1. 1
    Tyrion Lannister
    78%

    "A mind needs books as a sword needs a whetstone."

    Tyrion Lannister, the youngest son of Tywin Lannister, is known for his intelligence, wit, and survival instincts in the dangerous world of Game of Thrones. Born with dwarfism, he is scorned by his father and sister Cersei, yet finds some acceptance from his brother Jaime. Though a Lannister by name, he is often treated as an outsider and relies on his sharp mind rather than brute strength to navigate Westeros.

    As Hand of the King to Joffrey Baratheon, Tyrion proves himself a skilled strategist, organizing the defense of King’s Landing during the Battle of the Blackwater. Despite saving the city, he is denied recognition by his father. After being falsely accused of Joffrey’s murder, he kills Tywin and flees to Daenerys Targaryen, becoming her Hand of the Queen. Though initially loyal, he later questions her growing ruthlessness.

    Despite his reputation as a drinker and womanizer, Tyrion values justice and fairness, forming meaningful relationships with Shae, Sansa Stark, and Varys. His sharp tongue and clever mind make him both dangerous and indispensable, allowing him to outmaneuver his enemies.

    By the end, Tyrion plays a crucial role in shaping the new political order of Westeros. Though betrayed and tested, his intellect ensures his survival, proving that a mind is the strongest weapon of all.


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  3. 2
    Daenerys Targaryen
    76%

    "I will take what is mine, with fire and blood."

    Daenerys Targaryen, the last surviving child of King Aerys II (the Mad King), begins her journey as an exiled princess with nothing but her Targaryen name. Living in fear under the control of her abusive brother Viserys, she is sold into marriage with Khal Drogo, leader of the Dothraki. Initially timid, she grows into a strong and fearless leader, earning the loyalty of her new people and embracing her identity as the Mother of Dragons after hatching three dragon eggs.

    Determined to reclaim the Iron Throne, she embarks on a mission to free the oppressed and build an army. In Slaver’s Bay, she becomes a liberator, breaking the chains of thousands in Astapor, Yunkai, and Meereen. Her rule is defined by compassion for the downtrodden but also ruthless justice for those who oppose her. Her dragons—Drogon, Rhaegal, and Viserion—become symbols of her growing power.

    Arriving in Westeros, she forms alliances with Jon Snow and Tyrion Lannister, but her ambition begins to cloud her judgment. After losing Jorah, Missandei, and Rhaegal, she is consumed by grief and a desire for absolute rule. In a devastating turn, she destroys King’s Landing, sealing her fate as a feared conqueror rather than a beloved queen.

    Despite once inspiring loyalty and hope, her descent into vengeful destruction forces Jon Snow to stop her before she becomes a tyrant. Her story is one of triumph, tragedy, and the dangers of unchecked power—a queen who wanted to save the world but ultimately became the very thing she fought against.


  4. 3
    Margaery Tyrell
    73%

    "The people are what matter. The people are why we rule."

    Margaery Tyrell, the charismatic and politically astute daughter of House Tyrell, rises to power in Game of Thrones through wit, charm, and strategic marriages. Unlike many noblewomen in Westeros, she understands that power is built on perception and influence, using kindness as her greatest weapon.

    First betrothed to Renly Baratheon, she supports his claim to the Iron Throne, but after his assassination, she quickly shifts her ambitions to King’s Landing, aligning herself with House Lannister. Through her intelligence and beauty, she wins the favor of King Joffrey Baratheon, replacing Sansa Stark as his future queen. Though Joffrey’s cruelty is well-known, Margaery skillfully manipulates him, gaining control over his public image and winning the love of the people.

    Following Joffrey’s sudden death at the Purple Wedding, she adapts once again, marrying his younger brother, Tommen Baratheon, whom she easily charms and controls. This places her in direct conflict with Cersei Lannister, who sees Margaery as a threat to her power over her son. Their rivalry intensifies, leading to Margaery’s arrest by the Faith Militant, after Cersei orchestrates her downfall.

    Despite her captivity, Margaery plays the game to survive, pretending to embrace the Faith while secretly planning her next move. However, she underestimates Cersei’s ruthlessness. In a shocking turn, she realizes too late that Cersei has no intention of standing trial and watches in horror as wildfire consumes the Great Sept of Baelor, killing her, her family, and hundreds of others.

    Margaery Tyrell proves that intelligence and charm can take you far in the game of thrones, but even the cleverest players are not immune to fire and ambition.


  5. 4
    Jon Snow
    71%

    "The things I do, I do for the realm." 

    Jon Snow, raised as the bastard son of Eddard Stark, grows up in Winterfell, longing for a place where he truly belongs. Seeking honor and purpose, he joins the Night’s Watch, believing it to be a noble calling. However, he quickly learns that life beyond the Wall is far more brutal than he imagined, facing wildlings, White Walkers, and betrayal from within.

