10 Game of Thrones Characters More Important on Screen Than in Books

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The HBO series, while it may draw inspiration from George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” novels, isn’t shy about altering the original content. On-screen stories are frequently compacted, and popular storylines not found in the books are sometimes introduced. As the later seasons progressed, they exhaustively adapted all available material from Martin, leading to significant departures from “A Song of Ice and Fire” out of necessity.

In the mesmerizing world of “Game of Thrones,” I’ve found myself observing that several characters have moved to the forefront of the narrative in the show, a position they never quite held in George R.R. Martin’s novels. The unique blend of storytelling and exceptional acting has a knack for shining the spotlight on certain characters more vividly on screen than they appear on the pages of “A Song of Ice and Fire.” These ten captivating figures from our beloved series have undeniably taken on greater significance in the television adaptation compared to their roles in the books.

Throughout the series Game of Thrones, the undead army looms as a constant, chilling presence. From the very beginning, these wights have instilled a sense of icy terror within the show. In this fictional world, the Night King stands at the helm of this army, possessing the power to resurrect entire towns of slain individuals into wights merely by lifting his hands.

Played by Vladimir Furdik, Richard Brake
Total Episode Appearances 10

As of now, George R.R. Martin hasn’t revealed that the Army of the Dead in his books has appointed a leader resembling the Westerosi legendary figure The Night’s King. However, the character Night King from Game of Thrones serves as an embodiment of the menace posed by the undead, making it easier for viewers to associate a distinct figure with the impending danger.

In Season 2 of Game of Thrones, Robb encounters field medic Talisa Maegyr and develops a strong affection for her in a brief period. They decide to wed, which violates Robb’s prior commitment to marry one of Walder Frey’s daughters. In the typical style of Game of Thrones, this choice ultimately leads to disaster, as an angry Walder Frey teams up with Tywin Lannister and Roose Bolton to execute Robb, Talisa, their family, and many others in the tragic event known as the Red Wedding.

Played by Oona Chaplin
Total Episode Appearances 11

In contrast, Robb Stark doesn’t marry Talisa Maegyr in the books; instead, he is bound to noblewoman Jeyne Westerling following an intimate encounter. Although Jeyne spends more time on-screen with Robb in the show, Talisa is more prominent, making it easier for viewers to connect with her. Unfortunately, Talisa’s untimely demise, which Jeyne survives in “A Storm of Swords,” carries a greater emotional impact due to Talisa’s expanded role in the series.

In the disguise of Harrenhal, Arya forges an unexpected bond with a man called Jaqen H’ghar, after she spares his life. This enigmatic figure from Braavos, known as a Faceless Man, offers to extinguish the lives of three individuals named by Arya. After Arya reveals her name to him, he consents to aid her and her companions in fleeing Harrenhal, provided that he may live on.

Played by Tom Wlaschiha
Total Episode Appearances 18

In the books, there is no further mention of the character known as Jaqen H’ghar. However, the series introduces him again in Season 5, when Arya arrives at the House of Black and White in Braavos. Here, Jaqen assumes the identity of the Kindly Man, serving as a mentor to Arya in the practices of the Faceless Men, thereby creating a sense of continuity for viewers.

As a devoted fan, let me share my thoughts about the unforgettable character, Lyanna Mormont. Entering the series towards its latter stages, she swiftly stole our hearts despite her minimal screen presence. In her youthful portrayal, played by a young actress, she demonstrated an uncanny maturity, silencing characters older than herself with nothing more than a few well-chosen words and penetrating glances. Tragically, Lyanna met her end in the Battle of Winterfell during Season 8, but not without first bringing down a wight giant with her valiant efforts.

Played by Bella Ramsey
Total Episode Appearances 9

In the books, Lyanna Mormont, one of five sisters from House Mormont, doesn’t have a significant on-screen presence; instead, she communicates with Stannis Baratheon through letters. As she doesn’t make a strong impact in the novels themselves, it’s not surprising that she might not be as popular among fans compared to other characters.

Despite an extended absence from the storyline, Gendry is introduced as a valuable ally. Born as a bastard to Robert Baratheon, Gendry develops a bond with Arya after their shared escape from Harrenhal and their time together with the Brotherhood Without Banners. However, they part ways when his fellow companions sell him to Melisandre, who needs his royal blood. Davos manages to free him from Melisandre’s grasp, but Gendry remains out of sight until Season 7, where he becomes a member of the group seeking out wights beyond the Wall.

