Danish actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, best known for playing Jaime Lannister in “Game of Thrones,” spoke to reporters at Comic Con Astana 2026. Kursiv LifeStyle highlights the most interesting takeaways from his answers.
The actor arrived in Astana a day before the press conference and had time to explore the city. He joked that he had eaten more meat in the capital than in previous years. Coster-Waldau also shared his impressions of a steam bath, saying he was thoroughly steamed and being held in a pool “like a baby.”
About Kazakh hospitality
The actor praised the people of Kazakhstan for their friendliness and openness. He also said the country had always made him think of horses and that it was in Astana where he rode a horse for the first time in his life.
Coster-Waldau said he always judged a country by its people, adding that everyone he had met in Kazakhstan had been friendly and welcoming. While acknowledging that he had received special treatment as a guest, he said he had nevertheless found people in the country to be exceptionally hospitable.
Kazakhstan on the “Game of Thrones” map
Reporters asked the actor, best known for playing Jaime Lannister, which kingdom Kazakhstan would be if it were part of the “Game of Thrones” universe. His answer pleasantly surprised them with its nuanced understanding of Central Asia.
Coster-Waldau suggested that Kazakhstan would likely find itself between the Lannisters and the Dothraki, mirroring its real-world position between two large and powerful countries. He added that Kazakhstan would serve as a diplomatic bridge, making each side believe it was the other’s best friend.
The actor also shared his plans. Coster-Waldau said he had placed his hand in the handprint at the Baiterek Monument and made a wish. He added that he hoped to return to Kazakhstan and, in particular, to visit the Mangystau region.
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Meanwhile, social media users criticized the interpreter during the session, with some even suggesting chipping in for a better one.