    Despite his outsider status, Jon earns the respect of his brothers through bravery and leadership, eventually rising to become Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch. His time among the Free Folk, particularly his relationship with Ygritte, teaches him that loyalty is not always defined by birth or oaths but by the choices one makes. His willingness to challenge tradition and see the bigger picture sets him apart, even as it draws enemies.

    Jon’s journey takes a shocking turn when he is betrayed and murdered by his own men, only to be resurrected by Melisandre. Free from his Night’s Watch vows, he reunites with his Stark siblings and plays a key role in reclaiming Winterfell from Ramsay Bolton, securing his place as King in the North.

    His leadership is tested further when he meets Daenerys Targaryen and pledges his loyalty to fight the Army of the Dead. His actions, always driven by duty rather than ambition, lead him to kill Daenerys after her destruction of King’s Landing, ending her reign before it becomes tyranny.

    Jon’s ultimate fate sees him exiled beyond the Wall, where he finally finds freedom among the Free Folk, away from the burdens of power. His story is one of honor, sacrifice, and the painful cost of doing what is right.

    "The things I do, I do for the realm." ❄️⚔️









  6. 5
    Jamie Lannister
    71%

    "I never cared much for being a knight."

    Jaime Lannister, the eldest son of Tywin Lannister, is a man defined by both honor and infamy. Known throughout Westeros as "The Kingslayer," he earned his reputation by killing King Aerys II Targaryen, an act that saved thousands but branded him as a man without honor. As a member of the Kingsguard, he is expected to be a noble protector, yet his love for his twin sister Cersei drives many of his most controversial choices.

    At the start of Game of Thrones, Jaime is arrogant, privileged, and seemingly indifferent to morality. His affair with Cersei and his willingness to push Bran Stark out of a window to protect their secret paints him as a villain. However, his journey is one of gradual transformation, shaped by hardship and unlikely friendships.

    Captured during the War of the Five Kings, Jaime loses his sword hand, the very thing that defined his identity. This loss humbles him, and through his bond with Brienne of Tarth, he begins to rediscover a sense of true honor. For the first time, he seeks to do what is right—not for his family, but for himself.

    Jaime’s most heroic moment comes when he chooses to fight for the living against the White Walkers, proving he is more than just a Lannister loyalist. Yet, despite his redemption arc, he ultimately cannot escape his love for Cersei. In his final act, he returns to her side, dying in her arms as King’s Landing crumbles around them.

    A man who spent his life torn between duty, love, and redemption, Jaime Lannister is proof that even the most flawed individuals can seek honor in the end.


  7. 6
    Olenna Tyrell
    71%

    "Tell Cersei. I want her to know it was me."

    Olenna Tyrell, the matriarch of House Tyrell, is one of the most sharp-tongued, cunning, and politically astute players in Game of Thrones. Unlike the warriors who fight with swords, she wields words as weapons, striking down enemies with wit, strategy, and ruthless pragmatism.

    As the true power behind House Tyrell, Olenna ensures that her family remains one of the most influential and wealthy in Westeros. She masterminds Margaery Tyrell’s marriages to Renly Baratheon, Joffrey Baratheon, and Tommen Baratheon, skillfully maneuvering her granddaughter toward the Iron Throne. Her charm, intelligence, and ability to manipulate court politics make her a formidable force, one even Cersei Lannister struggles to outmaneuver.

    Her most iconic act is orchestrating the assassination of King Joffrey at the Purple Wedding, a secret she keeps hidden for years. She ensures that her granddaughter is freed from the grasp of a sadistic monster, proving that while she plays the game, she plays it for those she loves.

    However, her long rivalry with Cersei Lannister eventually leads to her downfall. After the destruction of the Great Sept of Baelor, which wipes out the Tyrell line in King’s Landing, Olenna is left without allies. When Jaime Lannister’s forces take Highgarden, she faces her fate with grace and defiance. In her final moments, she delivers one last, legendary blow - confessing to Jaime that she was the one who poisoned Joffrey, ensuring her legacy as one of the most cunning minds in Westeros.

    Olenna Tyrell is proof that power isn’t always about strength - it’s about knowing exactly where and when to strike.


  8. 7
    Eddard Stark
    70%

    "The man who passes the sentence should swing the sword."

    Eddard “Ned” Stark, the Lord of Winterfell and Warden of the North, is a man who embodies honor, loyalty, and duty. Raised alongside Robert Baratheon as a ward of House Arryn, he grows up with a deep respect for justice and a steadfast belief in doing what is right, even when it comes at great personal cost.

    As a young man, he fights alongside Robert in the Rebellion against the Mad King, helping to overthrow the Targaryen dynasty. Upon returning to Winterfell, he rules the North with fairness and wisdom, raising his children - Robb, Sansa, Arya, Bran, and Rickon - alongside his supposed bastard, Jon Snow, whom he refuses to speak of despite the whispers of scandal.

