In 2016, "Game of Thrones" fans online went wild when they found out the meaning of Hodor’s name. In this excerpt from his memoir Beyond the Throne, Kristian Nairn tells the surprising story of what happened while he filmed it.

Game of Thrones” actor Kristian Nairn, who played the fan favorite character Hodor, sat down with NBC News’ Joe Fryer about his new book, “Beyond the Throne,” a memoir that shares behind-the-scenes stories from the hit show.

The actor talks about his new memoir, 'Beyond the Throne,' and tells PEOPLE about filming Hodor's "monumental" final scene

George R.R. Martin] made the very funny quip where I was talking about deadlines being stressful. He said, ‘I’m 12 years late, Kristian. I understand about deadlines.’”

I adore that boy. He’s the little brother I never had. I still feel that way. I think probably to the day we die we’ll be connected. … It was a wonderful thing.”

Game of Thrones’ alum Kristian Nairn opened up about his new memoir, ‘Beyond the Throne,’ in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly