Before becoming an Emmy-winning star through Ted Lasso, Hannah Waddingham in Game of Thrones left a lasting impression on audiences with one of the HBO fantasy drama’s most unforgettable supporting characters. Although her screen time was limited compared to many leading cast members, her commanding performance as Septa Unella became one of the most talked-about parts of the series.
The British actress had already built an impressive career in musical theater before stepping into the world of Westeros. Her role introduced millions of viewers to her remarkable screen presence, ultimately opening doors to larger television and film opportunities that followed.
Table of Contents
Key Points Summary
╔════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╗
║ – Hannah Waddingham portrayed Septa Unella in HBO's Game of Thrones. ║
║ – She appeared during Seasons 5 and 6 as a member of the Faith Militant. ║
║ – The character became famous for repeatedly saying "Shame" during Cersei's punishment. ║
║ – The role introduced Waddingham to a worldwide television audience. ║
║ – She later achieved international acclaim through Ted Lasso and several major film projects. ║
╚════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝Who Did Hannah Waddingham Play in Game of Thrones?
Hannah Waddingham portrayed Septa Unella, a devoted follower of the Faith of the Seven and a senior member of the Faith Militant.
Unella served under the High Sparrow and quickly became known for her strict religious devotion, unwavering discipline, and intimidating presence. Unlike many warriors in the series who relied on swords or armies, Septa Unella exercised psychological authority through religious law and punishment.
Although the character appeared in relatively few episodes, she became one of the show’s most recognizable supporting figures.
The Famous “Shame” Scene
The defining moment of Septa Unella’s storyline came during one of the most iconic scenes in Game of Thrones history.
After Queen Cersei Lannister confessed to certain crimes, she was sentenced to complete a humiliating public walk through King’s Landing. Throughout the punishment, Septa Unella followed closely behind ringing a hand bell while repeatedly shouting:
“Shame.”
That single word quickly became one of the most recognizable quotes from the series.
The scene demonstrated Unella’s unwavering commitment to the Faith’s punishments while highlighting the dramatic power struggles that defined the later seasons of the show.
Why Septa Unella Became So Memorable
Powerful Screen Presence
Even without lengthy dialogue, Hannah Waddingham delivered a commanding performance through facial expressions, posture, and vocal authority.
One of Television’s Most Recognizable Catchphrases
The repeated word “Shame” entered popular culture almost immediately. It inspired countless internet memes, social media jokes, sports chants, and television references worldwide.
An Unforgettable Rivalry with Cersei
Unella became one of the few characters capable of humiliating Cersei Lannister, creating one of the series’ most emotionally charged conflicts.
What Happened to Septa Unella?
Septa Unella’s story ended after Cersei reclaimed power in King’s Landing.
Captured by Cersei’s guards, Unella was imprisoned beneath the Red Keep. During the closing episodes of Season 6, Cersei exacted revenge by leaving her alone with Ser Gregor Clegane—better known as The Mountain.
Although the series did not explicitly show everything that happened afterward, it strongly implied that Unella did not survive.
Her fate marked the end of one of the Faith Militant’s most recognizable members.
Hannah Waddingham’s Experience Filming the Series
Years after appearing on the show, Hannah Waddingham shared details about filming some of the more demanding scenes.
She revealed that portions of her final sequence involved physically challenging production techniques that proved difficult during filming. Waddingham later discussed the emotional impact of those experiences, explaining that they were among the toughest moments of her acting career.
Despite those challenges, she has consistently spoken with pride about being part of one of television’s biggest productions.
Career Before Joining Game of Thrones
Long before entering Westeros, Hannah Waddingham had established herself as one of Britain’s most respected musical theater performers.
Her extensive stage career included acclaimed productions such as:
- Spamalot
- The Wizard of Oz
- Into the Woods
- Kiss Me, Kate
She earned multiple Olivier Award nominations and became known for her exceptional singing voice and commanding live performances.
That theatrical background helped shape the confidence and authority she later brought to television.
How Game of Thrones Changed Her Career
While Waddingham already enjoyed significant success on stage, Game of Thrones dramatically increased her international recognition.
The HBO series reached audiences across the globe, introducing her talent to millions of viewers outside the United Kingdom.
Casting directors soon recognized her versatility, leading to a growing number of high-profile television opportunities.
The Breakthrough Success of Ted Lasso
Several years after Game of Thrones, Hannah Waddingham landed what became the defining role of her television career.
As Rebecca Welton in Ted Lasso, she portrayed the owner of AFC Richmond with warmth, intelligence, humor, and emotional depth.
Her performance earned widespread critical acclaim and multiple prestigious awards, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.
Many viewers who first remembered her as the stern Septa Unella were surprised by her comedic timing and emotional range.
Film and Television Career After Game of Thrones
Following her breakout success, Hannah Waddingham continued appearing in several major productions.
Her recent work includes:
- Ted Lasso
- The Fall Guy
- Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning
- Hocus Pocus 2
- Sex Education
- Tom Jones
She has also become a popular television presenter and awards-show host, showcasing her charisma beyond scripted acting.
Why Fans Still Search for Hannah Waddingham in Game of Thrones
Interest in Hannah Waddingham’s role remains strong years after the series concluded.
Several reasons continue driving online searches:
New Fans Discovering the Series
Streaming platforms introduce Game of Thrones to new audiences every year, many of whom recognize Waddingham from her later work.
Ted Lasso Popularity
Viewers who became fans through Ted Lasso often revisit her earlier performances.
Social Media Clips
The “Shame” sequence remains one of the most widely shared scenes from the show, frequently resurfacing on social media and video platforms.
Award Recognition
As Waddingham’s career has continued to flourish, curiosity about her earlier television roles has naturally increased.
The Lasting Legacy of Septa Unella
Although Septa Unella appeared in only a handful of episodes, the character remains one of Game of Thrones’ most recognizable supporting figures.
Her unwavering devotion, unforgettable dialogue, and pivotal role in one of television’s most famous scenes ensured that audiences would remember her long after the series ended.
For Hannah Waddingham, the role represented an important turning point. It introduced her to a global audience and helped pave the way for an award-winning career that has since expanded across television, film, and live entertainment.
Today, fans continue revisiting her performance as Septa Unella while celebrating the remarkable versatility that has made Hannah Waddingham one of Britain’s most admired performers.
What do you think of Hannah Waddingham’s performance as Septa Unella? Share your thoughts in the comments and stay tuned for more entertainment updates and TV features.