    When King Robert names him Hand of the King, Ned reluctantly travels to King’s Landing, entering a world of deception and political intrigue where his straightforward nature makes him an outsider. His investigation into Joffrey’s true parentage leads him to uncover the Lannisters’ darkest secret, but his refusal to play the game of thrones proves to be his undoing.

    Betrayed by Littlefinger and arrested for treason, Ned is forced to falsely confess in hopes of saving his daughters. But in a shocking turn, Joffrey orders his execution, ending his life but cementing his legacy as a man of unwavering honor. His death ignites the War of the Five Kings and sets his children on paths of transformation.

    Though his rigid sense of morality ultimately leads to his downfall, Eddard Stark’s influence shapes the fate of Westeros, proving that true honor, though costly, leaves an indelible mark on history.


  9. 8
    Tywin Lannister
    69%

    "Any man who must say, 'I am the king' is no true king."

    Tywin Lannister, Lord of Casterly Rock and Head of House Lannister, is one of the most formidable figures in Game of Thrones. A master strategist and unyielding ruler, he is driven by an unrelenting ambition to secure his family’s legacy and ensure the Lannister name stands above all others.

    Ruthless in both politics and warfare, Tywin rises to prominence during the Reign of the Mad King, serving as Hand of the King and effectively ruling the realm. His most infamous act, the Sack of King’s Landing, secures Robert Baratheon’s victory while reinforcing his reputation for calculated cruelty. His guiding principle is simple: “A Lannister always pays his debts”, whether in gold or blood.

    His children - Jaime, Cersei, and Tyrion - are all shaped by his influence, yet none truly earn his approval. He sees Jaime as a wasted heir, Cersei as reckless, and Tyrion as a disgrace, despite Tyrion being his most intelligent and capable child. His resentment toward Tyrion, due to the death of his wife during childbirth, fuels years of mistreatment that ultimately leads to his downfall.

    Tywin’s power reaches its peak when he orchestrates the Red Wedding, wiping out House Stark’s leadership and solidifying Lannister dominance. However, his underestimation of Tyrion proves fatal - after falsely condemning his son for Joffrey’s murder, he meets his end on the wrong end of a crossbow, executed by Tyrion in the most humiliating of circumstances.

    A man of iron will, political brilliance, and merciless pragmatism, Tywin Lannister is the embodiment of power without sentiment - a ruler feared, respected, but never truly loved.


  10. 9
    Arya Stark
    68%

    "A girl is Arya Stark of Winterfell. And I’m going home." 

    Arya Stark, the youngest daughter of Eddard and Catelyn Stark, begins her journey as a spirited, rebellious girl who rejects the traditional role of a noble lady. Unlike her sister Sansa, she dreams of adventure, sword-fighting, and independence, making her an outsider within her own family.

    Her world is shattered when her father is executed in King’s Landing, forcing her into hiding and setting her on a path of survival, revenge, and self-discovery. She escapes the city, disguised as a boy, and begins a harrowing journey through war-torn Westeros, witnessing firsthand the brutality of the world. Guided by her growing list of names, she becomes fixated on vengeance, seeking to kill those responsible for her family's suffering.

    Trained by Syrio Forel and later Jaqen H’ghar, Arya hones her skills as an assassin, eventually joining the Faceless Men of Braavos. There, she learns the art of deception, stealth, and merciless killing, though she ultimately rejects their philosophy, choosing to reclaim her identity as Arya Stark rather than becoming no one.

    Returning to Westeros, she avenges her family by slaughtering House Frey and later plays a crucial role in the battle against the White Walkers. In a defining moment, she kills the Night King, saving all of humanity from the undead army.

    Despite her thirst for revenge, Arya never loses her sense of adventure, and after the fall of the Iron Throne, she sails west of Westeros to explore the unknown. Her journey is one of transformation - from a headstrong girl to a fearless warrior, a faceless killer, and a true survivor.


  11. 10
    Brienne of Tarth
    68%

    "I am no lady. I am a knight."

    Brienne of Tarth, daughter of Lord Selwyn of Tarth, defies the expectations placed upon noblewomen in Westeros. Unlike other ladies of her station, she rejects the world of courtly dresses and arranged marriages, choosing instead to train as a warrior. Mocked for her height, strength, and unconventional looks, she remains fiercely loyal, honorable, and unwavering in her pursuit of justice.

    Brienne’s journey begins in service to Renly Baratheon, whom she admires deeply. After his assassination, she swears allegiance to Catelyn Stark, vowing to protect Sansa and Arya Stark. This promise defines her path, leading her across Westeros in search of the Stark daughters, enduring hardship, betrayal, and countless battles along the way.

