Ian Beattie

Ian Beattie is a Northern Irish actor best known for his roles as Antigonus in Oliver Stone's film Alexander, and as Ser Meryn Trant in the HBO series, Game of Thrones. For Beattie, acting has always been a part of his life, beginning at an early age when he toured Northern Ireland in a circus with his father. Beattie has appeared in a number of television and film projects over his career, with credits including The Tudors, Mo, Vikings, and Space Truckers. Announced in 2010, Beattie was confirmed in the role of Ser Meryn Trant, a member of the Kingsguard under King Joffrey. Initially only appearing as a guest in the first season, he soon reprised the role in the second, third, fourth and fifth seasons. Though being far different in person, Beattie's sadistic, brutal and all round vile portrayal of the character led to one of the most graphic, yet satisfying deaths on the show. It's safe to say that Ser Meryn Trant was one of the many characters we loved to hate. Alongside his filmography, Beattie has also appeared in the play Demented by Gary Mitchell at the Lyric Theatre in Belfast. Most recently, Ian Beattie has appeared in the latest season of Doctor Who alongside Peter Capaldi, Hayfield, US hit series Quantico, and the historical drama film Viking Destiny.