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Game of Thrones: 5 outsiders that could end up on the Iron Throne

Credit: HBO
Credit: HBO

Season 7 of Game of Thrones is the show’s penultimate year and, even though this and its final one are shorter than usual, there’s bound to be the synonymous jaw-dropping twists and reveals with each episode.

But the big question remains: who will inevitably make it onto the Iron Throne? Who will assume all the power? And just how the hell will they achieve it?

At present, the obvious victors aligning the path is the current tyrannical Queen Cersei Lannister and viable challengers Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen.

But is it really going to play out that simply? If every prior season is anything to go by, then there’s more chance of Jaimie Lannister sprouting another hand.

Credit: HBO
Credit: HBO

Here are 5 outsiders who stand a chance of getting there. Note: there is mild (and speculative) season 7 spoilers to follow.

Read more: Everything we learned from the season 7 Game of Thrones promo

GENDRY

Remember him? No? He was the illegitimate son of the late King Robert Baratheon, whose unfortunate ‘hunting accident’ was the catalyst to all hell breaking loose. It led to Joffrey’s psychotic reign and Ned Stark’s execution.

The last we saw of the skilled blacksmith was when he sailed away in a boat, after Ser Davos freed him from his imprisonment under Stannis’ command. As you’ll recall, Joffrey tried to have him murdered when he came to power and later on it was Melisandre who recognised the King’s blood running through him, whereby she intended to use him as a sacrifice to win the war – a fate that unfortunately befell to Stannis’ own daughter, Shireen. If we’re going on legality, with his father Robert being King, Gendry is next in line due to Joffrey and Tommen being the result of Cersei and Jaimie’s incestual hookups.

Apparently, we’re going to be seeing Gendry’s long-awaited return in season 7; so with him technically being heir to the throne, who’s to say he won’t finally get his chance after spending his time since season 3 rowing all the way back to King’s Landing. The big mystery is where the hell’s he been all this time?

Credit: HBO
Credit: HBO

VARYS

The Master of Whispers seems like the biggest outsider in terms of ascending to power, but he’s hinted a few times about his ultimate desires. Known as the eunuch that knows everything about everyone, he’s one of those characters that cleverly does his business under the radar.

A few seemingly frivolous scenes that stood out implies his ruling intent. Specifically in the aftermath of Ned Stark’s death, when he and Littlefinger have a frank discussion in the empty throne room. He notes how both men are from humble upbringings and have risen to considerable status and power.

Read more: 9 famous actors who nearly appeared in Game of Thrones

Then when he finds himself in discussion with Oberyn Martell, again in the throne room, he hints at his eye for the Iron Throne. He tells the prince that being ‘cut’ means he’s devoid of sexual desire, leaving his mind focused on achieving his real goals… before glancing at the throne – which comes across as an amusing, throwaway comment that baffles Oberyn.

Imagine if he snuck in through the side door via his cunning art of trickery and by waiting for everyone else to kill each other?

Credit: HBO
Credit: HBO

PETYR “LITTLEFINGER” BAELISH

Speaking of sly foxes, it’s anyone’s guess where Petyr Baelish will end up. One thing’s for sure: his intent on the throne is clear and will literally stab anyone in the back (or push them out of a moon door) to get what he craves. Ultimate power drives him, especially after the unabashed risks he takes. I mean, conspiring to murder Joffrey and whisk Sansa away was a huge gamble, but now as Protector of the Vale and with its army at his disposal we’ve no idea what twists and turns await. All we do know is that Littlefinger’s come too far to give up on seizing power for himself.

Without doubt the most conniving and slippery of challengers.

Credit: HBO
Credit: HBO

STANNIS BARATHEON

Yes, I know what you’re thinking – Brienne of Tarth executed him… but did she? We’re lead to believe that, as per her sworn duty, she would avenge the death of Renly (who was murdered at the hands of a terrifying demon ghost that Melisandre gave birth to after seducing Stannis).

Yet, we never actually see the act nor do we ever hear or see Stannis’ cold body. There’s every chance he’s still alive, with Brienne having chosen not to go through with it. Where, when, and how will he return from having his army decimated and being abandoned by quite literally everyone?

Oh, and to throw fuel on this fire, George R.R. Martin himself has said he’s not dead, so…

Read more: 69 thoughts while watching Game of Thrones season 6 finale

Credit: HBO
Credit: HBO

SANSA STARK

It goes against everything we know and believe in. But what if Sansa made it to the top? Considering her father Ned was rightfully due to take over ruling duties (as Hand of the King and King Robert’s faithfully friend and ally), she’s the next Stark in line. It seems that Jon’s going to affiliate more with his Targaryen ancestry, leaving Sansa as the eldest of the Starks to assume her place as ruler.

Read more: Lena Headey tease her role in Game of Thrones season 7

And isn’t she technically still married to Tyrion? Her wedding to Ramsay Bolton was not done so legally, so could the pair make their presence known? Admittedly, Sansa appears to have no intention to rule, even though we’ve seen some rather shrewd and tactical moves when in the war room – even out-thinking a hot-headed Jon – and her thirst for revenge, respect, and power is ever-growing; especially since that wicked grin we caught after feeding Ramsay to his own rabid dogs.

Credit: HBO
Credit: HBO

Who do you think will end up on the throne? Will it be one of the big hitters like Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, Cersei Lannister, the Night King, or someone else? Share your thoughts below…

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