    Her most unexpected and defining relationship is with Jaime Lannister. Initially adversaries, they develop a deep mutual respect, with Jaime recognizing her true knightly qualities - honor, loyalty, and courage - while she sees the better man hidden beneath his arrogance. His act of gifting her Oathkeeper, a Valyrian steel sword, cements their bond.

    Brienne proves her mettle in combat time and time again, besting the Hound, fighting off Lannister soldiers, and standing against the dead at the Battle of Winterfell. In one of her greatest moments, she is finally knighted by Jaime, becoming Ser Brienne of Tarth, a recognition long denied to her despite embodying all the virtues of knighthood.

    After the war, she is appointed Lord Commander of the Kingsguard under King Bran Stark, ensuring the realm is protected by someone who truly upholds the ideals of chivalry. From a scorned outsider to one of the greatest knights of her time, Brienne proves that honor is not about birthright, but about choice.


  12. 11
    Sandor Clegane – The Hound
    68%

    "I’m not your knight." 

    Sandor Clegane, better known as The Hound, is a man shaped by violence, pain, and a deep-seated hatred for the world around him. As the younger brother of Gregor Clegane, he suffers unimaginable cruelty as a child when his brother burns his face in a fire, leaving him scarred both physically and emotionally. This trauma fuels his lifelong fear of fire and cements his brutal, cynical outlook on life.

    Serving as King Joffrey’s personal bodyguard, The Hound is feared across Westeros for his ruthlessness and unmatched skill in combat. However, beneath the armor and vicious reputation lies a man who despises the very world he is forced to exist in. He shows glimpses of morality, particularly in his unexpected protection of Sansa Stark, shielding her from Joffrey’s cruelty.

    His true turning point comes when he abandons King’s Landing during the Battle of the Blackwater, unwilling to die for a cause he does not believe in. Wandering the land, he forms an unlikely bond with Arya Stark, a relationship that is equal parts mentorship and begrudging companionship. Though he teaches her how to survive, their paths diverge when Arya leaves him for dead after his brutal fight with Brienne of Tarth.

    Surviving his injuries, The Hound attempts to live a peaceful life, but vengeance pulls him back into the fray. His story culminates in Cleganebowl, his long-awaited showdown with Gregor in the burning ruins of King’s Landing. In an act of poetic justice, he drags his monstrous brother into the flames, choosing death over a life of rage and suffering.

    A man of contradictions - cruel yet compassionate, brutal yet protective - Sandor Clegane is not a hero, but a man who struggled to be better, even when the world refused to let him be.


  13. 12
    Oberyn Martell
    68%

    "Today is not the day I die."

    Oberyn Martell, the Prince of Dorne, is a warrior, lover, and man of unmatched charisma, intelligence, and deadly skill. Known as "The Red Viper," he is as famous for his sharp tongue and passion as he is for his lethal combat abilities. Unlike many noble lords, Oberyn is driven not by power, but by justice and vengeance, making him one of the most compelling figures in Game of Thrones.

    Oberyn arrives in King’s Landing for Joffrey Baratheon’s wedding, but his true motive is far more personal - revenge for the murder of his sister, Elia Martell, and her children during Robert’s Rebellion. He holds Tywin Lannister responsible and Gregor Clegane (The Mountain) as the butcher who committed the act. His pursuit of justice is relentless, and when Tyrion Lannister is falsely accused of regicide, Oberyn seizes his chance to act, volunteering as Tyrion’s champion in a trial by combat against The Mountain.

    A master of the Dornish fighting style, Oberyn dominates the duel, wounding The Mountain multiple times and bringing him to the brink of death. However, his arrogance and need for confession prove to be his undoing. Instead of finishing Gregor swiftly, he taunts him, demanding a public admission of guilt. This hesitation gives The Mountain just enough time to seize Oberyn, crush his skull, and silence him forever.

    Oberyn’s legacy, however, does not die with him. His daughters, the Sand Snakes, continue his quest for vengeance, and his actions set into motion the downfall of House Lannister’s hold on Dorne. A man who lived fast, loved fiercely, and died seeking justice, Oberyn Martell remains one of Westeros’ most unforgettable warriors.


  14. 13
    Varys
    66%

    "Power resides where men believe it resides."

    Varys, known as The Spider, is one of the most enigmatic and influential figures in Game of Thrones. As Master of Whispers on the Small Council, he weaves a vast network of spies across Westeros and beyond, ensuring he knows secrets before kings do. Unlike most power players, his loyalty is not to a house or a crown but to the realm itself, a belief that sets him apart in a world driven by greed and personal ambition.

    Born as a lowly orphan in Essos, Varys survives by his wits, eventually becoming a master of information. Though often underestimated due to his soft-spoken demeanor and lack of noble lineage, his intelligence and ability to manipulate events behind the scenes make him one of the most dangerous men in Westeros.

