Christopher Catesby Harington began his professional trajectory in 2009 by securing the lead role of Albert Narracott in the West End production of War Horse. This initial stage success preceded his transition into international television, where he became best known for portraying Jon Snow in the HBO fantasy series Game of Thrones, a role spanning from 2011 until 2019.
Formative Years and Education
Born in 1986 in Acton, United Kingdom, Harington attended Southfield Primary School before relocating to Worcestershire in 1998 to enroll at The Chantry School. His academic background in performance arts includes study at Worcester Sixth Form College from 2003 to 2005. He subsequently returned to London to study at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, graduating in 2008.
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Beyond his work on Game of Thrones, Harington has maintained a consistent presence in theatre and television. He appeared in various West End productions, including The Children's Monologues, The Vote, and Doctor Faustus. In 2017, he developed and produced the BBC drama Gunpowder, in which he played Robert Catesby. His television credits extend to roles in Modern Love, Extrapolations, and the series Industry, which began in 2024.
Film and Voice Work
Harington's film career includes roles in Silent Hill: Revelation, Pompeii, and Testament of Youth. He portrayed Dane Whitman in the Marvel Studios film Eternals in 2021. Furthermore, he provided the voice for the character Eret in the How to Train Your Dragon film series, contributing to the entries released between 2014 and 2019.
Fast facts
- Born: 1986, Acton, United Kingdom
- Education: The Chantry School, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama
- Television breakthrough: Game of Thrones (2011–2019)
- Notable stage debut: War Horse (2009)
- Marvel Cinematic Universe role: Dane Whitman in Eternals (2021)
- Professional debut: 2009
Questions readers ask
What was Kit Harington's first major television role?
His first major television role was Jon Snow in the HBO series Game of Thrones.
Did Harington work on animated films?
Yes, he voiced the character Eret in the How to Train Your Dragon film series.
Achievements
- Worked as stage actor, film actor and television actor
