Lena Headey Biography, Net Worth, Career – From 300 Warrior Queen to Game of Thrones Icon

Lena Headey is a British actress best known for her role as Cersei Lannister in HBO’s Game of Thrones. With a career spanning over three decades, she has starred in critically acclaimed films and TV series, earning multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations.

Quick Facts

Full NameLena Kathren Headey
ProfessionActress
Birth DateOctober 3, 1973
Age52 (as of 2025)
Birth PlaceHamilton, Bermuda
NationalityBritish
Known ForCersei Lannister in Game of Thrones, Queen Gorgo in 300
EthnicityEnglish
Zodiac SignLibra
Height & Weight5’5” (166 cm), ~54 kg
Hair ColorDark Brown
Eye ColorGreen
EducationShelley College, West Yorkshire
ReligionRaised Anglican
Marital StatusMarried
SpousesPeter Loughran (2007–2013), Marc Menchaca (2022–present)
Children2
FamilyParents: Sue & John Headey; one younger brother
HobbiesTattoos, yoga, animal rights activism
Current WorkDivine Blood (2025), voice acting
Years Active1992–present
Net Worth~$12 million (2025)

Early Life & Education

Lena Headey was born in Hamilton, Bermuda, where her father was stationed as a police officer. The family later moved to Yorkshire, England. She developed an interest in acting during school plays and was discovered at age 17, leading to her first film role in Waterland (1992).


Career Journey

Early Career

  • Appeared in The Remains of the Day (1993).
  • Gained recognition in The Brothers Grimm (2005).
  • Breakthrough as Queen Gorgo in 300 (2006) and 300: Rise of an Empire (2014).

Game of Thrones (2011–2019)

  • Cast as Cersei Lannister, one of the most iconic TV villains.
  • Earned five Primetime Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe nomination.
  • Became one of the highest‑paid actresses on TV, earning $1.1 million per episode in later seasons.

Other Work

  • Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles (2008–2009).
  • Dredd (2012), Pride and Prejudice and Zombies (2016).
  • Voice roles in Trollhunters and Masters of the Universe: Revelation.
  • Upcoming: Divine Blood (2025).

Personal Life

Headey married musician Peter Loughran in 2007; they divorced in 2013. She married actor Marc Menchaca in 2022. She has two children and is known for her love of tattoos and outspoken personality.


Awards & Achievements

  • 5× Primetime Emmy Award nominations (Game of Thrones)
  • Golden Globe nomination (Game of Thrones)
  • Saturn Award nomination (300)

Physical Statistics

AttributeMeasurement
Height5’5” (166 cm)
Weight~54 kg (119 lbs)
Hair ColorDark Brown
Eye ColorGreen
Body TypeSlim, Athletic
Shoe Size7 (US)
Distinctive FeaturesMultiple tattoos, sharp cheekbones, expressive green eyes

Quotes

  • “There is something about Cersei that is very human. She’s a survivor.”
  • “I’m not interested in being famous. I just want to do good work.”

Controversies

  • Reportedly had a strained relationship with Game of Thrones co‑star Jerome Flynn, leading to them avoiding scenes together.
  • Sued by her former agency in 2022 over commission disputes related to Thor: Love and Thunder (she was cut from the film).

Favorites

  • Food: Vegetarian dishes
  • Hobby: Tattoos, yoga
  • Cause: Animal rights, mental health awareness

Salary & Net Worth

  • Net Worth (2025): ~$12 million
  • Earned up to $1.1 million per episode for Game of Thrones.

Interesting Facts

  • Has multiple tattoos, often visible in photoshoots.
  • Close friends with emilia clarke.
  • Known for her dry wit and candid interviews.
  • Once admitted she lost roles for refusing to flirt with casting directors.

Social Media Links


FAQs

Q1: What is Lena Headey’s most famous role?
Cersei Lannister in Game of Thrones.

Q2: How many awards has Lena Headey won?
She has received multiple Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe nomination.

Q3: Who is Lena Headey married to?
She married actor Marc Menchaca in 2022.

Q4: What is Lena Headey’s net worth?
Estimated at $12 million (2025).


Conclusion

Lena Headey’s career is defined by versatility, resilience, and iconic performances. From 300 to Game of Thrones, she has proven her talent across genres and continues to be a powerful presence in Hollywood.

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