A Scene of Ice and Fire

It's been a minute, hasn't it? Andrew and Manu are back on the podcast airwaves for the first since, well, a pandemic began to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the premiere of "Game of Thrones" on HBO. Personal lives have prevented the podcast from returning in full (though we still hope to eventually!), but we had a lot of fun taking 75 minutes to look back on how we first got into "Thrones," and many more topics -- favorite moments, episodes, and castings & characters. We also took some time to discuss how we've reckoned with the most frustrating aspects of the end of the series, and how we hope that audiences don't dismiss so many good memories from the show just because of its conclusion. Not everything's about "sticking the landing." At the end, we look toward the future and all the prequel possibilities in the works, most notably "House of the Dragon," which will come to a Home Box Office near you in 2022. Wherever there be dragons (or even just Westerosi lore), we will follow. Manu has a new Metal Gear Solid podcast, Podcast Sans Frontieres! Manu on the Not a Podcast's "Clash of Kings" finale, Bran VII Manu's Twitter thread of top 30 "Thrones" moments Andrew's baseball writing, and Disney blog that's running through the Disney Animated Classics in order Just because: Jaime fookin' Lannister (since we both love the bath confession scene so much) iTunes link

It's a King's Landing party for the latest podcast, as Andrew and Manu continue the season 2 premiere. Tyrion and Shae discuss the dangers of King's Landing, Cersei asserts her power over Littlefinger in trying to locate Arya, and Joffrey subsequently turns the tables on Cersei by threatening her after she smacks him for a rude comment about Robert's affairs. The worst part comes at the end of the episode, when Joffrey has all of Robert's bastards brutally executed (unlike in the books, where Cersei does it; more on that in the podcast), save for one smith's apprentice, who happens to be traveling with Arya on the way to The Wall. Wuddya know! Don't worry, Stannis Crew, we have a special episode coming very soon on everything surrounding his introduction to the series. iTunes link Google Play link

"The North Remembers" continues with the two eldest remaining Stark men (not counting the AWOL Benjen). Jon and the Night's Watch have arrived at Craster's Keep, and it turns out that dude is a real incestuous shithead! You hate to see it. He gets a tough lesson from Jeor Mormont about why they're working with such a detestable dude, but it leaves us plenty of room to critique. Further south, Robb and his Northern army are deciding their next best course of action. He sends the Lannister cousin Alton back to King's Landing to give Joffrey & Cersei his terms, which are understandably steep. Then, much to Catelyn's chagrin, he listens to Theon's suggestion of sending him to try to align with his father, Balon Greyjoy. This will not end well. There are some great nuggets in here about Robb and Jon (to a lesser extent) asserting themselves in leadership roles. Tune in. iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu roll along in their second podcast on "The North Remembers," where the red comet that tracks everyone throughout the episode first seen over Bran, who is presiding as acting lord of Winterfell with Luwin and Osha close by. We see how he's growing and dealing with the new responsibilities, as well as his first exposure to wolf dreams. A world away, Daenerys and the Dothraki also hover under the red comet, but it's just about the furthest thing from their minds. Survival in the Red Waste is proving to be an arduous task, but an intriguing podcast topic (#congrats to us, I guess). Starvation is a brutal enemy. Dany sends her bloodriders off in different directions to find some hope. Emilia Clarke's New Yorker piece on battling brain aneurysms throughout season 2 filming; she is tougher than all of us combined iTunes link Google Play link

At long last, it's come time for Andrew and Manu to hit the books on Game of Thrones season 2. Expectations were high on the show following a breathtaking initial run that ended in shock with the death of Ned Stark. The sophomore season shows the aftermath of this turn of events, as kings rise and fall throughout the Seven Kingdoms while trying to truly take control of Westeros. The second book of the series is called "A Clash of Kings" for a reason. We begin in King's Landing, where Joffrey is sadistically enjoying his name day with some casual violence and we see how the captive Sansa to trying to maintain her dignity in this tough situation. Joffrey's smiles turn to unease when Tyrion marches in with Bronn and the Hill Tribes, and he quickly takes the leading seat of the Small Council as Acting Hand of the King, much to Cersei's chagrin. Thus begins Peter Dinklage's absolute tour de force of this season of Game of Thrones. To paraphrase Michael Jordan, "we're back." iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu reach the end of road of one part of their journey. "Game of Thrones" aired its finale, "The Iron Throne" on Sunday, and offered a glimpse at the new future of Westeros. This is definitely a time to reflect on how fascinating characters like Arya, Daenerys, Sansa, Tyrion, Jon, Brienne, and more wrapped up their arcs. We touched on pretty much every major plot point of the finale before offering some last thoughts. Of course, you're not done with us just yet. (At least we hope you're not!) Soon, we'll jump back in time and begin our normal scene-by-scene coverage of season 2. We can't wait and we can't thank you enough for joining us in our journeys through the final season. Sean Collins and Joanna Robinson on the comparisons between the Iron Throne and the One Ring Kim Renfro on Sansa's remarkably detailed Queen in the North coronation dress Register with the discount code "Manu" for Con of Thrones (Nashville, July 12-14) iTunes link Google Play link

