IN CONVERSATION WITH EWAN MITCHELL
interview by JANA LETONJA
Ewan Mitchell has quietly become one of the most compelling actors of his generation. Known for disappearing completely into his roles, the Derbyshire-born performer has built a reputation for intense, transformative work across television and film, from his breakthrough role as Osferth in The Last Kingdom to his critically acclaimed portrayal of Prince Aemond Targaryen in HBO’s global phenomenon House of the Dragon. As the fantasy epic prepares just returned for its highly anticipated third season, Ewan finds himself at the center of one of television’s most passionate fandoms while simultaneously expanding his range through an impressive slate of projects, including Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights, Gareth Evans’ A Colt Is My Passport, Yutong Bai’s The Way of the Runner, and Justine Triet’s upcoming psychological thriller Fonda.
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You’ve developed a reputation for completely disappearing into your characters. What is the first thing you look for when approaching a new role?
I believe work breeds work. There has to be at least one element that excites me. It could be the character, creatives or even a montage sequence. I want to develop characters rich in detail and exciting to watch.
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Prince Aemond Targaryen has become one of the most talked-about characters in House of the Dragon. What do you think audiences find so fascinating about him?
He walks the line between predictable and unpredictable. Like a good sandwich. Consistent flavours with surprising elements you want to sink your teeth into.
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Aemond is often viewed as both villain and victim depending on the audience’s perspective. How do you personally understand him?
He wants to see victim become victor. He’s always fighting to not be forgotten. Dedicated to plastering his name into the history books, even if that means substituting ink with the blood of his enemies.
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As House of the Dragon just premiered its third season, what has been the most rewarding part of playing the character over such a long period?
It allows you to really sit in moments with the character. Even when we’ve finished a season, I'm thinking about the next, to know you can really take your time in your character’s evolution and leave no road unexplored.
The scale of the Game of Thrones universe comes with immense fan attention. How have you navigated becoming part of such a passionate global franchise?
It means the world to me Aemond has had such an impact within the fanbase. I take it and use it all as motivation.
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You’re also working with acclaimed filmmakers such as Gareth Evans and Justine Triet. What excites you most about collaborating with directors who have such distinct creative voices?
I just want to help realise their visions and to completely comfortably surrender myself to such visionaries, having that unspoken dialogue, knowing exactly what they want and that you can deliver that for them.
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Fonda marks Justine Triet’s first English-language feature. What can you say about that experience?
Working with Justine has been a masterclass in filmmaking and collaboration. Having so much faith in me that I can go to places and discover the character, it’s so gratifying being able to give a whole range of performances she can piece together in the edit.
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Looking back at your journey from The Last Kingdom to where you are today, what have been the most important lessons you’ve learned about acting?
I feel like I’m still too young in my career to be offering advice, but every single set I step onto, whether it be other cast or creatives, I can’t help but feel inspired. I’m always excited to be on another one ASAP. The most brilliant results come from dedication and perseverance from every aspect.
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You’ve maintained a relatively private public profile despite your growing success. Has that been a deliberate choice?
I want the work to speak for itself. The less people know about me, the more believable each character is.
What inspires you creatively outside of acting—whether it’s literature, music, art, or everyday life?
People showing up for something. Whether it be for themselves, or for their friends or family. Showing up and being present.
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As you look ahead to the next stage of your career, what kinds of stories or challenges are you most eager to pursue?
I want to be pushed by creatives, driven by stories and challenged by characters. I think more often than not, the most exciting characters to watch are the ones actors are most excited to play.
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TEAM CREDITS:
talent EWAN MITCHELL
photography KOSMAS PAVLOS
styling DAVEY SUTTON at A-FRAME AGENCY
grooming BRADY LEA at A-FRAME AGENCY
lighting director LUKE JOHNSON
post production ALEXANDRA HEINDL
styling assistance EMILIA ZENTNER
editor TIMI LETONJA
interview JANA LETONJA
cover design ARTHUR ROELOFFZEN
