Lena Headey reveals in a candid interview how she told disgraced producer Harvey Weinstein 'where to go,' a decision she says caused a decade of possibilities to disappear. The Game of Thrones star, known for her iconic role as Cersei Lannister, opens up about the personal and professional fallout of standing up to Weinstein.
The Fateful Encounter with Harvey Weinstein
In a new interview, Headey recalls the moment she confronted Weinstein. "I told Harvey Weinstein where to go," she says, explaining that her refusal to comply led to an immediate blackballing in Hollywood. "A decade of possibilities disappeared overnight." The actress, who had already built a career in films like 300 and Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, saw doors close that had previously been open.
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How Standing Up Changed Her Career Trajectory
Before her breakthrough on Game of Thrones, Headey faced a period of professional drought directly tied to her rejection of Weinstein. Yet she remains unapologetic: “I would do it again in a heartbeat.” Her story sheds light on the systemic power abuse in the entertainment industry and the personal toll of refusing such advances.
From Bermuda to Westeros: Headey's Early Life
Born in Bermuda to police officer parents, Headey was an independent child. She moved to Somerset at age six and described her upbringing as “feral”—full of outdoor adventures. Despite struggling academically, she found solace in drama classes. At 14, she ran away to Birmingham, an experience she says shaped her resilience.
The Role That Defined Her Career
Headey’s portrayal of Cersei Lannister on Game of Thrones earned her five Emmy nominations and global recognition. Yet her journey to Westeros was marked by the earlier career setback. In her new audio drama Intimacy, which she wrote, directed, and stars in, she explores themes of power and vulnerability.
Comparing Career Moments: Before and After Weinstein
| Period | Opportunities | Notable Works |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Weinstein encounter (early 2000s) | Steady film roles | 300, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles |
| Post-Weinstein blackballing (mid-2000s) | Drastically reduced | Limited indie projects |
| Resurgence with Game of Thrones (2011+) | Peak global fame | Game of Thrones, Emmy nominations |
Key Takeaways from Lena Headey's Story
- Speaking truth to power can have severe career consequences, but integrity often prevails.
- Headey's candid account highlights the pervasive nature of harassment in Hollywood.
- Her resilience paved the way for later success on Game of Thrones.
- The audio drama Intimacy represents her creative control and continued evolution.
FAQ
Did Lena Headey name Harvey Weinstein directly in this interview?
Yes, Headey explicitly says she told Harvey Weinstein 'where to go' and describes the subsequent decade of lost opportunities.
How did the Harvey Weinstein encounter affect her career?
According to Headey, telling Weinstein no resulted in professional blackballing that lasted about a decade, until she was cast in Game of Thrones.
What is Lena Headey's new project?
She writes, directs, and stars in Intimacy, an eight-part comedy audio drama for BBC Sounds and Radio 4.