We’ve known for a while now that Game of Thrones showrunners David Benioff and D.B. Weiss have a definitive end point in mind for their acclaimed adaptation of George R.R. Martin’s epic fantasy series A Song of Ice and Fire, with talk of the show running to eight seasons in total.
However, in some potentially disappointing news for fans ahead of this month’s season six premiere, Benioff and Weiss and told Variety that they are considering a shortened episode run for seasons seven and eight.
“I think we’re down to our final 13 episodes after this season,” said Benioff. “We’re heading into the final lap. That’s the guess, though nothing is yet set in stone, but that’s what we’re looking at.”
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The article claims that season seven would consist of seven episodes, followed by six episodes in the eighth and final season. However, HBO has released a statement suggesting that nothing has been set in stone:
“Any conversations about the end of Game of Thrones and the number of episodes of future seasons is purely speculative. As is customary, HBO will sit with Dan and David to discuss the details once a decision has been made to go forward with season seven.”
Given that Game of Thrones has consistently increased its ratings year over year, you’d have to imagine that HBO are keen to get as much mileage as possible out of the show, so it’s no surprise that the cable network has downplayed talk of a definite end date.
Would you like to see Game of Thrones extended beyond eight seasons, or should the showrunners continue to build towards their planned conclusion? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below…
SEE ALSO: The dead are coming in new trailer for Game of Thrones season 6
Game of Thrones season six premieres on April 24th.
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Originally published April 16, 2016. Updated December 15, 2019.
