Game of Thrones actor Hannah Waddingham forced to take a break from acting due to respiratory infection

Acting takes a lot of guts, skill, and hard work, especially if it’s for a show as big as Game of Thrones. Hannah Waddingham, who won an Emmy award last year for her role in Ted Lasso, was really brave when auditioning for Game of Thrones. When she tried out for the role of Septa Unella, she was pregnant at the time. So we can understand how frustrating it must be for the tough-as-nails actress to take a break from her career, especially due to health issues.

The 47-year-old took to Instagram to share the grave news, which was later flooded with messages from family, friends and fans wishing her a quick recovery. She wrote:

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“With the heaviest, deeply frustrated of hearts, due to a truly horrible ongoing upper respiratory infection brought on by full-blown flu, I have had to admit defeat and step down from the Sondheim Memorial Gala. It’s a decision that I’m sure everyone know I have not taken lightly… I’m truly gutted and can’t quite believe the timing.”

During her time on Game of Thrones as Septa Unella, Waddingham had to be “wineboarded” for 10 hours straight. She showed true spirit, and does not regret going to extremes for a role. Let’s hope she recovers from the infection quickly and we can continue seeing more amazing performances from her. Send your well wishes in the comments below!