Joseph Quinn‘s rise from Game of Thrones to Fantastic Four is a story that highlights how small roles can shape major careers in Hollywood. Set to star as Johnny Storm in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Quinn’s journey began years prior when he left a memorable impression on director Matt Shakman during their Game of Thrones collaboration.
First Meeting on Game of Thrones Sets Foundation
Back in Game of Thrones Season 7, Episode 4, titled “The Spoils of War,” Joseph Quinn played Koner, a Winterfell guardsman tasked with guarding the gate as Arya Stark, portrayed by Maisie Williams, made her long-awaited return home. Although Quinn’s role consisted of a single line, the moment became symbolic of Arya’s triumphant homecoming, a heavily anticipated event for both viewers and characters within the series.
During a recent conversation with Empire Magazine, Quinn reminisced about his brief appearance on the acclaimed show.
“I did a kind of cough and a spit.”
—Joseph Quinn, actor. Despite downplaying the importance of his work on Game of Thrones, it was apparent to those behind the camera that Quinn delivered much more than just a simple performance.
Director Matt Shakman, who helmed “The Spoils of War,” shared his own recollections, making it clear that Quinn’s presence left a lasting mark on him.
“I was impressed by him, and thought, ‘Someday I’ll work with him again,’”
—Matt Shakman, director. Shakman’s vision for the role of Johnny Storm went far beyond the traditional image of the superhero as merely a charming risk-taker. He emphasized his search for an actor capable of bringing emotional complexity to the famous Marvel character.
“I was interested in a Johnny Storm who was more than just a ladies’ man and adrenaline junkie. I was looking for somebody who could be a dreamer. And I think Joe is an incredibly alive, spontaneous actor.”
—Matt Shakman, director.
From Supporting Roles to Blockbuster Stardom
Though his time on Game of Thrones was brief, Quinn’s performance captured the tension and wonder of Arya’s return to Winterfell. The scene needed an actor who could embody the skepticism, protectiveness, and eventual awe that the Northern people felt in that pivotal moment. Even with just one dismissive line—prompting Arya to “f-ck off” at the gate—Quinn managed to communicate the gravity of the homecoming and his subsequent realization of her importance, which resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Joseph Quinn’s filmography has expanded greatly since those early days at Winterfell. Today, many fans may no longer recall his stint alongside Arya Stark, as he has taken on more prominent roles that brought him global recognition. Quinn’s portrayal of Eddie Munson in Stranger Things cemented his status as a breakout star, while his performances in A Quiet Place: Day One and as Emperor Geta in Gladiator II further demonstrated his versatility.
Now, at age 30, Quinn stands on the brink of an even larger platform, poised to ignite the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Johnny Storm, also known as The Human Torch. The shift from supporting character in a colossal fantasy series to a leading superhero underscores the unpredictability and excitement of acting careers in modern Hollywood.
Reimagining Johnny Storm for a New Generation
Chris Evans previously embodied Johnny Storm in the earlier Fantastic Four films, imprinting the character with a bold, cocky energy. For The Fantastic Four: First Steps, both Matt Shakman and Joseph Quinn are seeking to delve deeper into Johnny’s traits, aiming to showcase a more nuanced, multidimensional version of the character.
Historically, Johnny’s loud bravado and impulsiveness overshadowed the layers lying beneath the surface in both comics and film. Shakman sees the opportunity to highlight Johnny’s imagination, vulnerability, and aspirations—a take that sets this new adaptation apart from its cinematic predecessors. The director’s early admiration for Quinn’s spontaneity and vitality as an actor played directly into his vision for this iteration of The Human Torch. This creative direction also suggests that the character will play a key role in shaping the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The importance of casting in superhero films cannot be overstated. With so many iconic figures populating the MCU, the choice to tap Joseph Quinn, whose first impression came from a single Game of Thrones scene, signals confidence in his ability to bring new life to Johnny Storm. The anticipation is bolstered by Quinn’s demonstrated range, from the haunted look of a Winterfell guard to the electric energy of Stranger Things’ Eddie Munson.
Ahead of The Fantastic Four: First Steps
The Fantastic Four: First Steps is scheduled to premiere in U.S. theaters on July 25, aiming to introduce audiences to a new family dynamic within Marvel’s storied franchise. The chemistry between cast members, including headline star Joseph Quinn, will be crucial in making the Fantastic Four relevant to both loyal followers and newcomers to the MCU. With Matt Shakman behind the camera, viewers can expect a blend of spectacle, character-driven drama, and a renewed vision for Marvel’s first family.
This latest chapter in Joseph Quinn’s career marks not just a leap for the actor himself, but also serves as a testament to how smaller roles can resonate far beyond their screen time. For Quinn, playing Koner at the gates of Winterfell was not just a footnote, but rather the start of a dramatic ascent toward blockbuster success and a starring turn as one of Marvel’s most enduring heroes.
