Yara Greyjoy would be justified in feeling a bit ticked off at brother Theon for leaving her high and dry to get kidnapped by their evil uncle Euron in last weekend's episode of Game of Thrones.
And yet, actress Gemma Whelan says that her character understands why brother Theon (Alfie Allen) jumped overboard rather than try to save her during the battle with Euron's forces.
"I think she she understands that he probably couldn't have done anything at this point. Euron is so powerful. He has me," she told The Hollywood Reporter. "If Theon takes even one step forward, Euron can kill me. I'm not currency to him. I think she probably understands he has no choice. But I also think she's very upset that he's having flashbacks, and she understands there's a lot going on for him.
"I don't think she feels like he's abandoning her. I think she feels like he's having a terribly traumatic time, there's nothing he can do, and maybe — just maybe — he's jumping ship now so he can come back and do some good. Ultimately, I think she's devastated.
"She's completely helpless now, and so is Theon. She's in the hands of her psychopath of an uncle, and she has no idea what's going to happen next. She's very fearful, but doesn't want to show that she's defeated."
Whelan went on to say: "One thing about Yara that we've seen throughout the seasons is that she really loves her brother. She really stands for family. She's tried and tried to bring him back. She really thought he was back, and she's heartbroken that he's not quite back, but I don't think she blames him for it.
"Even though they did have that conversation in the brothel last season: 'Grow a pair!' I do think she understands. I don't think she's happy about it, but it's beyond her reach now. She now has to get on with the matter at hand."
Whelan also admitted that Yara faces a grim future.
"It's not looking good," she conceded, adding: "But I can't say anything else!"
Game of Thrones continues on Sunday 30 July. Watch a teaser for season 7 episode 3, 'The Queen's Justice' below:
