Economy Minister, Conor Murphy praises Northern Ireland’s screen industry on visit to A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms set
Date Posted: September 24, 2024
Economy Minister Conor Murphy has visited the set of the HBO Original drama series A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms in Glenarm, Co. Antrim. The six part high-end TV drama series filmed on location across Northern Ireland and in Titanic Studios with funding support from Northern Ireland Screen.
Adapted from George R. R. Martin’s novella “The Hedge Knight,” the first season of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms will follow the exploits of the knight Ser Duncan the Tall (Peter Claffey) and his young squire, Egg (Dexter Sol Ansell), roughly 100 years before the events of Game of Thrones and 100 years after the events of House of the Dragon.
Minister Murphy said:
“It was great to get an opportunity to visit the set of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms to see firsthand the incredible opportunities being created here within the screen industry.
“Productions like this not only showcase our stunning locations but they also invest in our local talent. Around 650 local crew are working on this series, with numerous trainee opportunities for those eager to forge careers in the industry.
“The commitment to sustainability on set also aligns with my vision for a greener, more responsible economy’.
During the set visit Minister Murphy heard from the production’s sustainability team who, with support from Northern Ireland Screen, has implemented a number of sustainability initiatives. One such initiative is the implementation of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) replacing the use of diesel fuel in the wide range of facility vehicles that transport equipment to each set location and all on location generators. It immediately reduces carbon emissions by up to 90% and requires no additional infrastructure investment.
Northern Ireland Screen estimates that A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms will generate investment of approximately £30million for the local economy as well as reinforcing Northern Ireland’s position as a premier destination for global film and television projects.
Sir David Sterling KCB, Chairman of Northern Ireland Screen, said:
“We were thrilled to welcome HBO back to Northern Ireland for the production of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, this marks another exciting chapter in our long-standing relationship. Northern Ireland’s rich landscapes and skilled crews have long played a key role in bringing Westeros to life, and this return is a testament to the talent and creativity that our region continues to offer.”
