Video Game Comic: All about a fantasy world at IFA with an unexpected visitor
Isaac Hempstead-Wright, the actor who portrays Bran Stark in the famous TV saga, attended the seventh edition of IFA, the Alicante Video Game and Comic Fair. The 23-year-old British actor rose to global recognition for bringing to life one of the most pivotal young figures in the Game of Thrones universe. Fans in Alicante and across the region gathered during the Saturday event to meet Bran Stark in person, capture photos, and secure autographs, prints, and even Funko figures. The meetup drew a crowd of about two hundred people who embraced the rare chance to connect with a member of the series’ enduring cast. [Attribution: Alicante IFA organizers]
“I hope to discover Alicante tonight,” said Hempstead-Wright, who served as a special guest this year at the Alicante comics fair. He explained that he had never visited the provincial capital before and that his last visit to Spain had been to Seville. He expressed affection for Spain, calling it a special place, and noted that he had just arrived the previous night, leaving him with little time to explore. “I hope to explore Alicante tonight, but I don’t yet know where to go,” he added, hinting at the excitement of a spontaneous evening in a new city. [Attribution: IFA Alicante coverage]
Also present on stage and in casual conversations, Hempstead-Wright conveyed how supported he felt from the morning’s attendees. He appreciated the warmth of the fans who lined up to greet him, saying, “People are so nice. I feel the affection for everything we’ve done over the years, and it creates a wonderful feeling.” This sentiment underscored the strong connection between the actor and a devoted international audience that has followed Bran Stark since the early seasons. [Attribution: IFA Alicante coverage]
Regarding the broader Game of Thrones universe, the actor referenced the prequel series House of the Dragon, noting that he hadn’t started watching it yet but was intrigued by the stories expanding beyond the original saga. The show, which premiered at the end of last August, has continued to engage fans with new narratives and characters, reinforcing the enduring appeal of the fictional world. Hempstead-Wright’s comments reflected a fascination with fresh perspectives while recognizing the lasting impact of the original eight-season run. [Attribution: IFA Alicante coverage]
Those who could not attend the morning meet-and-greet had another chance to meet Bran Stark later in the day, with a session scheduled from 18:00 to 20:00 and again on Sunday afternoon. The event continued to celebrate the convergence of comics, cinema, and video games as part of Alicante’s prominent festival calendar. [Attribution: IFA Alicante coverage]
more activities
In addition to Hempstead-Wright’s appearance, the convention highlighted a lineup of artists and guests from the worlds of comics and film who would participate in conferences, talks, and discussions across the festival. The roster included notable Marvel cartoonists and illustrators such as Salva Espín (Deadpool, The Incredible Hulk, Wolverine), Daniel Acuña (Green Lantern, Flash, X-Men), and Ana Murillo, better known as Aneke, alongside veteran artist Claudio Castellini. The event also featured Juanra Fernández, a filmmaker and screenwriter behind Rocambola, and creator Javier Olivares, all contributing to a vibrant program that explored the crossovers between comics, cinema, and gaming. [Attribution: Alicante IFA organizers]