Maisie Williams on Fame, Trauma, and Finding Joy After Game of Thrones

Maisie Williams, best known for her role as Arya Stark in Game of Thrones, opens up about her difficult childhood, the challenges of early fame, and her recent turn toward happiness. In an interview, she discusses her upcoming role in Practical Magic 2, where she plays Antonia, the daughter of Sandra Bullock's character. Williams reflects on the 'hell' of her early twenties, which she attributes to the end of Game of Thrones, delayed teenage awkwardness, Covid, and an industry strike. She also speaks about her decision to speak publicly about her traumatic childhood on the Diary of a CEO podcast in 2022, revealing that she had a difficult relationship with her father and struggled with fear and ambition. Since 2023, she says every day has been better, crediting a shift toward self-care, including yoga, running, and spending time with her dog. She is currently dating and says she is in love, though she keeps details private. Williams is also focusing on her production company, Rapt, and is writing a dark comedy feature with co-founder Lowri Roberts. She shares advice from Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman about friendship with exes, and cites Kim Cattrall's mantra of not being anywhere she isn't enjoying herself as a guiding principle. The interview took place at a pub in Belgravia, London.