HBO’s "Game of Thrones" has tapped actors to fill some of the second season’s biggest roles — the sorceress Melisandre, the would-be king Stannis and his "Onion Knight" Davos, reports EW.com’s Inside TV blog.

Melisandre, a priestess with magical powers who worships a fire god, will be played by Dutch actress Carice van Houten, who has appeared in the films "Repo Men" and "Valkyrie," the story notes.

Stannis, who is King Robert’s eldest younger brother, will be played by British actor Stephen Dillane, who is most familiar to U.S. audiences for his role as Thomas Jefferson in HBO’s "John Adams.” Stannis believes himself to be the rightful heir to the Iron Throne, although his lack of humor and authoritarian moral code draw few allies, the story notes. Stannis becomes a follower of Melisandre’s religion, the piece adds.

Irish actor Liam Cunningham has been tapped as Davos Seaworth, the Onion Knight, a separate EW story notes. Davos, a onetime smuggler, is now a loyal subject of Stannis’ and is a reader favorite for his combination of humility and good sense. Cunningham recently appeared in the canceled Starz series "Camelot," the story notes.