John Bradley West, best known for his portrayal of the beloved Samwell Tarly in the epic series Game of Thrones, is more than just an actor. As revealed in a candid interview, he’s a man of intriguing depths, from his unexpected insights on Morrissey to his endearing childlike perspective on life. This in-depth look explores the multifaceted personality of John Bradley West, delving into his thoughts on fame, music, and the enduring appeal of being true to oneself.
John Bradley at the BBC Radio 6 Music event
From Manchester to Westeros: Getting to Know John Bradley West
The conversation began serendipitously. John Bradley West, attending a Morrissey event at BBC Radio 6 Music, was unexpectedly invited to share his thoughts live on air. His articulate and fresh perspective on Morrissey captivated listeners, highlighting a unique understanding of the artist’s profound connection with his audience. This impromptu moment led to a friendship and eventually, this insightful interview.
Meeting at an Ibis hotel in Manchester, the interview, initially planned for fifteen minutes, stretched into two hours, revealing the captivating nature of John Bradley West. His youthful appearance, described as “creamy coloured, soft, unblemished and unwrinkled,” and open demeanor contribute to a persona that is both approachable and intellectually stimulating. He playfully attributes his outlook to being “infantilized,” a concept that resonates throughout the conversation as he discusses his preferences and philosophies.
The Name Game: John Bradley West’s Identity
When asked about his full name, John Bradley West clarifies the distinction between his professional and legal identity. “My legal name is John Bradley West and my professional name is John Bradley.” This decision, made early in his acting career due to union regulations, was a way to retain a part of his identity. Bradley, his middle name and his father’s maternal family name, became a meaningful compromise, honoring his family history while navigating the professional world. He also shares a charming anecdote about being named after his father, creating a “linear thing” and the occasional confusion when his mother calls for “John.”
John Bradley West explaining his full name
Embracing the Inner Child: John Bradley West’s Perspective on Adulthood
John Bradley West’s self-proclaimed “infantilized” nature is a recurring theme. He believes “the child me is still the best me,” resisting the perceived pressures and compromises of adulthood. This philosophy extends to his lifestyle choices, including abstaining from alcohol, which he sees as “another concession to adulthood.” He fondly recalls entertaining adults as a child, dressing up in costumes and enjoying the attention, a precursor to his acting career. However, he also acknowledges a past disconnect with complex emotions, a gap that drama school highlighted, urging him to explore vulnerability.
Samwell Tarly: Mirroring Vulnerability and Bravery
Landing the role of Samwell Tarly in Game of Thrones was John Bradley West’s first audition after drama school. He recognizes deep similarities with his character, attributing his casting to directors perceiving his inherent vulnerability. He notes that Samwell’s backstory resonated with him, particularly the character’s feeling of being “displaced” and lacking choice.
John Bradley West reflects on the audience’s reaction to Samwell, observing that while women tend to appreciate his kindness, some men are less receptive, perhaps due to Sam’s embodiment of vulnerability. He emphasizes Samwell’s consistent bravery, even before his character development arc, highlighting the quiet strength beneath the surface. He shares a director’s insightful description of Sam and Gilly as “two birds and they’ve got a broken wing each. They can’t fly on their own but together they have a full set,” illustrating the power of their combined strength.
Musical Soulmate: John Bradley West’s Love for Morrissey
Music, particularly Morrissey, plays a significant role in John Bradley West’s life. He discovered Morrissey in his teens, finding solace and connection during a period of feeling “adrift.” Morrissey’s music became a “friend in a time of need,” offering reassurance that his feelings of isolation were not unique. He describes his initial encounter with Morrissey’s music through greatest hits compilations, eventually delving deeper and recognizing a profound connection beyond just sound, differentiating it from superficial musical interests like AC/DC. For John Bradley West, Morrissey represents “falling in love” with music, a permanent and transformative experience.
He appreciates Morrissey’s evolving artistry, noting that “ideologically every album and statement is different,” keeping his work consistently engaging and challenging. While acknowledging not agreeing with everything Morrissey says, he admires his unparalleled lyrical and musical talent. John Bradley West is excited about Morrissey’s album Low In High School, interpreting it as a reflection of Morrissey finally experiencing “adolescence” and exploring themes of love and sexuality with a mature perspective. He finds the album musically brave and lyrically satisfying, particularly highlighting tracks like “Jacky’s Only Happy.”
John Bradley West with a Khaleesi wig, humorously declining to wear it
Pop Culture and Quirky Preferences: Inside John Bradley West’s World
Beyond Game of Thrones and Morrissey, John Bradley West reveals a fondness for 70s and 80s culture, Vintage TV, Bullseye, and Dad’s Army. His pop culture preferences extend to food, including prawn cocktail crisps, pineapple on pizza, and Primula cheese spread. He jokingly discusses creating a gourmet canapé with Ritz crackers, Philadelphia, Matteson’s smoked sausage, and Skip crisps, showcasing his playful personality. His favorite film is Raging Bull, drawn to the vulnerable core beneath the macho exterior of De Niro’s character, a theme that resonates with his own appreciation for vulnerability.
He enjoys being recognized by Game of Thrones fans, appreciating their positive interactions. However, he also values anonymity, finding it “quite a nice way to be” when encountering those unfamiliar with the show. His favorite Smiths song is currently “Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me,” and his preferred Morrissey song is “Speedway.” He describes his ideal tea as strong, milky, with one sugar lump, ideally served in a pot. His pizza topping of choice is pineapple, a seemingly unconventional but beloved preference.
A Final Note: John Bradley West’s Enduring Appeal
John Bradley West’s interview reveals a man of depth, humor, and genuine passion. His insightful perspectives on Morrissey, his endearing embrace of his “infantilized” self, and his portrayal of the vulnerable yet brave Samwell Tarly, all contribute to his unique appeal. He embodies a refreshing authenticity in the entertainment industry, connecting with audiences through his relatable vulnerabilities and genuine enthusiasm for his passions. His reflections offer a glimpse into the mind of an actor who is not only talented but also deeply thoughtful and refreshingly himself.
