In a new interview, Game of Thrones actor Peter Dinklage discusses the character of Tyrion and what makes him such a standout character.

Speaking to NPR, Dinklage reveals that early on in his career, he would turn down a lot of roles because they portrayed him as “bearded and pointy-shoed” due to his height. But, as he explains, Game of Thrones is different:

It would be stupid if he weren’t addressed as an ‘imp’ in this world, given the surroundings. It does address the size issue, but it doesn’t knock you over the head with it. Because you don’t really need to.

He also describes Tyrion and what made him take on the role:

This character, Tyrion Lannister, isn’t that way at all. …What immediately attracted me to this — any actor will tell you the same thing, no matter what part it is, it just has to be very well-rounded. He knows he has no skills with the sword, and this is a world that is really deeply violent. Military rules. He would not be able to survive in that world, given his own strength. So he beats people to the punchline — he’s entertaining.

Read the full interview with Dinklage at NPR.