Thrones giant who spins music

Actor Kristian Nairn, who plays Hodor on Game Of Thrones, is also a DJ.
Actor Kristian Nairn, who plays Hodor on Game Of Thrones, is also a DJ. PHOTO: COURTESY OF KRISTIAN NAIRN

Kristian Nairn is probably better known as the dimwitted giant Hodor on the popular HBO series Game Of Thrones, whose fans probably do not know that the 39- year-old actor has also been a DJ for about 20 years.

Since the television show hit the big time, Nairn has been organising theme events affectionately called Rave Of Thrones, where partygoers tend to dress up as Game Of Thrones characters.

Life had an e-mail interview with the 2m-tall Irish actor who is heading here to spin at the Formula One afterparty on Saturday.

How did you get started in music?

I've been involved in music all my life, even before you could call it a career. I can't remember a time before I played an instrument or sang.

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    WHERE: The Podium Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, 7 Raffles Avenue

    WHEN: Friday, 10pm till late

    ADMISSION: $188

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What is the main difference between DJ-ing onstage and performing in front of a camera?

Obviously there are technical differences between the two, but in terms of how you perform and translate mood and emotion into consumable material for the audience - that remains a constant.

Do you have a dream venue or role to play?

I have a few dream roles, but I have this superstition that if you put it out there, it won't happen. I was lucky enough to play at a beach festival in France recently and I absolutely loved it.

I would love to do more outdoor gigs. The atmosphere is very special.

Funniest moment on the set of Game Of Thrones?

Last season, I fell down a hill just as I was saying "Hodor" and it turned into "Hodarrrgghhhhhh".

What kind of person would you be attracted to?

I'm attracted to driven and challenging people, with a bit of mystery about them.

Favourite Game Of Thrones character?

Probably Varys (played by Conleth Hill). He's such an amazing, complex and intricate character.

Is there a Rave Of Thrones dress code?

There has never been a dress code. More and more people are coming for the music I'm playing and less for the spectacle, so dress exactly how you want to.

If you feel that you want to celebrate your inner Khaleesi, do it.

The Rave Of Thrones events have been some of the best nights of my life. I love that they bring together people from all walks of life, from show fans to music fans, and everyone, really. It's an amazing melting pot of culture.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on September 16, 2015, with the headline Thrones giant who spins music. Subscribe