Five years after its release, the creators of Game of Thrones, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, have finally acknowledged the strong negative reaction to the show's infamous finale.
The trajectory of Game of Thrones can be viewed as a cautionary tale of pop culture: it experienced global popularity, exceptional storytelling, and meticulous production, only to ultimately disappoint in its concluding season.
A spiritual, high-fantasy successor to Lord of the Rings, the show became a cultural phenomenon, introducing George R.R. Martin’s unique language and mythology to mainstream audiences. However, after facing significant backlash, it faded into obscurity, preserved only in the memories of its devoted fans.
This year, we can look forward to the second season of House of the Dragon, a series that reignited audiences’ passion for the world of Westeros. The showrunners have also announced a new, epic series on Netflix, reflecting on the negative reaction to the show's final episodes.
Game of Thrones creators finally address Season 8 backlash
In a new interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Benioff and Weiss discussed the fervent reactions to Game of Thrones, particularly the infamous final season.
Benioff acknowledged that while he had hoped for universal love for his work, he recognized that not everyone would share the same sentiment. He advised against getting too caught up in seeking validation from public opinion, as it can consume one's entire life in a fruitless search for approval.
HBO
The finale of Game of Thrones Season 8 was so disliked by viewers that a petition was started titled: "Remake Game of Thrones Season 8 with competent writers." Unlike other campaigns that lose momentum quickly, this one is still gaining signatures, with a current total of 1.86 million.
Weiss explained that even extremely positive feedback can have a disconcerting and unsettling effect. He likened it to a drug, and when he and his writing partner stopped seeking feedback online, the overall stress level in their lives decreased dramatically.
While the online conversation about the show may have calmed down, it remains a topic of interest to many, with some fans still unhappy with the way it ended. Surprisingly, the reception from fans in person has been relatively calm and peaceful, contrary to expectations.
"When individuals recognize and respect each other as human beings, there is an inherent sense of decency. However, the shift from in-person interactions to online platforms often leads to a more confrontational dynamic," Weiss stated.
Discover more about the upcoming return of House of the Dragon Season 2 this summer, and also explore further details about 3 Body Problem.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan of Game of Thrones, I can't help but feel a mix of disappointment and frustration when reflecting on the controversial finale. The show had built up such an intricate and captivating world, with complex characters and compelling storylines, that the abrupt and unsatisfying conclusion left me feeling let down. It's understandable that the creators faced immense pressure to deliver a satisfying ending, but the execution fell short, leaving many fans, including myself, feeling like the journey wasn't worth the destination.
Despite the disappointment, I still hold a deep appreciation for the earlier seasons of Game of Thrones. The show's groundbreaking storytelling, stunning visuals, and memorable characters made it a truly unforgettable experience. While the finale may have tarnished the overall legacy of the series, I believe it's important to separate the瑕疵 from the brilliance and acknowledge the positive impact the show had on pop culture.