Roger Ashton-Griffiths, English actor, screenwriter and film director

Roger Ashton-Griffiths: A Versatile English Character Actor and Filmmaker

Roger Ashton-Griffiths, born on January 19, 1957, is a distinguished English character actor, in addition to his work as a screenwriter and film director. Renowned for his ability to embody a diverse range of roles, Ashton-Griffiths has carved a niche for himself through his distinctive screen presence and adaptable performances.

He is most widely recognized for his memorable portrayal of Mace Tyrell, the somewhat pompous yet powerful Lord of Highgarden and head of House Tyrell, in the critically acclaimed HBO fantasy series "Game of Thrones". As the father of Margaery and Loras Tyrell, his character played a significant, albeit often comically overshadowed, role in the political intrigues of Westeros, particularly during the show's fifth and sixth seasons.

Beyond Westeros: A Prolific Acting Career

Ashton-Griffiths' extensive career spans across numerous film and television productions, showcasing his impressive range. His notable film credits include appearing in acclaimed historical epics such as Martin Scorsese's "Gangs of New York" (2002), where he played the role of P.T. Barnum, and Terry Gilliam's dystopian classic "Brazil" (1985). He also featured in "A Knight's Tale" (2001) alongside Heath Ledger, and "The Brothers Grimm" (2005).

On television, his work extends beyond "Game of Thrones" to other significant historical dramas. He appeared as Sir Robert Brackenbury in "The Tudors" (2007-2010), King Uther Pendragon in "Merlin" (2008), and also had a role in the ITV series "Victoria" (2016). These roles underscore his consistent presence in period dramas, often bringing a weighty or eccentric gravitas to his characters.

Roger Ashton-Griffiths: A Creative Force Behind the Camera

Beyond his acting prowess, Roger Ashton-Griffiths has also contributed to the cinematic arts as a screenwriter and film director. His directorial debut came with the 1998 film "The Last Days of William Shakespeare," a creative exploration showcasing his multifaceted talents. He further ventured into filmmaking by directing the short film "Defenestration of Prague" in 2006, demonstrating his continued engagement with storytelling from a directorial perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roger Ashton-Griffiths

Who is Roger Ashton-Griffiths?

Roger Ashton-Griffiths is an accomplished English character actor, screenwriter, and film director, known for his distinctive performances in a wide array of films and television series, most notably "Game of Thrones."

What is Roger Ashton-Griffiths best known for?

He is most widely recognized for his role as Mace Tyrell in the HBO fantasy series "Game of Thrones."

What other films and TV shows has Roger Ashton-Griffiths been in?

Beyond "Game of Thrones," his significant credits include "Gangs of New York," "Brazil," "A Knight's Tale," "The Tudors," "Merlin," and "Victoria."

Has Roger Ashton-Griffiths directed any films?

Yes, he directed the 1998 film "The Last Days of William Shakespeare" and the 2006 short film "Defenestration of Prague."