Burn Gorman, a talented British actor, is best known for his portrayal of Karl Tanner, a member of the Night's Watch, in the hit HBO fantasy drama series Game of Thrones. Gorman's character, also known as the "mutineer," was introduced in Season 3 of the show and played a significant role in the storyline surrounding the Night's Watch and the White Walkers.
Karl Tanner’s Character Development

Gorman brought to life the complex and intriguing character of Karl Tanner, a brother of the Night’s Watch who eventually turns against his vows and becomes a key figure in the mutiny at Craster’s Keep. Throughout his time on the show, Gorman’s performance showcased his ability to convey a sense of depth and nuance, making Karl Tanner a compelling and formidable character. His interactions with other characters, such as Jon Snow and the rest of the Night’s Watch, added richness to the storyline and helped to explore the themes of loyalty, duty, and the human condition.
Background and Motivations
Karl Tanner’s backstory and motivations were gradually revealed throughout the series, providing insight into what drove him to abandon his oath and join the mutineers. Gorman’s portrayal of the character suggested a deep-seated resentment and sense of disillusionment with the Night’s Watch and its strict codes of conduct. This, combined with his own personal demons and the harsh realities of life beyond the Wall, ultimately led to his downfall and tragic demise at the hands of Jon Snow.
Characteristics | Description |
---|---|
Actor | Burn Gorman |
Character | Karl Tanner |
Seasons | 3-4 |
Episodes | 10 |

Key Points
- Burn Gorman played the role of Karl Tanner, a member of the Night's Watch, in Game of Thrones.
- Karl Tanner was a key figure in the mutiny at Craster's Keep and had a complex, nuanced character development throughout the series.
- Gorman's performance brought depth and richness to the storyline, exploring themes of loyalty, duty, and the human condition.
- Karl Tanner's backstory and motivations were gradually revealed, providing insight into his actions and ultimate demise.
- Burn Gorman's portrayal of Karl Tanner added a new layer of complexity to the Game of Thrones universe, highlighting the moral ambiguity of the characters and their world.
Game of Thrones and its Impact on Popular Culture

Game of Thrones, which aired from 2011 to 2019, has had a profound impact on popular culture, inspiring countless fan art, fan fiction, and even influencing the way we think about politics, power, and social dynamics. The show’s intricate world-building, complex characters, and shocking plot twists have captivated audiences worldwide, making it a cultural phenomenon that continues to be felt today.
The Night’s Watch and the White Walkers
The Night’s Watch, a brotherhood of sworn brothers who guard the Wall, played a crucial role in the Game of Thrones storyline, particularly in the context of the White Walkers and the Great War. The Night’s Watch, with its strict codes of conduct and ancient traditions, served as a symbol of duty, loyalty, and sacrifice, while the White Walkers represented an existential threat to the realm, forcing the characters to confront their own mortality and the true nature of their world.
The intersection of the Night's Watch and the White Walkers created a rich and complex narrative that explored the human condition, the nature of power, and the consequences of playing with forces beyond human control. Burn Gorman's character, Karl Tanner, was an integral part of this narrative, serving as a foil to the more traditional members of the Night's Watch and highlighting the difficulties of maintaining one's values and principles in a world filled with moral ambiguity.
What was Karl Tanner’s role in Game of Thrones?
+Karl Tanner was a member of the Night’s Watch who played a key role in the mutiny at Craster’s Keep and served as a complex, nuanced character in the Game of Thrones universe.
Who played the role of Karl Tanner in Game of Thrones?
+The role of Karl Tanner was played by British actor Burn Gorman.
What was the significance of the Night’s Watch in Game of Thrones?
+The Night’s Watch served as a symbol of duty, loyalty, and sacrifice, while also playing a crucial role in the storyline surrounding the White Walkers and the Great War.