    His rivalry with Littlefinger is one of the great political battles of the series - while Petyr Baelish seeks chaos as a ladder, Varys works tirelessly to maintain stability for the people. His belief that power is an illusion, shifting with perception, allows him to serve multiple kings while staying indispensable.

    Throughout the series, he subtly orchestrates events to bring Daenerys Targaryen to the throne, believing her to be the best ruler for the realm. However, when she begins to show signs of tyranny, he turns against her, a decision that costs him his life.

    Executed by dragonfire at Daenerys’ command, Varys meets his end as he lived - calm, pragmatic, and willing to sacrifice himself for the greater good. In a world ruled by swords and crowns, his legacy is one of whispers, influence, and a relentless pursuit of a just ruler.


  15. 14
    Davos Seaworth
    66%

    "If we don’t put aside our enmities and band together, we will die."

    Davos Seaworth, once a lowborn smuggler, rises to become one of the most honorable and loyal advisors in Westeros. Born in Flea Bottom, he spends his early years running contraband, eventually saving Stannis Baratheon’s forces by smuggling onions and supplies into Storm’s End during Robert’s Rebellion. In gratitude, Stannis knights him but cuts off the tips of his fingers as punishment for his past crimes - an act Davos accepts as just.

    Despite his rough beginnings, Davos becomes Stannis’ most trusted advisor, valued for his honesty and wisdom. Unlike the lords of Westeros, he speaks plainly and truthfully, earning respect even among those who look down on his origins. Though devoted to Stannis, he clashes with Melisandre, opposing her blind faith in R’hllor and her use of blood magic.

    His loyalty is tested when Stannis sacrifices his daughter, Shireen, to the flames, an act that shatters Davos’ faith in his king. After Stannis’ fall, he pledges himself to Jon Snow, recognizing his honor and leadership. As Jon’s hand and advisor, he helps rally forces against the White Walkers and later plays a crucial role in securing peace after Daenerys Targaryen’s downfall.

    Unlike the ambitious power players of Westeros, Davos has no thirst for the throne, only a desire for justice and stability. Surviving countless wars and betrayals, he ends his journey as Master of Ships under King Bran Stark, ensuring a future of peace and prosperity. From a smuggler to a lord, Davos proves that true nobility isn’t about birthright - it’s about integrity.


  16. 15
    Robb Stark
    62%

    “How can I call myself King if I can’t hold my own castle?”

    Robb Stark, the eldest son of Eddard and Catelyn Stark, is the King in the North, a warrior and leader who rises to power in the wake of his father’s execution. Though still a teenager when the War of the Five Kings begins, Robb proves to be a brilliant military strategist, leading his northern army to multiple victories against House Lannister. His tactical genius earns him the nickname "The Young Wolf," and his men rally behind him with fierce loyalty.

    Unlike many rulers, Robb is not driven by ambition or greed, but by justice and duty. He marches to war not for a crown, but to avenge his father and free the North from Lannister control. His leadership is marked by fairness, courage, and honor, making him an inspiring figure to his people. However, honor is both his greatest strength and his fatal flaw.

    His downfall begins when he breaks his marriage pact with House Frey, choosing to marry Talisa Maegyr for love instead of duty. This single decision alienates an essential ally, leaving his army vulnerable. Worse still, he executes Rickard Karstark, a powerful northern lord, for disloyalty, further weakening his support. Though justifiable, these choices highlight his inexperience as a ruler - Robb wins battles, but he struggles to navigate the political game.

    His story ends in betrayal and blood at the Red Wedding, where House Frey, in alliance with the Boltons and Lannisters, turns on him. Robb, his mother Catelyn, and his army are slaughtered in one of the most shocking moments in Westeros’ history. His death marks the end of the Stark rebellion and leaves the North in ruins.

    Robb Stark is the king who never lost a battle, yet lost the war, proving that in the game of thrones, valor alone is not enough to survive.


  17. 16
    Renly Baratheon
    60%

    "Do you still think good soldiers make good kings?"

    Renly Baratheon, the youngest brother of Robert and Stannis Baratheon, is a charismatic, ambitious, and politically savvy nobleman who seeks the Iron Throne despite having no real claim to it. Unlike his stern and battle-hardened brothers, Renly is a man of charm, diplomacy, and popularity, beloved by both nobles and commoners alike.

    Serving as Master of Laws on Robert’s Small Council, he recognizes that power is not just about birthright - it’s about support. After Robert’s death, instead of backing Stannis, the rightful heir, Renly declares himself King of Westeros, relying on his youthful confidence, alliances, and the wealth of House Tyrell to support his claim. His marriage to Margaery Tyrell secures him the backing of the richest house in Westeros, strengthening his cause, though his true romantic love lies with Ser Loras Tyrell, Margaery’s brother.

