hungry king in Game of Thrones, is sporting an unrecognizable look in his latest project with the BBC.
The upcoming series is an adaptation of Enid Blyton’s beloved children’s book series, The Famous Five, in which Gleeson plays a character named Wentworth.
In the newly released promotional photo, Gleeson has brown hair and a mustache, starkly contrasting with the blonde, boyish Joffrey. Dressed in an entirely different style, Gleeson’s transformation has left fans astounded. His new appearance is a far cry from his portrayal of Joffrey, so much so that one might have difficulty recognizing him.
If you want to gauge the extent of this transformation, check out the first look photo released by the BBC below.
Dive into the Adventure: The Famous Five Comes to Life
Enid Blyton’s The Famous Five is a cherished series that has thrilled young readers with its tales of adventure and mystery. The series centers on the exciting journey of five young explorers who encounter treacherous adventures, uncover profound mysteries, brave, extraordinary danger, and reveal astonishing secrets. The upcoming TV adaptation is based on Blyton’s series of 21 novels and short stories penned between 1942 and 1963.
Joining Gleeson in this adventurous ride is an ensemble cast that includes Diaana Babnicova as George, Elliott Rose as Julian, Kit Rakusen as Dick, Flora Jacoby Richards as Anne, Ann Akinjirin as Fanny, James Lance as Quentin, and Diana Quick as Mrs. Wentworth. The role of the group’s loyal dog, Timmy, is performed by a Bearded Collie Cross named Kip.
The production is currently ongoing in the UK, but the series’ release date remains a secret.
A Team of Exceptional Talent: The Famous Five Cast
Executive producer Tim Kirkby couldn’t contain his excitement about the talented cast. He spoke highly of the young performers, who, along with Kip, are breathing life into these beloved characters in a novel and contemporary manner.
He added, “Together with the brilliant Jack, Ann, James, and Diana, we can’t wait to bring these thrilling, action-packed, family-friendly adventures to the screen.”
A Look at Gleeson’s Past and Future Roles
Jack Gleeson became a household name with his performance as Joffrey Baratheon during the first four seasons of Game of Thrones. After bidding goodbye to the series in 2014, he took a break from acting. During his hiatus, Gleeson mentioned considering a shift toward academia.
However, the lure of the spotlight brought him back to television in 2020 with a role in BBC’s Out of Her Mind. Gleeson’s talent was further showcased in the 2021 film Rebecca’s Boyfriend. Looking ahead, he is slated to feature alongside heavyweights like Liam Neeson, Kerry Condon, and Ciaran Hinds in the thriller In the Land of Saints and Sinners.
The Puzzle of Filming Amidst the SAG-AFTRA Strike
The current strike by the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the Writers Guild of America has dampened most film and television productions.
Yet, specific projects, including The Famous Five, have found ways to continue production. The specifics of how The Famous Five is filming amid the strike are not entirely known, but it’s speculated that the series follows similar strategies as HBO’s House of the Dragon.
The latter, featuring UK-based actors, can continue filming by employing contracts from a local union called Equity, which isn’t part of SAG-AFTRA.
Gleeson’s dramatic transformation, acting prowess, and the rich narrative of Enid Blyton’s The Famous Five promise an exciting series for viewers. Fans worldwide eagerly await its release, ready to embrace the actor in his new avatar.
