Article Overview
HBO has six new Game of Thrones shows in development, showcasing the network's commitment to expand the franchise and capitalize on its popularity.
Different elements of the Game of Thrones universe will be delved into through the introduction of new shows. This includes a sequel series focused on Jon Snow, animated spinoffs, and tales set in various time periods and locations within Westeros. The initial spinoff, House of the Dragon, has garnered positive reception and shattered HBO's viewership records, indicating a high demand for additional content within the Game of Thrones universe.
Game of Thrones concluded in 2019, but HBO is expanding the world of Westeros with six new shows in development, alongside the successful House of the Dragon. Adapted from George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire book series, Game of Thrones captivated global audiences for eight seasons. Despite the divisive reception of season 8, the fictional realm remains ripe with potential for television. With the ongoing streaming competition, having established properties to build upon is crucial. That's why Disney+ has a robust lineup of Marvel and Star Wars shows in the works. While Game of Thrones may not reach the same level of popularity, it remains a significant draw for current and potential HBO subscribers. This expansion is not only a smart business move, but it also allows for countless stories to be told within Martin's intricately crafted universe. The exact number of new Game of Thrones shows that will come to fruition is uncertain, but HBO has outlined their plans for each series currently in development.
The Jon Snow Sequel Series
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight
In June 2022, HBO unveiled an exciting new Game of Thrones series focusing on the journey of Kit Harington's Jon Snow. The show picks up after the conclusion of Game of Thrones, exploring Jon's necessary act of betrayal and murder of Daenerys, which leads to his exile beyond the Wall. With his own Targaryen lineage and the prevailing belief that, within the Seven Kingdoms' monarchy-driven system, he deserved the throne, there are ample opportunities to delve into the poignant aftermath of his departure. Additionally, there is potential to reintroduce other beloved Stark characters, such as Arya once she discovers what lies to the west of Westeros. Furthermore, the series presents a clear chance to further explore the captivating character of Tormund Giantsbane, a central figure in Jon's Wildling companions.
The upcoming Game of Thrones spinoff, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight, has been officially announced. This new show will be based on the popular Tales of Dunk and Egg stories. However, author George R.R. Martin felt the need to change the title in order to cater to fans who are not familiar with the Dunk and Egg novellas. Currently, there are three published Dunk & Egg stories: The Hedge Knight, The Sworn Sword, and The Mystery Knight.
Set approximately 90 years before the events of Game of Thrones, the narratives in the stories are somewhat lighter and less grandiose compared to the main series, but they are still captivating. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight is centered around Dunk, originally a hedge knight who later becomes Ser Duncan the Tall and eventually the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard. Dunk's squire, Egg, will one day emerge as King Aegon V Targaryen and rule over Westeros. Although Martin intends to release anywhere from six to 12 novellas, his writing outside the series will likely be put on the backburner due to his involvement in this adaptation.
The Golden Empire and Game of Thrones Animated Spinoff
Since January 2021, two adult animated spin-offs of Game of Thrones have been in the early stages of development. The animated "Histories & Lore" DVD and Blu-ray extras delve into the history of Westeros, providing a foundation for this new show. However, the upcoming series will have a much broader scope. While The Golden Empire has a defined storyline, there is limited information available about the other Game of Thrones spin-off.
The animated spinoffs of Game of Thrones, including the second show based on the Yi Ti dynasty of Essos, which is George R.R. Martin's version of Imperial China, are anticipated by fans. With the extensive use of visual effects in the original series, it makes sense for HBO Max to explore animated shows as they provide a seamless platform for showcasing CGI-heavy elements like dragons and direwolves. Although there is little information available about The Golden Empire in terms of its storyline, both of these animated spinoffs will be welcomed additions to the Game of Thrones universe.
The Sea Snake
A new Game of Thrones show is currently in the works, titled The Sea Snake. Serving as a potential spinoff of a spinoff, the series will revolve around the adventures of Corlys Velaryon, also known as the Sea Snake. Steve Toussaint portrays this captivating character in House of the Dragon, and HBO is banking on his popularity by creating a show based on his remarkable sea voyages. Not only did the Sea Snake explore the well-known regions of Essos, familiar to Game of Thrones viewers, but he also ventured into lesser-known territories like Yi Ti, accumulating immense riches along the way. The creative team behind the series includes Bryan Heller, one of the co-creators of HBO's acclaimed show Rome.
With House of the Dragon recently receiving a Golden Globe, interest in the new Game of Thrones show has reached an all-time high. Lord Corlys Velaryon plays a significant role in the series, and as the Dance of the Dragons progresses, his loyalties will undoubtedly be tested. As House of the Dragon moves into its second season, curiosity about Corlys Velaryon and his backstory will only continue to grow, especially since House Velaryon, which was previously unexplored, is now gaining considerable attention. Game of Thrones fans are relatively unfamiliar with this ancient house, as there were no notable Velaryon characters in the original series. Although the Velaryon line essentially dies out with the Dance of the Dragons, it is only fair that the Velaryon family gets their moment in the spotlight.
