Fever Game of Thrones is indeed global. In the United States alone more than 14 million people watched the series. Even President Barack Obama became a huge fan.
Game of Thrones popularity worldwide impact the economic development in Northern Ireland, the country of shooting this series. Among others is the increase in tourist arrivals and employment.
Game of Thrones shooting is done at the Giant Causeway, Northern Ireland. Many tourists who want to tour diving in this area after watching Game of Thrones.
"The demand continues to rise. They are very fond of Game of Thrones. Fact, not least among those who have never come to Northern Ireland, and finally to here as Game of Thrones," said Christine McComb, owner of Belfast Coach Company, a provider of tourism services as quoted by the BBC, Sunday (11/05/2014).
5 years since the shooting, Game of Thrones has a direct economic impact valued at 82 million pounds, or more than Rp 1.5 trillion.
In addition, Game of Thrones is also adding jobs in Northern Ireland. There are 900 permanent workers, 5,700 casual workers, and about 2 million jobs created because of this series.
"Anything that supports Game of Thrones is good for the city," said Mairtin O Muilleoir, Mayor of Belfast.
Moyra Lock, Marketing Director of Northern Ireland Screen, stated that the economic impact of Game of Thrones was remarkable. "Not just money, but the creation of added value. Guys here can improve their abilities in various fields," he said.