    Renly's greatest strength - his ability to win people over - also becomes his downfall. Though he amasses an army larger than Stannis’ and Robb Stark’s combined, he underestimates his brother’s ruthlessness and belief in prophecy. Before he ever gets the chance to march on King’s Landing, Renly is assassinated in his own tent by a shadow conjured by Melisandre, a shocking end for a man who never even fought a battle.

    Though his rule is brief, Renly represents a different vision for Westeros - one of progressive leadership, charm, and unity. However, in the brutal game of thrones, charm alone is not enough, and those who ignore the harsh realities of power rarely live long.


  18. 17
    Sansa Stark
    59%

    "I am Sansa Stark of Winterfell. This is my home. And you can’t frighten me."

    Sansa Stark begins her journey as an innocent and idealistic young noblewoman, dreaming of courtly romance and a fairy-tale life as queen. Raised in Winterfell, she idolizes tales of chivalry and nobility, believing King’s Landing to be a place of honor and glory. However, her world is shattered when her father, Eddard Stark, is executed before her eyes, turning her dreams into a nightmare.

    Trapped in the Lion’s Den, Sansa endures years of suffering at the hands of the Lannisters, including her abusive fiancé Joffrey Baratheon and later her forced marriage to Tyrion Lannister. Despite her powerlessness, she learns to survive by observing the court’s most dangerous players - Cersei Lannister, Littlefinger, and Tyrion - developing a sharp political mind beneath her quiet demeanor.

    Her true transformation begins when she is taken to the Vale by Petyr Baelish, who teaches her the art of manipulation. Though he seeks to control her, Sansa proves she is no longer a pawn, using his own tactics against him. After enduring another horrifying ordeal as Ramsay Bolton’s wife in Winterfell, she reclaims her agency by orchestrating his downfall, proving she is no longer the naïve girl who once dreamed of a golden crown.

    As the Lady of Winterfell, she becomes a leader in her own right, refusing to be ruled by men ever again. By the end of her journey, Sansa is crowned Queen in the North, restoring Stark rule and ensuring her people’s independence. No longer the helpless princess, she has become a shrewd and powerful queen, outlasting many of Westeros’ greatest players.


  19. 18
    Tormund Giantsbane
    58%

    "We fight for life, not for land, not for glory, not for riches, but for life."

    Tormund Giantsbane is one of the most formidable and charismatic wildlings beyond the Wall. A fierce warrior, loyal leader, and larger-than-life personality, he embodies the Free Folk’s spirit of freedom, strength, and resilience. Known for his boisterous humor, battle prowess, and wild tales, Tormund claims to have suckled at a giant’s teat as a baby, a story as outrageous as the man himself.

    As one of Mance Rayder’s most trusted commanders, Tormund fights for the wildlings’ right to live free from the rule of southern kings. He initially sees Jon Snow as an enemy but comes to respect and befriend him, especially after Jon proves his loyalty to the Free Folk. Over time, Tormund becomes one of Jon’s closest allies, standing with him against both the Night’s Watch and later the White Walkers.

    During the Battle of Castle Black, he leads the charge against the Night’s Watch but is eventually captured. Rather than breaking his spirit, this defeat strengthens his resolve, and he later aids Jon in uniting the wildlings and the Night’s Watch to fight against the true enemy - the White Walkers. His courage shines in the Battle of Hardhome, where he witnesses the terrifying power of the Night King firsthand.

    Tormund fights in the Battle of the Bastards, the Battle of Winterfell, and ultimately survives the war for the Dawn. Unlike many, he chooses not to remain in the south but instead returns beyond the Wall, where he belongs. His final moments see him leading the Free Folk into the vast, untamed North, where he can once again roam free.

    A warrior with a heart as big as his beard, Tormund is a man of loyalty, laughter, and legend - a wildling who lived life on his own terms.


  20. 19
    Cersei Lannister
    55%

    "When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground." 

    Cersei Lannister, the eldest daughter of Tywin Lannister, is a woman defined by power, ambition, and ruthless cunning. Raised in the wealth and privilege of House Lannister, she grows up believing she is destined for greatness. However, in a world ruled by men, she is constantly reminded that her gender is a limitation, fueling her resentment and desire for control.

    Married off to King Robert Baratheon, she endures a loveless marriage, hiding her affair with her twin brother Jaime, which results in their three children: Joffrey, Myrcella, and Tommen. As queen, she plays the game of thrones with manipulation and fear, ensuring that her family remains in power at any cost.

    Her greatest weapon is her ability to outmaneuver rivals, crushing enemies like Eddard Stark, the Faith Militant, and House Tyrell. Her most shocking moment comes when she destroys the Great Sept of Baelor, wiping out her enemies in one decisive, fiery act. Though it secures her the Iron Throne, it also costs her the last of her children's lives, leaving her more isolated and paranoid than ever.

