The Hound Actor: Rory McCann and Sandor Clegane
Rory McCann portrayed the Hound in Game of Thrones. Explore the role, actor’s other credits and facts often confused with the character.
The Hound Actor: Rory McCann and Sandor Clegane
The Hound in Game of Thrones is played by Scottish actor Rory McCann. His character's full name is Sandor Clegane, and the intimidating nickname belongs to the fictional fighter—not the performer. McCann also has film, television and voice credits beyond the HBO fantasy series.
Sandor Clegane and his nickname
Sandor serves as a formidable warrior whose complicated morality makes him more than a conventional villain. His relationship with Arya Stark is particularly important: the two characters travel together, challenge one another and occasionally reveal unexpected vulnerability. Because their journey spans multiple seasons, descriptions of his later fate should be labeled as spoilers.
The Hound's conflict with his brother Gregor Clegane, known as the Mountain, shapes much of his backstory. They are brothers within the story; the actors playing them are not being described as real-life siblings. The difference matters when searches for 'the Hound actor' appear alongside searches for 'the Mountain actor.'
Rory McCann beyond Game of Thrones
McCann plays Michael 'Lurch' Armstrong in the British comedy Hot Fuzz, a far cry from Sandor's medieval-style fighting and political entanglements. In Jumanji: The Next Level, he portrays the antagonist Jurgen the Brutal. Those performances showcase different tones and character demands.
He has appeared in additional films and has supplied voices to animated productions. An actor's complete résumé can change over time, so it is sensible to distinguish released titles from announced projects.
Where to start
For the defining role, watch the character's development across Game of Thrones rather than relying on isolated fight clips. For a lighter counterpoint, Hot Fuzz offers a very different kind of performance. The main takeaway is simple: Rory McCann is the real-world actor; Sandor 'the Hound' Clegane is the fictional character.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Hound's real name?
In the story he is Sandor Clegane; the actor who portrays him is Rory McCann.
Is Rory McCann in Jumanji?
Yes. He plays Jurgen the Brutal in Jumanji: The Next Level.