Game of Thrones author bemoans surge in fame

George RR Martin, author of the Game of Thrones series. Picture: Getty

GAME of Thrones writer George RR Martin has spoken of how fame has left him unable to walk the streets of Edinburgh without being pestered by fanatic followers.

Speaking after an appearance at the Edinburgh Book Festival, the 65-year-old author said: “A few years ago I came to Edinburgh with my wife and we were able to listen to the street musicians and go to plays and comedy performances and the military Tattoo. And, in the whole week we were here, maybe three people recognised me, and I was happy to sign an autograph for them.

“Now, three or four people recognise me every block. I can’t go out any more; I can’t walk the streets.

“And it’s great to have all these readers and fans who, for the most part, are very nice people, saying they love the books and the TV show.

“But there are so many of them and it just doesn’t end. Oh, and ‘selfies’! If I could clap my hands and burn out every camera phone in the world, I swear I’d do it.”

The writer also gave a Games of Thrones solution to Scottish independence. “I’ve suggested building a giant wall of ice between the two nations,” he quipped.