Game Of Thrones role saved me from a life of prostitution, says Josephine Gillan

'I had no idea how much it would change my life,' says Gillan

Gillian will be appearing in season seven and has also filmed two independent films outside of Game of Thrones (Instagram / Josephine Gillan)

Game of Thrones actor Josephine Gillan has spoken candidly about working in the prostitution industry prior to gaining a role on the hit HBO series.

Gillan, who plays the role of Marei, said Game of Thrones provided her with a brilliant opportunity and changed her life.

Gillan made her first appearance in season two as a prostitute and later appeared in seasons three, four, five and six. Gillan will be appearing in season seven and has also filmed two independent films outside of Game of Thrones.

“Game Of Thrones saved me from a life of prostitution, and has made me a much stronger person,” she told The Mail on Sunday.

“I was working as a w**** and at the same time making X-rated movies, using the name Sophie O’Brien, when I saw an advert on a website for actresses in the film industry,” she continued.

“They were looking for young women with natural breasts and no tattoos, who didn’t mind being filmed naked. So I immediately sent in a picture,” Gillan added. “They wrote back that they wanted me and I was thrilled because it was an amazing opportunity to do some proper acting. But I had no idea how much it would change my life.”