"Game of Thrones" has been a launching pad for a number of stars.
While some actors, such as Peter Dinklage (Tyrion), had established careers, some, such as Kit Harrington (Jon Snow), were virtually unknown.
Harrington had only worked in theater before he auditioned for — and booked — his first TV role as the beloved Jon Snow. Maisie Williams and Sophie Turner, who play his sisters Arya and Sansa Stark respectively, had never acted professionally before.
The show and its actors have been nominated for numerous awards, including a Golden Globe and two Emmy wins for Dinklage.
Here's what 20 "Game of Thrones" actors were doing before they were cast on the hit show:
SEE ALSO: Here's how to quickly catch up on 'Game of Thrones' if you've never seen it
Follow INSIDER Pop Culture on Facebook
As a drama school student, Kit Harrington landed the role of Albert in the National Theatre's adaptation of "War Horse," a role he reprised on the West End. Soon after, he scored his first TV role as the beloved Jon Snow.
Peter Dinklage has won two Emmys and a Golden Globe for his role as Tyrion Lannister on "GoT," but he made his film debut in 1995. His breakout role, however, came in 2003's "The Station Agent," and he appeared in "Elf" that same year.
Before playing Arya Stark, Maisie Williams had never acted professionally. Since then, the 19-year-old has added more credits to her name, including four episodes of "Doctor Who" and five feature films.
See the rest of the story at Business Insider