10,000 Ships
Princess Nymeria of the Rhoyne features in another upcoming Game of Thrones show. The Valyrian Freehold had annihilated the Rhoynar a millennium prior to the events depicted in Game of Thrones. This catastrophic event compelled Nymeria to lead her people towards safety and liberation. Legend has it that she commanded a fleet of 10,000 vessels to sail along the Rhoyne river, ultimately escaping Essos. Though the actual number may be exaggerated, it was undeniably an astounding expedition.
Nymeria and her fleet embarked on a journey spanning several years in search of a secure haven, propelled by the need to escape the disease-stricken lands of Naath. After an arduous expedition, they ultimately found solace in Dorne. Lord Mors Martell became Nymeria's husband, and united, the couple fervently strived to establish dominion over Dorne. Their relentless efforts led to the transformation of Dorne into the principality recognized during the events of Game of Thrones, featuring princes and princesses as its esteemed rulers rather than kings and queens. Nymeria's captivating tale is ingrained in the rich tapestry of Westeros history, and its connection to Game of Thrones is enhanced by Arya's direwolf, bestowed with the very name of the illustrious princess. The highly anticipated series, 10,000 Ships, will be penned by Amanda Segel, known for her work on Person of Interest. While the talented creative team for this production is yet to be confirmed, the scriptwriting duties are in capable hands.
Flea Bottom Was Canceled
King's Landing's Red Keep was a prominent feature in the show, but there was another area in Flea Bottom that was intended to take the spotlight in a Game of Thrones spinoff. Flea Bottom, a slum notorious for its poverty, crime, and abundance of brothels and seedy drinking establishments, served as the birthplace of significant characters like Davos Seaworth and Gendry. The potential storyline for the Flea Bottom spinoff remains unknown, as it would have been more original rather than based on Martin's previous works. Nonetheless, it could have offered a unique perspective on life in Westeros. HBO had been considering various Game of Thrones spinoffs, but, for undisclosed reasons, this particular one was ultimately canceled.
Why Bloodmoon Was Canceled
In the summer of 2018, HBO announced their plans to produce a prequel to Game of Thrones, set 8,000 years before the original series. The project, titled Bloodmoon, was led by writer Jane Goldman and featured Naomi Watts in a prominent role. The show aimed to explore the origins of the White Walkers and the events of The Long Night. However, HBO made a sudden decision to remove the show from their lineup. This was primarily because the network was concerned about the show's potential popularity compared to the main Game of Thrones series.
Essentially, there was very little existing material to draw upon when it came to developing the narrative for the Age of Heroes and The Long Night. In George R.R. Martin's novels, The Long Night is only briefly mentioned and is considered a somewhat unreliable legend. Additionally, Game of Thrones' final season received significant criticism, and the series experienced a decline in quality starting from the fifth season. Instead of repeating past mistakes with Bloodmoon by inventing a new story, the show creators opted for a different approach. They decided to adapt Fire and Blood, a well-established tale that delves into the Targaryen civil war. This adaptation is now known as House of the Dragon.
The Game Of Thrones Spinoffs Have Started Well
House of the Dragon shattered viewership records for HBO, leading to the HBO Max service crashing upon release. With 10 gripping episodes, the first season captured the downfall of the formidable House Targaryen. The overwhelming success of House of the Dragon reveals the insatiable hunger of audiences for more Game of Thrones content. This new spinoff has quickly become a sensation, captivating both loyal fans and newcomers alike. While distinct from its predecessor, House of the Dragon has set a high standard for all future spinoffs.
Game Of Thrones Spin-Offs That Fans Want (But That Are Not In Development)
Despite the multiple Game of Thrones shows currently in development, fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of additional spinoffs. Specifically, they hope to follow beloved characters from the original series on new adventures. Arya Stark's journey after the Game of Thrones finale, in which she sailed off to explore the unknown lands west of Westeros, presents a promising opportunity for a spinoff. This would allow the show's timeline to progress without the need to delve into the storylines of other characters from the original series.
George R.R. Martin has created an intriguing history for Westeros, including events such as Robert's Rebellion, which fans are eager to explore in more detail. Additionally, the initial battle between the First Men and the White Walkers in The Long Night could provide a horror-focused spinoff. However, the original series may have undermined the appeal of such stories. In the case of Robert's Rebellion, much has already been revealed, including significant plot twists, making a series on this topic potentially redundant. Furthermore, the White Walkers ultimately proved to be less captivating than initially anticipated, dampening fans' enthusiasm for further exploration of their storyline.
Editor's P/S
As a passionate fan of Game of Thrones, I am thrilled about the development of six new spin-off shows. The world created by George R.R. Martin is incredibly rich and complex, and there are so many untold stories that can be explored. I am particularly excited about the Jon Snow sequel series, as I believe there is much more to his story that can be told.
Additionally, the animated series has the potential to bring the world of Westeros to life in a new and exciting way. I am also intrigued by the idea of exploring different time periods and locations within Westeros, as it will allow fans to see new aspects of this fascinating world. Overall, I believe that these new spin-off shows have the potential to be just as successful as the original series, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for the Game of Thrones franchise.