Brienne of Tarth is one of the most memorable characters in “Game of Thrones.” She is a towering warrior who defies the traditional roles of women in Westeros. This article covers who plays her, her exact height, her fate in the series, her relationship with Jaime Lannister, and the details about her family and heraldry.
Portrayed by the English actress Gwendoline Christie, Brienne broke barriers as the first female knight in the Seven Kingdoms. Her journey from a mocked outsider to the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard is a central arc in the series. The following sections provide a comprehensive breakdown of the character, the actress, and the key facts surrounding them.
Who Plays Brienne of Tarth?
The character of Brienne of Tarth is portrayed by Gwendoline Christie. Born on 28 October 1978, Christie is an English actress and model. She was cast in July 2011 for the show’s second season, a role that would become her breakout performance. Her height of 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) was a significant factor in her casting, as the character is described as exceptionally tall. Gwendoline Christie on IMDb offers a full look at her filmography.
Key Insights on Gwendoline Christie and Her Role
- Gwendoline Christie’s height (6’3″) is a key factor in her casting as the tall warrior Brienne. Her Wikipedia entry details her career and background.
- Brienne is the first female knight in the Seven Kingdoms, breaking gender norms.
- Her shield features the coat of arms of House Tarth: a sun and crescent moon.
- Brienne’s death in the show differs from the books (still alive in the books as of the latest release).
- Christie was nominated for an Emmy in 2019 for her portrayal of Brienne. The Emmy awards site confirms her nomination.
Snapshot Facts: Brienne of Tarth & Gwendoline Christie
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Character Name | Brienne of Tarth |
| Actress | Gwendoline Christie |
| Height (Character/Show) | ~6’6″ (1.98 m) |
| Height (Actress) | 6’3″ (1.91 m) |
| Father | Lord Selwyn Tarth |
| Shield Device | Sun and crescent moon (House Tarth) |
| Death (TV Show) | Alive at series end; does not die |
| Death (Books) | Still alive as of A Dance with Dragons |
| First Appearance | Game of Thrones Season 2 (2012) |
| Final Rank | Lord Commander of the Kingsguard |
Brienne is the only surviving daughter of Lord Selwyn Tarth, Lord of Evenfall Hall. Her mother died when she was a child. Unlike many other characters, her parentage is clearly defined.
How Tall Is Brienne of Tarth?
In the television series, Brienne of Tarth is portrayed as being approximately 6 feet 6 inches (1.98 meters) tall. This makes her one of the tallest characters in the show, towering over most men. The actress Gwendoline Christie stands at 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m), which is already very tall but is enhanced on screen with camera angles and footwear to give the impression of even greater height.
The books describe the character as “huge” and “ungainly,” but a specific height is never given. The show’s visual depiction of her height became a defining physical characteristic, reinforcing her outsider status and her physical prowess as a warrior. HBO’s official Game of Thrones page includes a character profile for Brienne.
Does Brienne of Tarth Die?
No, Brienne of Tarth does not die in the television series. She survives the Battle of Winterfell against the White Walkers and the destruction of King’s Landing. In the series finale, she is appointed to the small council as the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard by King Bran the Broken. This makes her the first woman to hold that position, a fitting end to her arc of seeking honor and respect.
In the books (A Song of Ice and Fire), Brienne’s fate is still uncertain. The series is unfinished, and her storyline has not reached its conclusion. In the show, her survival is confirmed.
What Is the Relationship Between Brienne and Jaime?
The relationship between Brienne of Tarth and Jaime Lannister is one of the most complex and beloved arcs in the series. It begins with them as captor and captive in Season 2, with Jaime escorting her through the Riverlands. Over time, mutual respect forms. He sees her honor and skill; she sees his capacity for change and redemption.
From Enemies to Lovers
Their relationship evolves from enemies to wary allies, then to trusted friends, and finally to lovers by Season 8. Although they are never officially wed, their bond is significant. Jaime knighted Brienne in Season 8, Episode 2, a moment of immense emotional weight where she earns the title “Brienne the White.” After Jaime dies, she honors him by writing an account of his deeds in the White Book, the official record of the Kingsguard.
- 2012: Brienne first appears, escorting Jaime Lannister.
- 2014: Brienne is knighted by Jaime.
- 2019: Their relationship culminates in Season 8; they become lovers.
Who Is Brienne of Tarth’s Father?
Brienne’s father is Lord Selwyn Tarth, the Lord of Evenfall Hall. He is the head of House Tarth. Brienne is his only surviving child, as her mother died when she was very young. Lord Selwyn is a gentle and kind man in the books, though he is rarely seen on the show. It is important to note that the father of Gwendoline Christie (the actress) is not publicly known, and there is no public information about him. The Brienne of Tarth Wikipedia page provides more background on her family.
