AceShowbiz -

"Game of Thrones" has found an actor to take an important role as Mance Rayder. The wildling king, who has been mentioned throughout the second season of the hit series, will be portrayed by Ciaran Hinds in the upcoming third season.

Rayder was once a member of the Night's Watch before he abandoned his post and later becomes the King Beyond the Wall. He unites all the wildlings and leads them to attack the Wall from the south. In the season 2 finale, Jon Snow was being taken to meet him.

The role will bring back Hinds to HBO. The Irish actor previously portrayed Gaius Julius Caesar on the network's historical drama series "Rome". His latest big-screen credits include "The Woman in Black", "Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance" and "John Carter".

Mance Rayder is only one of characters that will make their first appearance on the TV series. Wildling raider Orel, Jojen & Meera Reed, The Blackfish and The Queen of Thorns are among them confirmed to be featured in the third season, with the actors who portray the characters having been announced during the San Diego Comic-Con in July.

"Game of Thrones" season 3 is scheduled to debut on March 31, 2013.