    Despite her cruelty, Cersei’s love for her children is genuine, and much of her ruthlessness stems from a desire to protect them. However, as she loses them one by one, her thirst for vengeance consumes her, making her increasingly reckless.

    Her reign comes to a tragic end when Daenerys Targaryen lays waste to King’s Landing, and she dies in Jaime’s arms beneath the crumbling Red Keep. In the end, her greatest strength - her determination to rule - also becomes her downfall.


  21. 20
    Catelyn Stark
    55%

    "Show them how it feels to lose what they love." 

    Catelyn Stark, born Catelyn Tully of Riverrun, is the proud and protective matriarch of House Stark, a woman defined by duty, love, and loss. As wife to Eddard Stark and mother to Robb, Sansa, Arya, Bran, and Rickon, she embodies the values of loyalty and honor, standing as a pillar of strength for her family even in their darkest moments.

    Her devotion to her children is unwavering, and her fierce protectiveness often drives her actions. When Bran falls from the tower under mysterious circumstances, she embarks on a quest for answers, which ultimately leads to the capture of Tyrion Lannister - an act that helps ignite the War of the Five Kings.

    After Ned's execution, Catelyn channels her grief into supporting Robb Stark’s rebellion, standing by his side as he is declared King in the North. Despite her wisdom and political insight, she makes a fateful decision when she frees Jaime Lannister in hopes of exchanging him for her daughters. Though done out of love, this act weakens her position among Robb’s allies.

    Her worst fears come true at the Red Wedding, where she watches Robb and his men slaughtered in an act of brutal betrayal. In a final, devastating moment, she lets out a silent scream before her throat is slit, ending her life - but not her story.

    In the books, she is resurrected as Lady Stoneheart, a vengeful force hunting those who betrayed her family. Though this arc is absent from the show, her legacy remains as a mother who fought relentlessly for her family, even in the face of despair.


  22. 21
    Ygritte
    53%

    "You know nothing, Jon Snow."

    Ygritte, a fierce and independent wildling, is one of the most unforgettable characters beyond the Wall. Born into the Free Folk, she is raised to see the Night’s Watch as enemies and to believe in the wildlings' right to live free from the rule of southern kings. Tough, skilled with a bow, and unapologetically blunt, she represents the untamed spirit of the North.

    Her life changes when she encounters Jon Snow, a sworn brother of the Night’s Watch, during a raid. Rather than killing her, Jon hesitates, allowing her to escape and setting the stage for one of Game of Thrones’ most compelling love stories. Captured by the wildlings, Jon is forced to integrate with them, and Ygritte takes it upon herself to teach him their ways - including what it truly means to be free.

    The two fall in love, but their relationship is complicated by Jon’s divided loyalties. Though she sees through his lies about being loyal to the Free Folk, she cannot bring herself to betray him completely. When Jon eventually returns to the Night’s Watch, her heartbreak turns to rage, and she joins the wildling attack on Castle Black, where she proves her ferocity and skill in battle.

    In the end, her love for Jon remains stronger than her hatred. Just as she prepares to kill him, she hesitates - and in that moment, she is fatally shot by a young Night’s Watch recruit. Dying in Jon’s arms, her final words, "You know nothing, Jon Snow," become one of the most iconic lines in the series.

    Ygritte’s story is one of passion, freedom, and tragedy, proving that even in the harshest of worlds, love can bloom - if only for a moment.


  23. 22
    Bronn
    51%

    "If I had a gold dragon for every time someone tried to kill me..."

    Bronn is proof that in Westeros, cunning, skill, and survival instincts can take a man from the gutters to the heights of nobility. A sellsword with no noble birth, he fights not for honor, but for gold and opportunity, making him one of the most pragmatic and unpredictable figures in Game of Thrones.

    His rise begins when he volunteers to fight for Tyrion Lannister in a trial by combat, effortlessly defeating Ser Vardis Egen and securing a lucrative alliance with House Lannister. He quickly becomes Tyrion’s bodyguard and right-hand man, protecting him through the chaos of King’s Landing, including the Battle of the Blackwater, where his archery skills play a key role in defeating Stannis Baratheon’s fleet.

    As a man who values self-preservation, Bronn never lets loyalty stand in the way of a better deal. When offered a knighthood and a castle, he takes the reward rather than following Tyrion into exile. However, his friendship with Jaime Lannister keeps him tied to the family, and he later becomes Jaime’s sparring partner and protector. Despite his blunt, mercenary nature, Bronn proves time and again that he is one of the most capable fighters in Westeros, holding his own against warriors of much higher status.

    His greatest ambition is wealth and power, and by the series’ end, he achieves it - becoming Lord of Highgarden and Master of Coin under King Bran Stark. From a nameless sellsword to one of the most powerful lords in the realm, Bronn plays the game of thrones without honor, without loyalty - but with undeniable success.


