SOUTHEND actress Nathalie Emmanuel has paid tribute to her “really talented” Games of Thrones co-star Darren Kent following his death.
Mr Kent, from Westcliff, passed away this month at just 36, sparking an outpouring of emotion from across Southend.
Ms Emmanuel, who is also from Southend, worked alongside Mr Kent during filming for hit show Game of Thrones, where he played Goatherd, a grieving father in the season four episode The Children.
To film the show, he jetted from Southend Airport to Belfast International to join the cast and crew, and onboard was 34-year-old Ms Emmanuel, who played the servant to Queen Daenerys.
She said they spoke the whole way through the flight as he offered her advice on acting and they spoke about her rising career.
She told the Echo: “I’m so sad that Darren is not here anymore.
“I knew him before Game of Thrones as he has done previous projects with my sister Louise.
“He was a very sweet, talented and passionate guy who was always so professional in his work.
“He’s only a couple of years older than me and had so much more life to give.
“I’m so sorry for his family, friends and anyone who had the pleasure and privilege to know him.
“He’ll be deeply missed.”
His cause of death is unknown, but the Westcliff legend battled and overcame osteoporosis, arthritis and an extremely rare skin disorder throughout his life.
According to Ms Emmanuel, he was “not quiet” about his health issues and “didn’t let it hold him back from chasing his dreams”.
She added: “Darren was on my flight, and it was like a nice reunion. We talked about the show, what we’ve been up to. The warm and friendly chat is one of my standout memories.
“When we were on set, his performance was just so excellent, and it was clear he had a passion for creativity and the arts.
“It was a real pleasure to share a scene with him.”
As well as Game of Thrones, he appeared in BBC soap EastEnders and movie Snow White and the Huntsman.
Darren was patron of Equal People Performing Arts where he supported disabled, non-disabled and disadvantaged people enjoy performing arts.
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