Kristian Nairn Opens Up About Overcoming Addiction Through Gaming

Kristian Nairn, renowned for his portrayal of Hodor in the acclaimed television series “Game of Thrones,” has offered fans a frank glimpse into his life and struggles in his newly released memoir. His book not only covers his career in acting, DJing, and drag performance, but also details a personal battle with drug addiction, revealing an unusual ally in his road to recovery: the online role-playing game “World of Warcraft” (WoW).

Nairn’s memoir recounts his early experiences in the entertainment industry up to his widespread recognition from “Game of Thrones.” However, a particularly poignant aspect of his story is his candid revelation about overcoming substance abuse. “I’m snorting so much coke that when I lift my head off the pillow, usually past midday, it’s still encrusted into the cotton like cardboard,” Nairn writes, describing the drug addiction that overtook his life.

The book details a turning point after a severe ketamine incident that led him to seek solace in Ireland’s Mourne Mountains. It was there that he used “World of Warcraft” as a tool for detoxification. “From dawn till dusk,” Nairn gamed, using it as a form of escape and therapy, allowing him to focus on healthier pursuits.

“If I look at the damage-results scale from addictions, a whole different scale [from drugs],” Nairn stated in an interview with Polygon. He explained the personal fulfillment he derives from the game, emphasizing his role as a “collector and a completist.” “The mounts and the gear and the transmogrifications for your character — you can change your clothes to look like whatever you want — that’s what I really go for,” he said, mentioning a preference for the non-competitive elements of the game.

Within his gaming journey, certain characters hold significant meaning for Nairn, including his controversial favorite, Sylvanas Windrunner. Despite recent criticisms about the character’s development, Nairn remains an ardent fan, even featuring the character’s voice in his voicemail greeting.

Nairn’s personal connection to “World of Warcraft” resonates deeply, reflecting how the online community and gameplay have helped balance his demanding life of travel as he continues to juggle roles as an actor and DJ. “I have a very small gaming laptop, which comes everywhere with me,” he notes. This mobile gaming setup serves as a constant companion and source of connection, reducing loneliness during his tours.

Beyond his dedication to WoW, Nairn reflects on his lifelong passion for gaming, reminiscing about iconic titles such as “Jet Set Radio Future,” “Pac-Man,” and “Street Fighter 2.” Notably, “World of Warcraft” stands out as a defining game, marking a twenty-year engagement that Nairn acknowledges will always hold the top spot in his gaming repertoire.