George Blagden
George Blagden – British actor known for Vikings and Versailles. Discover the “life and career of George Blagden,” his acting philosophy, and his most meaningful quotes.
Introduction
George Paul Blagden (born December 28, 1989) is an English actor and singer whose work spans film, television, stage, and voice narration. He is best known for his roles as Athelstan in Vikings and Louis XIV in Versailles. His journey reflects a balanced blend of classical training, musical sensibility, and dedication to character depth.
Blagden’s career matters not only for his noteworthy roles, but also for how he approaches craft, artistic risk, and the interplay of vulnerability and strength in his performances.
Early Life and Education
George Blagden was born in London, England on December 28, 1989.
He began singing at age 13, participating in choirs and also forming his own rock band—a foundation in music that complemented his acting ambitions.
For schooling, he attended Old Buckenham Hall School and later won a drama scholarship to Oundle School, where he participated in theatre productions (e.g. Into the Woods, Art). National Youth Theatre, and was selected for a masterclass with Sir Ian McKellen.
After secondary school, Blagden trained professionally at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, graduating in 2011.
Career & Achievements
Early Screen & Film Roles
Blagden’s first screen engagements came soon after his graduation. After the Dark (filmed 2011, released later) marked one of his early film roles as Andy. Wrath of the Titans (in a supporting role) and notably as Grantaire in Les Misérables.
Television Breakthrough & Signature Roles
He gained wide recognition for his portrayal of Athelstan in Vikings (2013–2016) — a role that combined spiritual introspection with dramatic conflict.
His next major turn was as Louis XIV in the French/BBC co-produced historical drama Versailles (2015–2018). This role positioned him at the center of court politics, power struggles, and the burdens of monarchy.
He also appeared in Black Mirror in the “Hang the DJ” episode as Lenny.
Stage, Voice & Multimedia
Blagden has also worked on stage in London’s West End. For example, he played PJ in the 2018 musical revival Company at the Gielgud Theatre. Tartuffe and other theatre productions in London.
In addition, he has done voice and narration work: he narrated a Penguin Classics audiobook version of Homer’s The Odyssey, and contributed voice work for an immersive audiovisual tour for the Circus Maximus in Rome via the BARDEUM app.
He also created a short film Lara (2020) exploring AI and solitude, showing his interest in storytelling beyond acting.
Personal & Philanthropic Notes
Blagden married actress Laura Pitt-Pulford on September 29, 2019. They have a son, Arlo Peter Blagden, born in October 2020.
He is a supporter of Diabetes UK. In 2015, he cycled from London to Paris in under 72 hours, raising nearly £5,000 for the cause.
He also has skills in music (guitar, piano, flute), acrobatics, archery, and is fluent in French.
Legacy & Influence
George Blagden is not just a genre actor — his legacy lies in depth, versatility, and a willingness to engage emotionally with his roles:
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Character depth over spectacle
He gravitates toward roles with internal conflict rather than purely external drama. -
Bridging historic and contemporary sensibilities
In Versailles and Vikings, he brings modern emotional resonance to historical narratives. -
Multidisciplinary approach
His involvement in music, theatre, voice, and filmmaking shows he is shaping a layered artistic path. -
Integrity & training
His classical training and consistent work ethic make him an exemplar for actors looking for sustainability, not just fame.
Famous Quotes of George Blagden
Here are a selection of notable quotes that reflect his perspective on acting, life, and creativity:
“To walk into the hall of mirrors of Versailles as Louis XIV and deliver a monologue on your own in an empty hall of mirrors is like no other experience.” “The best characters to play are the ones who have deep internal conflict.” “Sometimes when you’re stood in front of 100 people, delivering a speech with rage and lots of emotion, that can be utterly terrifying. I find that very scary.” “Learning about acting for camera is really quite exciting to engage with and deal with.” “Never aim to be proactive with your day. That way, if you end up getting stuff done, you’re never disappointed.” “Always, when I get onto horseback, I’m kind of terrified of being up there.” “Modern audiences are so intelligent. They work at such a fast pace that if you don’t give enough stimulus at a breakneck speed, they will become disinterested.”
These quotes reveal a thoughtful actor who reflects on vulnerability, challenge, and the craft’s demands.
Lessons from George Blagden’s Journey
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Embrace vulnerability
Blagden shows that even roles of power (like Louis XIV) benefit from emotional truth and introspection. -
Be multidimensional
He balances screen, stage, music, voice, and filmmaking — not limiting himself to one medium. -
Training grounds matter
His disciplined foundation at Guildhall, National Youth Theatre, and early theatre roles underpin his ability to adapt. -
Courage in risk
Tackling introspective roles and directing a short film signal his willingness to risk outside his comfort zone. -
Giving back strengthens identity
His charitable action (cycling for Diabetes UK) reveals that public life and personal values can connect meaningfully.
Conclusion
George Blagden’s path is one of continuous growth rather than abrupt stardom. From choir boy to Shakespearean training, from supporting film roles to television leads, and eventually into creative self-direction, his story is about evolving with intention.