Much digital ink has been spilled over the fledgling relationship brewing between Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow, not to mention all those ramifications that will surely begin to take hold in Game of Thrones season 8.
But shortly before their fiery love scene, director Jeremy Podeswa thrust Jon and Dany into the Dragon’s Pit, where they came face-to-face with Cersei Lannister and her well-to-do entourage. Short of a few snide comments, the Game of Thrones showrunners showed a fair amount of restraint when bringing the two queens together, perhaps in an effort to save the inevitable fireworks for Thrones‘ eighth and final season.
It’s due to begin filming this October ahead of a possible release mid-way through 2019 – summer is said to be the current target; however, that due date is still subject to change – and yes, you read the headlines correctly: there are only six instalments of Game of Thrones remaining.
That naturally dials up the tension going into Thrones‘ swan song, and when asked about the fiery rivalry between Cersei and Dany, actress Lena Headey outlined the jealousy and sense of envy her deceitful queen harbors toward the Mother of Dragons.
Not only is she younger and more beautiful, but she’s also named Tyrion her Hand, and we all know how much Cersei detests her calculating dwarf brother. Per EW, here’s what Headey had to share on the matter at hand:
I think she’s immediately envious because Daenerys is more beautiful and younger than she is and the prophecy says somebody younger and more beautiful will take her place so I’m sure that’s at the forefront of her mind. And Tyrion is her Hand, so she couldn’t be any worse.
As those of you who have seen “The Dragon and the Wolf” will know, Emilia Clarke’s fearless leader is under the belief that she’s forged an uneasy alliance with Cersei, and expects to file in alongside the Lannister army once she reaches the north to battle the living dead. But this being Cersei, Headey’s scheming adversary is always three steps ahead, and has ordered Euron Greyjoy to Essos in the hope of recruiting the Golden Company, a 20,000-strong band of mercenaries with vast ships and elephants.
The Game of Thrones may be nearing its end, but all signs point to HBO’s fantasy flagship saving the best for last.