What Is Brienne of Tarth’s Shield?
The shield of Brienne of Tarth bears the coat of arms of House Tarth. It features a sun and crescent moon, blazoned as “quarterly: a sun in splendour and a crescent moon.” This device represents her noble heritage from the island of Tarth, also known as the “Sapphire Isle.” The shield is a symbol of her honor, her family, and her identity as a warrior.
Brienne is fiercely proud of her house, and her shield is a constant companion in her battles. It serves as a visual reminder of the legacy she carries, even as she forges her own path as a knight.
Timeline: Key Events for Brienne of Tarth & Gwendoline Christie
The following timeline highlights crucial milestones in the character’s story and the actress’s career.
- 2011: Gwendoline Christie is cast as Brienne of Tarth for the second season of Game of Thrones.
- 2012: Brienne of Tarth makes her first appearance on screen in Season 2, escorting Jaime Lannister.
- 2014: In Season 4, Brienne is knighted by Jaime Lannister in a key moment of honor.
- 2019: Brienne survives the series finale and becomes Lord Commander of the Kingsguard. Christie receives an Emmy nomination for her role.
- 2020: Gwendoline Christie continues her career with roles in “The Sandman” and other major projects. George R.R. Martin’s website offers updates on the book series and related media.
Established Information vs. Unclear Details
While many facts about Brienne are clear, some details differ between the books and the show or remain uncertain.
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| Brienne survives the TV show. | Brienne’s ultimate fate in the books is unknown. |
| Gwendoline Christie is 6’3″ (1.91 m) tall. | The exact height of the book character is not specified. |
| Brienne is formally knighted in the show. | In the books, she is not a knight but is a warrior. |
| Her father is Lord Selwyn Tarth. | Gwendoline Christie’s real father is not publicly known. |
The Context: Brienne’s Role as a Feminist Icon
Brienne of Tarth challenges traditional gender roles in Westeros. She represents strength, honor, and resilience in a world that constantly dismisses her because of her appearance. Her character arc is a study of perseverance and self-worth.
Her relationship with Jaime Lannister is also a central theme. It explores ideas of redemption, trust, and mutual respect. Jaime sees past her exterior to recognize her true value, and Brienne helps him find a path toward honor. The shield of House Tarth, with its sun and moon, symbolizes her heritage and the pride she feels in her name.
Quotes & Sources
The following quotes capture key moments for the character and the actress’s perspective on the role.
“I am a knight of the Seven Kingdoms.”
— Brienne of Tarth, Game of Thrones Season 4
“She’s a character that is so often dismissed because of her appearance, but she’s so powerful.”
— Gwendoline Christie, multiple interviews
Summary: What to Remember About Brienne of Tarth
Brienne of Tarth is a powerful character who defies expectations at every turn. Portrayed by the tall and talented Gwendoline Christie, she survives the events of the show, becomes the first female knight, and ultimately commands the Kingsguard. Her relationship with Jaime Lannister is a pivotal part of her story. For more detailed character explorations, you can read about Sean Bean – Biography, Net Worth, and 2025 Update or check out the profile on Lady Dimitrescu – Biography, Height, and Key Facts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brienne of Tarth a real person?
No, Brienne of Tarth is a fictional character from George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series and the “Game of Thrones” television adaptation.
Does Brienne of Tarth have a child?
No, Brienne of Tarth does not have any children in the books or the television series.
Why is Brienne of Tarth called “the Beauty”?
The nickname “Brienne the Beauty” is given to her mockingly by men who are intimidated by her height and lack of conventional feminine appearance. Later, it is used with respect.
Who is the actress that plays Brienne of Tarth?
The actress is Gwendoline Christie. She is an English actress born on 28 October 1978.
Is Gwendoline Christie married?
Gwendoline Christie has been in a relationship with fashion designer Giles Deacon since 2013 but is not publicly known to be married.
What is the height difference between Brienne and Jaime?
Brienne is significantly taller than Jaime. In the show, Brienne is ~6’6″ while Jaime is portrayed by Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, who is 6’2″.
What season does Brienne first appear?
Brienne of Tarth first appears in Season 2 of Game of Thrones, which aired in 2012.
Does Brienne fight the Night King?
Yes, Brienne fights against the army of the dead and the White Walkers during the Battle of Winterfell in Season 8.
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Philip Rowe is Senior Reporter at UKBullet.uk, covering breaking UK news stories.