‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Star Addresses Online Criticism Regarding Diversity

Tanzyn Crawford, who portrays Tanselle in HBO’s A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, has spoken out about the negative reactions she received online regarding her casting. The show, based on George R.R. Martin’s “Dunk and Egg” novellas, has been largely praised by fans, but a segment of viewers criticized the inclusion of a character of color, arguing it deviated from the source material and a perceived lack of “wokeness.”

Crawford Responds to Negativity

In an interview with Wonderland magazine, Crawford described the experience as “intimidating,” acknowledging the passionate fanbase and the strong opinions surrounding the show. She revealed she did receive negativity centered around her race but ultimately focused on the opportunity to pursue her dreams. “I definitely did secure some negativity around race, but at the complete of the day, I’m employed — and I’m following my dreams,” Crawford stated.

George R.R. Martin’s Support

Crawford shared that George R.R. Martin himself assured her that she embodied his vision for the character of Tanselle. “He told me, ‘You’re exactly what I pictured [for Tanselle]’,” she recounted. Martin reportedly viewed Tanselle as a contrasting element within the series, offering a “softer outlet” amidst the show’s more “manly, quite harsh and brutal” tone. He appreciated her character’s independence and separate passions.

Looking Ahead: Season Two and Beyond

Tanselle’s storyline concludes after the first season, as the character does not appear in Martin’s second novella, The Sworn Sword, which will serve as the basis for season two of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. However, Crawford has secured a modern role in Netflix’s upcoming live-action adaptation of Assassin’s Creed.

Strong Ratings for the Series Finale

The first season of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms concluded with a season-high 9.5 million viewers for its finale. The show has demonstrated consistent growth in viewership throughout its six-episode run, averaging 26 million viewers worldwide since its premiere on January 18th.