Kit Harington reflects on a humbling moment during filming Game of Thrones, when 11-year-old Bella Ramsey quietly stepped in to help him remember his lines—changing how he viewed collaboration and respect on set.
At a Glance
- Bella Ramsey debuted on Game of Thrones at just 11 years old
- Kit Harington froze during a scene—Ramsey mouthed his lines to help
- Harington admitted he underestimated her due to her age
- The experience reshaped his view of humility and mutual respect
- Ramsey became a fan favorite for her role as Lyanna Mormont
An Unexpected Lesson from a Young Star
Bella Ramsey made her screen debut as Lady Lyanna Mormont in Season 6 of Game of Thrones, stealing scenes with a fierce performance that belied her age. While filming one of their early scenes together, co-star Kit Harington—who portrayed Jon Snow—momentarily forgot his lines. As he struggled, Ramsey discreetly mouthed the dialogue to help him get back on track.
At first, Harington was embarrassed. But as he later told Variety, the moment became a valuable lesson. “I came here not really being comfortable enough with my lines,” he admitted. “In the arrogance of however old I was, thinking I’m just opposite some child. And then that child actor is wiping me off the screen.”
Watch Variety’s interview with Harington and Ramsey at Game of Thrones: Reunion Reflections.
Mutual Respect Beyond Age
Rather than view the experience as embarrassing, Harington said he came to admire Ramsey’s professionalism and presence. In a separate quote from the same Variety feature, he joked, “I’ve probably chosen to forget it,” before acknowledging that Ramsey’s talent pushed him to “up [his] game.”
Ramsey, in turn, recalled the moment with affection and a bit of cringe, noting she only meant to help and had no intention of showing him up. Her response: “Kit’s struggling with his line and I know it, so let me just mouth it to him,” she said.
A Bond Forged in Humility
For Harington, the incident was a turning point in how he viewed co-stars of all ages and experience levels. “Not that it’s a competition,” he reflected, “but you’re like, ‘I’ve got a bit too comfortable in my Jon Snow-ness.’” He now cites the exchange as one of the more valuable behind-the-scenes memories from the series.
As both actors continue to evolve in their careers—Harington currently stars in HBO’s Industry, while Ramsey rose to international fame through The Last of Us—their on-set encounter remains a poignant reminder of the value of mutual support, regardless of seniority or screen time.
