Exploring the Wild Game of Thrones Theories That Failed to Pan Out
Game of Thrones is a show renowned for its elaborate storytelling and unexpected plot twists. However, it also inspired a myriad of fan theories, some of which were more entertaining than others. Here, we will explore some of the wildest Game of Thrones theories that did not come to fruition, delving into the why and the how of these interesting but ultimately incorrect speculations.
Misconceptions and Misreadings
Mance is Rheagar: One of the early theories was that Mance Rayder, the King beyond the Wall, was actually Aegon Targaryen, son of Rhaegar. While the theory stemmed from Mance's affectionate treatment towards Jon Snow, this idea was ultimately debunked. The character's relationship with Jon was more rooted in mentorship and fatherly figures such as Beric Dondarrion.
Secret Lannister Bastards
More Lannister Bastards: Another popular theory was that Cersei, Jaime, and Tyrion might be the children of Aerys II Targaryen. This speculation drew from various details about the Lannister family's history and Aerys's known demeanor. However, this theory was later countered by the show's consistent character portrayals and the absence of direct evidence or hints from the showrunners.
Time-Travel and Alternate Histories
Time-Travel through Bran: Another intriguing yet unsubstantiated theory suggested that Bran Stark would rewrite history by using his power of time-travel. Every episode of the final season was theorized to present a different conclusion to the show. This theory was demolished when Bran made no significant changes to the timeline and focused more on honoring his family's legacy.
Intriguing yet Unfulfilled Theories
Tyrion as a Targaryan: Some viewers believed that Tyrion Lannister was secretly a Targaryen, one of the three-headed dragon riders. This theory was based on Tyrion's resemblance to the stillborn child Rhaego and his cunning nature. However, this theory did not add any meaningful narrative depth and was ultimately irrelevant to the core plot.
Dark and Sinister Theories
Roose Bolton as a Vampire: Michael McElhatton, who played Roose Bolton, revealed that some fans theorized his character was a vampire due to his pale and pudgy appearance and the regular leechings in the books. This theory was quickly dispelled when Roose died in a relatively mundane manner, with no supernatural powers revealed.
The Lannister Honey Pot
The Lannister Honey Pot: A season 2 and 3 theory suggested that Talisa, a healer who fell in love with Robb Stark, was a secret Lannister agent. This idea was eventually crushed when the show revealed that Talisa was a complicit character brought down by the Lannister's masterful manipulation, not an insider.
Benjen Stark Debunked
Benjen is Daario: Fans speculated that Benjen Stark, who had supposedly died during theoni’s journey to Meereen and returned as Daario Naharis. The theory was based on Benjen's knowledge of Jon Snow's parentage and the importance of the surviving Targaryens in the impending battle against the White Walkers. However, Benjen's return as Daario proved to be a red herring, as he had just been raised by the mysterious red woman hours before being killed in a battle.
The Case of Hodor
Hodor the Horse or the Great Other: The most bizarre theory about Hodor suggested that he was once a warg who had lost his mind and identified with a horse. Alternatively, it was posited that Hodor might have been possessed by the Great Other under the guise of a horse. The truth, of course, was that Hodor was a slave of the Bol Logan and had been left brain-damaged by a head injury.
The Oedipal Tyrion Theory
Oedipal Tyrion: One peculiar theory suggested that Tyrion's parents were Daenerys and Drogo, with Tyrion being born through a plot by the blood magician Mirri Maz Duur. This theory was based on Tyrion's resemblance to the stillborn Rhaego and the suggestion of magical interference. However, this theory was easily dismissed when the character's true parentage was confirmed.
Unlikely but Speculated Theories
Tommen's Cat is Azor Ahai: Alt Shift X, an Australian YouTuber, theorized that Tommen's cat, Ser Pounce, was the prophesied hero Azor Ahai destined to defeat the White Walkers. While the theory was highly fanciful, it did spark a brief online commotion before being debunked as mere fan speculation.
Conclusion
While these theories may have been fun to speculate about, they ultimately did not hold up to scrutiny or the show's plotlines. Game of Thrones, in all its complexity, ultimately provided enough narrative depth and character development to explain the real answers to these captivating questions. Regardless, these theories serve as a testament to the show's rich storytelling and the fervor of its fans.