James Norton on Ormund Hightower: ‘We went big and bold’
Actor James Norton discusses his role as the new antagonist Ormund Hightower in Season 3 of 'House of the Dragon,' describing the character as a 'bully' for Rhaenyra. Norton explains that with limited source material, he and the creators had creative freedom to develop Ormund, focusing on his sensitivity to smell as a key character trait.
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This interview offers fans and industry enthusiasts insights into the creative process behind a popular television series, providing a deeper understanding of character development and an actor's approach to bringing a role to life.
Season 3 of House of the Dragon introduces a new antagonist, Ormund Hightower, played with controlled ferocity by James Norton. Ormund is a particular adversary for Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy), Norton says over a video call from London.
“They do not come into contact with each other. He is a bully in Rhaenyra’s abstract awareness. When you meet someone, the sting is often taken out of their bite. Ormund and Rhaenyra are not physically in the same space. Rhaenyra projects onto him and he probably becomes more terrifying as a result.”
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