Between René Redzepi’s Noma and Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau stands as one of Denmark’s crown jewels. The actor from the small town of Rudkøbing became a national sensation at 24 with his lead role in Ole Bornedal’s acclaimed 1994 horror film, Nightwatch. But it was his dazzling part in Game of Thrones—as Jaime Lannister, the cocky brother and paramour of the queen—that secured him a place on the world stage. Now Coster-Waldau’s third act is less antihero and more Good Samaritan in An Optimist’s Guide to the Planet. The show recalls Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown in its international journeys but trades recipes for stories of inspiring individuals tackling the climate crisis. To celebrate the release of its second season, Coster-Waldau shares his key components to the good life. —Carolina de Armas
Airport: Narsarsuaq International Airport. Then I’ll know the escape worked.
Alibi: Wow, this questionnaire took a dark turn quickly.
Bedtime: “Story, please!”
Bike: Is the best way to learn about a new city.
BirthdayS: My daughters’.
Breakfast: “What? I thought it was included.”
Child: -ish ways are overrated in adults.
Cocktail: Why the hell not?
Diet: No, thanks.
Dress: Just doesn’t do anything for my figure.
Enemy: Don’t think I ever met one.
Escape: Igaliku, Greenland.
Family: “First!”
Fit: Is better thrown than had.
Flaw: Imagine if it was only one! I am afraid you need to add an s.
Good-bye: “Candle in the Wind,” by Elton John, is a great song.
Hotel: Alfonso XIII, in Seville, Spain.
Indulgence: See above.
Last Meal: Preferably not on a flight.
Nikolaj’s Essentials
