LJ Bennion

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BSU alumnus stars in HBO series

Monday, 30 March, 2026

Drama and Film and Screen studies alumnus, LJ Bennion, has recently appeared in HBO’s A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, a prequel to Game of Thrones.

Working professionally as an actor since the age of 17, LJ has already built an impressive portfolio of screen credits, including appearances in Curfew (2024) on Paramount+ and Heartstopper (2022) on Netflix. However, his role of Ashford Septon in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms marks his most significant project to date.

Created by Ira Parker and George R. R. Martin, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is the latest instalment in Martin’s ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’ franchise, bringing new stories from the world of Westeros to the screen.

LJ auditioned for the series back in 2024 and received a swift response, with the director, showrunner, and casting director expressing interest in meeting him within a week. He was formally cast the following day in the role of Ashford Septon, a religious officiant for the Trial of Seven, a central event in the story.

Reflecting on the experience, LJ says:

“This role was one of the scariest but most exciting experiences I have ever taken on. The set was insane, everything meticulously placed and prepared, it was magical. I had the pleasure of working with an absolutely brilliant cast and crew who never failed to keep spirits up through rain storms. Filming the Trial was thrilling to say the least.”

Filming took place in Northern Ireland, with LJ travelling to set multiple times over the summer. His busy filming schedule meant he was unable to attend his graduation ceremony in July 2024, instead marking the occasion on set with fellow cast members.

Officially graduating in February 2025, with a joint honours degree in Drama and Film and Screen studies, LJ believes studying at BSU gave him the confidence and space to thrive in his career as an actor.

“Studying at BSU definitely built my confidence around performing. My biggest lesson was learning to be comfortable in the process, pushing through fears and ‘what ifs’, to be present and enjoy every moment of performance.”

He also commented on the importance of community during university:

“I am very grateful to Bath Spa Musical Theatre Society, of which I attended from 2021-2025. Having this space was so important, not only for the opportunity to perform but also for the true sense of belonging.”

Offering advice to those who wish to pursue their own acting career, LJ explains:

“Keep showing up. Study as much as you can, read as much as you can and talk to as many people around you with similar aspirations. As long as you love what you do, you’re doing it right.”

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is available to watch on HBO Max.