Bringing back the epic atmosphere of Game of Thrones, the hit show's prequel House of the Dragon gave a completely new look at the familiar story, making new world-class stars out of its actors. However, some of the main cast faces were probably already familiar to many long before the first season of the series was released in 2022.
This also applies to Rhys Ifans, the British actor who played Ser Otto Hightower, Hand of three kings in the Targaryen dynasty and father of Queen Alicent, in House of the Dragon. Although the actor may indeed seem unrecognizable in the luxurious clothes of the HBO series, fans of the cult romantic comedies from the 2000s will immediately remember his previous and no less iconic role.
Long before House of the Dragon, Rhys Ifans played Spike from Notting Hill
Although some may find it hard to believe, the actor is truly a master of disguise – and before playing Otto Hightower, he was best known to the general public as Spike, William Tucker’s best friend in the 1999 romantic comedy Notting Hill.
The film centers on the same William Tucker, Hugh Grant’s character and the owner of a small guidebook shop in the heart of London’s prestigious Notting Hill. Trying to survive a difficult divorce from his wife, who left him for another man, William moves in with his rather odd friend Spike, but this doesn’t help much, and the hero’s life remains boring and ordinary – until successful Hollywood actress Anna Scott appears in it.
Paradoxically, Rhys Ifans' Spike is one of Notting Hill's best moments
One of the most famous romantic comedies and a cultural phenomenon, Notting Hill is a rather unrealistic love story between a simple bookshop owner and a world-famous movie star. And yet, the film skillfully balances the strange events that such an unusual situation entails with humor, thanks in large part to Rhys Ifans' character.
The actor merges with his character, giving the entire film perhaps its most memorable moments with the help of Spike's spontaneity, eccentricity and, to some extent, even impudence. And although Ifans played a minor role, it was Notting Hill that launched his future successful career, which also included a larger role in House of the Dragon.
