When HBO’s A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms premiered, one detail stood out immediately: the towering presence of Ser Duncan the Tall, played by Peter Claffey. Known as “Dunk,” the hedge knight’s unusual height is not only a defining trait in George R. R. Martin’s Dunk & Egg novellas but also a central part of his identity in the prequel series.
Dunk’s Canonical Height
In Martin’s source material, Ser Duncan the Tall is described as being an inch shy of seven feet tall—approximately 6-foot-11. This makes him one of the tallest warriors in Westeros, second only to Gregor Clegane, “The Mountain,” who is nearly eight feet tall in the books. Dunk’s height often earns him jokes and insults, but it also helps him stand out in crowded tourney grounds.
Peter Claffey’s Real-Life Stature
Peter Claffey, a former professional rugby player, stands at 6-foot-5. While not quite Dunk’s canonical height, Claffey’s imposing frame was close enough to capture the essence of the character. According to series creator Ira Parker, only actors over 6-foot-5 were considered for the role. “The book character is 6-foot-11. After meeting Peter, it really couldn’t have been anyone else,” Parker told USA Today.
Training for the Role
Claffey’s size even made him taller than some of the horses he rides in the series. He underwent rigorous training with stunt horses to prepare for the role, developing a bond with the horse playing Chestnut. “He’s ridiculously well-trained,” Claffey said. “Mine isn’t as big as a war horse that would make Dunk look epic. But it is kind of endearing to look at Dunk being too big for his horse.”
Height as Characterization
Dunk’s towering stature is more than a physical trait—it reflects his awkwardness and sincerity. His earnest personality contrasts with the bravado of other knights, making him relatable despite his size. His dynamic with Egg (Dexter Sol Ansell), the clever stable boy, is set to become the emotional core of the series, highlighting how Dunk’s gentle nature balances his intimidating frame.
A Hero Defined by More Than Size
While Dunk’s height sets him apart, his resilience and compassion define him as a hero. His ability to keep getting up after being knocked down—both literally and figuratively—cements his place in Westeros lore. As new episodes air every Sunday on HBO, fans will see how Dunk’s size and sincerity shape his journey in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms.
