6. Paul Kaye - Thoros of Myr
Kayes casting is sort of familiar to Crooks insofar as they both play a lot of characters who appear to be teetering on the edge of madness. Yet there is an important difference; the madness Crook plays is nearly always benign, whereas Kaye seems to play a sort of powerful madness, something that could take hold of a room. As such, Id go as far as to argue that he is perfect for the part of Thoros. Thoros is a priest of Rhllor, but unlike Melisandre has never been too devout. The hedonistic pursuits he became accustomed to in the court of King Robert have put paid to his fanaticism, turning him into a hedonistic figure prone to drink and debauchery. This corresponds perfectly into Kayes most obvious skillset. He is first and foremost a comedy man, his considerable abilities showcased in past turns as shocking caricatures such as Dennis Pennis and Mike Strutter. Both these parts required a certain jolting manner as well as the need for a dominating presence and strong charisma, attributes integral to the character of Thoros. Yet a key part of the character is that he remains a formidable figure, despite his chequered past. He is gregarious (he used to be a court favourite) as well as a powerful sorcerer (hes a war hero who fights with a flaming sword). Such a man plays perfectly into Kayes hands; whilst he is a figure of fun, his comedy is often of a powerful, intimidating sort. Kayes performances tend to completely own the room; witness the
Strutter live show, and tell me that this man is nothing if not imposing. His audience cannot run away, hes far too daunting a prospect. Such raw magnetism will be needed. Whilst Ive yet to convince of his ability to convey dramatic nuance- something that will become increasingly important as the season rolls on- I would argue that he is certainly a very good, interesting choice for the part of Thoros. Only time will tell if he proves to be a great one.