George R.R. Martin, the author of “Game of Thrones,” has revealed that the series adaptation centered on the kingdoms of Westeros was originally planned for at least ten seasons.
With the release of the long-awaited prequel, “The House of the Dragon,” fans are excited to return to George R.R. Martin’s world.
In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, the author of “A Song of Fire and Ice” discussed his vision for the prequel as well as his lack of control over the franchise. Martin revealed that he had campaigned for more seasons of “Game of Thrones” to live up to the storytelling and development of his book series.
He explained:
“I was saying it needs to be 10 seasons at least and maybe 12, 13. I lost that one.”
Finally, the director stated that he had little influence over HBO’s decision. Although HBO’s “Game of Thrones” was a huge success, earning Emmys and a massive fanbase over the years, co-creators David Benioff and D. B. Weiss called it quits, after eight seasons.
Many fans share Martin’s vision of the show feeling rushed after the season 8 finale of “Game of Thrones” premiered in 2019.
A Digital Spy review stated:
“One of the most common criticisms facing these last episodes is that they feel like a mad dash to the finish. From the surprise early vanquishing of the Night King to Jaime and Brienne’s abbreviated love affair to Daenerys’s rapid descent into madness, the whole thing’s felt rather rushed.”
This widespread criticism prompted nearly 2 million fans to sign a petition titled “Remake Game of Thrones Season 8 with competent writers,” which went viral at the time.
While the “Game of Thrones” author admitted that he had little influence on how the series franchise was ended, he stated that he has more control over this year’s prequel season.
He explained:
“I had no contribution to the later seasons except, you know, inventing the world, the story and all the characters. I believe I have more influence now on ‘House of the Dragon’ than I did on the original show.”
The first episode of “House of the Dragon” debuted on August 21 and is now available on HBO Max.