Played by Joe Dempsie
Total Episode Appearances 24

In George R.R. Martin’s series “A Song of Ice and Fire,” the television adaptation combines two separate characters: Gendry and Edric Storm. Unlike in the books, where Gendry has not interacted with Melisandre, she captures Edric Storm, another son of Robert Baratheon, instead. In the show, Gendry is currently a blacksmith among the Brotherhood Without Banners, making it highly improbable for him to be taken by Melisandre anytime soon.

Known actress Dame Diana Rigg earned four Emmy nominations for portraying Olenna Tyrell, and it’s clear why. As the matriarch of the Tyrell clan, she demonstrates her skill as one of the most formidable players in the game of thrones. In a striking moment, she candidly admits to Jaime that she was behind Joffrey’s death, mere moments before she passes away herself.

Played by Diana Rigg
Total Episode Appearances 18

In A Song of Ice and Fire, Olenna Tyrell has had fewer scenes compared to her portrayal in the show after her granddaughter Margaery’s wedding to King Tommen. Since there is no significant Tyrell character providing a perspective from their point of view, Olenna’s appearances have been limited. Yet, despite having less page time, the books continue to keep Olenna’s wit and sharpness as vivid as ever.

Following Daenerys’ liberation of the Unsullied from bondage in Astapor, Grey Worm gradually blossoms as an individual, revealing increasing layers of his character throughout the series. He becomes a part of Daenerys’ inner circle, develops a playful rapport with Tyrion and Daario, and most memorably, embarks on a tender love story with Missandei.

Played by Jacob Anderson
Total Episode Appearances 34

In the books, Grey Worm’s character primarily focuses on his role as the Unsullied’s leader, with minimal involvement in other significant roles. He spends less time interacting with Daenerys’ advisors, and his dialogue is sparse both on paper and screen. Since Missandei is just a teenager, there is no romantic relationship between her and Grey Worm in the books. Now, let’s discuss Missandei…

Missandei initially crosses paths with Daenerys when they both are in Astapor during the liberation led by Daenerys. Daenerys then recruits Missandei for her translation skills, and their friendship blossoms shortly after. It’s worth noting that, as the series unfolds, Missandei develops romantic feelings for Grey Worm too.

Played by Nathalie Emmanuel
Total Episode Appearances 38

In the books, Missandei is portrayed as significantly younger, which means her relationships with Daenerys and Grey Worm, particularly romantic ones, aren’t feasible. Instead, she remains less prominent in the storyline. It’s worth noting that ‘Game of Thrones’ showrunner David Benioff expanded Missandei’s role after being captivated by Nathalie Emmanuel’s acting skills.

In the world of “Game of Thrones,” Tormund Giantsbane becomes a significant figure among the wildlings. Initially appearing in Season 3, when Jon Snow infiltrates their group, Tormund later assumes a more prominent role following the demise of Mance Rayder. Throughout the remaining seasons, he proves to be both an imposing warrior and a source of humor, thereby enriching the series.

Played by Kristofer Hivju
Total Episode Appearances 33

In the books, Tormund’s character development hasn’t been as extensive as it has been in the TV series due to his significant scenes often taking place off-screen or yet to unfold, such as the Battle of Hardhome, the Battle of the Bastards, the wight hunt, and the Battle of Castle Black. So, Tormund is not as well-rounded in the books compared to how he appears on screen.

From the debut of Jorah Mormont in the initial episode of the series up until his demise during the Battle of Winterfell, he has been one of Daenerys’s most trusted advisors and friends. Jorah frequently functions as a sounding board for Daenerys, allowing her to express her thoughts, thus providing insight into her mind. Throughout the series, Jorah has also interacted with Tyrion, been afflicted by Greyscale, and played a crucial part in the hunt for wights.

Played by Iain Glen
Total Episode Appearances 53

As a passionate fan of “Game of Thrones,” I must admit that Jorah Mormont, a character often alongside Daenerys Targaryen, surprisingly gets more screen time than one might anticipate, appearing in 53 out of the series’ 73 episodes – the eighth most of any character.

In George R.R. Martin’s books, Jorah is somewhat overshadowed by Barristan Selmy, another of Daenerys’ knights, and a character arc involving Jon Connington and Greyscale is yet to unfold, while the reunion between Jorah and Daenerys, along with the wight hunt, has not taken place. Yet, it’s truly commendable how Iain Glen, the actor portraying Jorah, has brought such depth and substance to a character that was initially thought to have a lesser role.

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2025-06-07 00:39