Ser Duncan the Tall: A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms - Character Spotlight on Peter Claffey's Dunk
In the new "Game of Thrones" prequel series "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms," the character Dunk, played by Peter Claffey, stands out for his towering height as a lowborn hedge knight seeking a benefactor at the Ashford tourney grounds. Despite being the subject of jokes due to his size, Dunk's earnestness draws people to him, leading him to adopt the moniker Ser Duncan the Tall to be taken more seriously. Claffey, a former pro-rugby player, closely matches Dunk's canonical height of nearly seven feet from George R. R. Martin's "Dunk & Egg" novellas, making him a fitting choice for the role.
Dunk inherits three horses from his mentor, Ser Arlan of Pennytree, and forms a special bond with them, as they are his only possessions along with Arlan's sword and shield. Claffey underwent extensive training with stunt horses to portray this connection authentically, emphasizing the importance of a knight's horse in his identity. The actor's dedication to working with the horses, particularly Chesnut, showcases his commitment to bringing Dunk's character to life on screen.
In the series premiere, Dunk emerges as a genuine and likable character navigating the challenges of his lowly status with grace and charm. His relationship with Egg, the stable boy, promises to be a central emotional arc, highlighting the unconventional heroism rooted in compassion and honesty. Dunk's height adds a layer of awkwardness that can be misunderstood by others but also fosters unexpected friendships based on mutual respect and understanding.