Jack Gleeson Addresses Rumors Surrounding His Acting Hiatus
Published on: September 25, 2025
Jack Gleeson, widely recognized for his portrayal of the notorious Joffrey Baratheon in HBO’s acclaimed series Game of Thrones, has recently shed light on his decision to step back from acting after the show’s conclusion. At the premiere of his new series, House of Guinness, Gleeson took the opportunity to clarify misconceptions regarding his hiatus, particularly the notion that it stemmed from negative public sentiment towards his character.
The Legacy of Joffrey Baratheon
Gleeson’s performance as Joffrey, a character infamous for his cruelty and tyrannical rule, left an indelible mark on the Game of Thrones landscape. The series, which aired from 2011 to 2019, became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its intricate storytelling and complex characters. Joffrey, in particular, was often the subject of intense viewer disdain, a testament to Gleeson’s skill in embodying such a loathsome figure.
Despite the character’s villainy, Gleeson has emphasized that the backlash he received was not the reason for his departure from the screen. “Thankfully, it wasn’t because I received any sort of abuse from anybody. Thankfully! I know that can happen, sadly,” he stated in an interview with The Hoot. He acknowledged the tendency for audiences to conflate actors with their roles, but reassured fans that his break was not a reaction to public animosity.
A Shift Towards Theatre
After Game of Thrones, Gleeson redirected his focus towards theater, establishing a company in Dublin with friends. This venture allowed him to explore his passion for live performance, a medium that often offers a different kind of connection with audiences compared to screen acting. “I was continuing to act but it was more of just a theatre company that I set up with some friends in Dublin,” he explained.
However, as time passed, Gleeson found himself yearning for the unique challenges and opportunities that screen acting presents. “I started to miss screen acting, so I got back into it,” he added, indicating that his hiatus was more about personal exploration than public perception.
The New Chapter: House of Guinness
Gleeson’s return to the screen comes with the premiere of House of Guinness, a series created by Steven Knight, known for his work on Peaky Blinders. The show delves into the rich history of the Guinness family, one of Ireland’s most iconic dynasties, and is set against the backdrop of 19th-century Dublin and New York.
The narrative begins with the death of Sir Benjamin Guinness, the architect behind the brewery’s success, and explores the implications of his will on his four children: Arthur, Edward, Anne, and Ben. The series also introduces a cast of characters from Dublin who interact with the burgeoning Guinness phenomenon. Alongside Gleeson, the show features talents such as Anthony Boyle, Louis Partridge, Emily Fairn, Fionn O’Shea, and James Norton.
Released on Netflix on September 25, House of Guinness promises to offer viewers a blend of historical drama and family intrigue, showcasing the complexities of legacy and ambition.
The Impact of Game of Thrones
The cultural impact of Game of Thrones cannot be overstated. The series not only redefined the fantasy genre on television but also set new standards for production quality and storytelling depth. Characters like Joffrey Baratheon became emblematic of the show’s ability to evoke strong emotional responses from viewers, whether love or hate.
Gleeson’s portrayal of Joffrey has often been cited in discussions about the ethics of acting and audience perception. The intense reactions to his character highlight the fine line actors walk between their on-screen personas and real-life identities. This phenomenon is not unique to Gleeson; many actors have faced similar challenges, navigating the complexities of public perception and personal identity.
Conclusion
Jack Gleeson’s return to acting marks a significant moment not only for him but also for fans who have followed his journey since Game of Thrones. By addressing the rumors surrounding his hiatus, Gleeson has provided clarity and context, emphasizing that his break was a personal choice rather than a reaction to public sentiment. As he embarks on this new chapter with House of Guinness, audiences can look forward to witnessing his evolution as an actor, one that promises to be as compelling as the characters he portrays.
