Somerset-born actress Maisie Williams, renowned for her role as Arya Stark in Game of Thrones, received an honorary doctorate from Bath Spa University, delivering an inspiring message to graduates during the ceremony.
At 29, Maisie reflected on her unconventional journey, having left Norton Hill School in Midsomer Norton at just 15 to pursue her acting career. “I want to say a massive thank you to my mum for letting me leave school to chase my dreams. It worked out in the end!” she said warmly.
The ceremony, held at the university’s Forum in Bath, saw Maisie awarded an honorary Doctorate of Arts by Vice-Chancellor Georgina Andrews, alongside 1,500 graduating students. A proud Bristol City fan, Maisie joked that the Bath Spa gowns resembled the colours of local football rivals Bristol Rovers—a light-hearted moment in an otherwise celebratory day.
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Maisie’s international acclaim stems from her portrayal of Arya Stark, which earned her two Emmy nominations and several Screen Actors Guild nods. She recently wrapped filming for Practical Magic 2, alongside Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock, and Joey King.
Beyond acting, Maisie founded Daisie, a social platform designed to connect creative minds across arts, fashion, film, music, and literature. She is also an advocate for Bristol’s MAZI Project, a charity combating food poverty.
Addressing the graduates, Maisie shared her empowering mantra: “Whenever I’m doing something that scares me—whether that’s a new skill, an audition, or an important meeting—I whisper to myself, ‘Just rock it.’ Let go of worries about being good enough or qualified enough and get in the zone. There is no one else like you.”
Looking ahead, Maisie stars alongside former Thrones co-star Lena Headey in the upcoming BBC Radio 4 drama Intimacy. The eight-part series, written and directed by Headey, delves into themes of consent, power, and vulnerability within the film industry. Maisie plays Bunny, an actor navigating these challenging issues.
On working in audio drama, Maisie appreciated the relaxed atmosphere: “No hair and makeup, no uncomfortable outfits, no early call time. Just pure vibes.”
Intimacy, also featuring Hannah Waddingham and Alison Steadman, debuts on BBC Radio 4 at 11 pm on Mondays from July 27 and will be available as a box set on BBC Sounds.