  24. 23
    Jorah Mormont
    49%

    "You have always known what was right. Even when I have not."

    Jorah Mormont, once the heir to House Mormont of Bear Island, begins his journey as a disgraced exile, but ends it as one of the most loyal and selfless warriors in Westeros. Once a noble knight, he is banished from the North after selling poachers into slavery to fund his lavish lifestyle. Fleeing to Essos, he becomes a sellsword and a spy, initially working for Varys to report on Daenerys Targaryen.

    However, in serving Daenerys, Jorah finds purpose, loyalty, and love. Though his initial allegiance is tainted by self-interest, he quickly becomes her fiercest protector, saving her from countless dangers. Despite his deep unrequited love for her, he remains devoted, believing in her vision of a better world.

    His past betrayal is eventually exposed, and he is exiled by Daenerys, a punishment that wounds him more than any sword ever could. Seeking redemption, he battles in the fighting pits of Meereen to earn back her trust, proving that his loyalty is unwavering, even when undeserved.

    Jorah’s most desperate fight comes when he contracts greyscale, a death sentence he refuses to accept. With the help of Samwell Tarly, he is miraculously cured and returns to Daenerys’ side, ready to fight in the Great War against the White Walkers.

    His final act of devotion comes at the Battle of Winterfell, where he sacrifices himself defending Daenerys, dying in her arms as the dead fall around them. He is not a king, not a conqueror, but a knight in the truest sense—one who lives and dies for something greater than himself.


  25. 24
    Missandei
    48%

    "Dracarys."

    Missandei begins her journey as a slave in Naath, taken from her homeland as a child and trained as a translator for the slavers of Astapor. Though outwardly obedient, she possesses a sharp mind, quiet strength, and an unbreakable spirit. Her fate changes when Daenerys Targaryen conquers Astapor, freeing the Unsullied and taking Missandei into her service—not as a slave, but as a trusted advisor and friend.

    As Daenerys' most loyal confidante, Missandei serves as her translator, diplomat, and closest companion, standing by her side through every triumph and hardship. Unlike warriors and kings, her power comes not from weapons or nobility, but from wisdom, diplomacy, and the ability to navigate complex political landscapes. Despite her past suffering, she never loses her compassion and kindness, forming a deep bond with Grey Worm, the commander of the Unsullied, in a rare moment of love between two people who had once known only servitude.

    Her journey takes her from Meereen to Dragonstone to Westeros, always by Daenerys’ side, believing in her vision of a world without tyranny and oppression. However, her unwavering loyalty puts her in the crosshairs of Daenerys’ enemies. While negotiating with Cersei Lannister, she is captured by Euron Greyjoy and used as a tool to break Daenerys’ spirit.

    In one of the most tragic moments of the series, she is executed atop the walls of King’s Landing, her final words - “Dracarys” - serving as both a message and a plea for Daenerys to burn her enemies to the ground. Her death ignites Daenerys' fury, setting in motion the destruction of King’s Landing.

    Missandei’s story is one of liberation, love, and unwavering faith, proving that even those without swords can change the course of history.


  26. 25
    Robert Baratheon
    46%

    "I swear to you, sitting on this throne is a thousand times harder than winning one."

    Robert Baratheon, the first king of Westeros after the Targaryen dynasty, is a man of contradictions - once a legendary warrior, now a decadent and disinterested ruler. As a young man, he is charismatic, strong, and fearless, leading a rebellion against the Mad King, Aerys II Targaryen, to reclaim the throne. His victories in battle, including the slaying of Prince Rhaegar Targaryen at the Trident, cement his place as a hero.

    However, the Robert who takes the Iron Throne is not the same man who fought for it. Haunted by the loss of Lyanna Stark, the woman he believed he loved, Robert drowns his sorrows in drink, gluttony, and endless affairs, turning from a warrior into a bloated, reckless king. His marriage to Cersei Lannister is loveless, and his indifference allows House Lannister to gain influence over the kingdom.

    Despite his many faults, Robert is not a cruel ruler - just an apathetic one. He despises politics, preferring the company of his old war comrades like Ned Stark and Ser Barristan Selmy. His greatest failure is his lack of interest in governing, allowing men like Littlefinger, Varys, and Tywin Lannister to pull the strings behind the scenes.

    His recklessness leads to his downfall, mortally wounded in a hunting accident after being given too much wine, likely orchestrated by Cersei to ensure her son Joffrey’s succession. On his deathbed, he entrusts the realm to Ned Stark, unknowingly setting off the chain of events that will lead to civil war and the destruction of his dynasty.

    Robert Baratheon is a king who won the throne with fire and fury but had no desire to rule - a man who lived for war, not politics, and whose greatest enemy was himself.