Thrones is almost at an end, and the most recent installment, "The Bells," felt more like a cinematic blockbuster to Andrew and Manu than an episode of television. There are definite positives to that in terms of directing, set design, cinematography, and more! Unfortunately, we also get some questionable storytelling choices, resulting in huge moments like Dany's heel turn on the innocents of King's Landing feeling rushed. But between that, the Jaime/Cersei storyline, Cleganebowl, Arya's wanderings, and the last stand of Varys, there's so much to talk about! Next week's finale will be something to behold. Lindsey Romain's Nerdist post on the white horse symbolism Bookshelfstud's referenced episode recap Nathalie Emmanuel's EW interview about Missandei's death and GoT's larger diversity issues This GIF of the Cleganebowl step staredown with Drogon in the background is just an incredible shot Andrew's post about "Last of the Starks," the previous season 8 episode which we did not have time to podcast about Register with the discount code "Manu" for Con of Thrones (Nashville, July 12-14) iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu talk about "The Long Night," where the Battle of Winterfell spans the entire episode. It's visually stunning with unbelievably cool effects! But unless you have top-quality streaming, it's hard to see. It has bold plot decisions with incredible character beats from the likes of Arya, Melisandre, and Theon! But some of its decisions are very strange. The fandom seems split on this episode, and we fall somewhere in the middle, though we like talking about its positives more. Join us! Thoughts gather, and our watch begins. Please note: The initial recording of the section where we briefly recapped the episode was disjointed at parts, so Andrew went back and recorded it solo. The sound quality will briefly be different, and then soon go back to normal. Joanna Robinson on some of what into the lighting issues of this episode Manu's "Girls Gone Canon" appearance for Patreon discussing the pilot, "Winter is Coming" Manu's Avengers: Endgame review at Screenfellows Register with the discount code "Manu" for Con of Thrones (Nashville, July 12-14) iTunes link Google Play link

So, "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms," huh? The show knocked it out of the park with a tremendous battle prep episode. Andrew and Manu talk about their favorite parts, particularly Jaime's trial, the warm hearth scenes with Jaime knighting Brienne and Podrick's moving rendition of "Jenny's Song," the vast war council, Theon's return to Sansa's side at Winterfell, and much more. And yes, we do sigh heavily a lot because boy oh boy are so many of our most beloved characters gonna fall next week. Manu's instant reaction live stream to the episode on Sunday with Joe Magician "Girls Gone Canon," where Manu will soon be making a guest appearance on a Patreon-only episode Joanna Robinson on why the Arya-Gendry hookup makes sense (also see her corresponding "Still Watching" podcast) "Lord of the Rings" references abound! Theoden's "Where is the Horse and the Rider?" speech before the Battle of Helm's Deep, and Pippin's bittersweet "Edge of Night" song as Faramir led a doomed attempt to retake Osgiliath  Register with the discount code "Manu" for Con of Thrones (Nashville, July 12-14) iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu (and everyone else) have finally been able to watch the first episode of the final season of "Game of Thrones." That is truly something in it of itself. So, it's back to our full episode reviews, like we did in season 7. This was a great place-setting episode that did a little extra to make it an even better season opener than normal. Everything at Winterfell alone would be enough to make it memorable, and talking about it is over half the podcast. But we do also touch on everything at King's Landing, on the Greyjoy ships, and the horror-filled craziness of Last Hearth. RIP Ned Umber. You were a good lad. Joanna Robinson on, well, everything! Joe Magician on the Night King & white walkers' use of symbols Lauren Sarner on the weapon Arya asked Gendry to make Register with the discount code "Manu" for Con of Thrones (Nashville, July 12-14) iTunes link Google Play link

It's time to at last wrap a bow on the remarkable first season of "Game of Thrones." Andrew and Manu dish out their own awards, including Best Scene, Worst Scene, Best Show Invention, Best Main Performance, Best Supporting Performance, and Best Quote. Season 8 coverage is next. We can't wait. Register with the discount code "Manu" for Con of Thrones (Nashville, July 12-14) iTunes link Google Play link

So, yeah. The Game of Thrones season 8 trailer is out and it might be the last one we ever see for this show. The hype for the trailer is definitely deserved if you ask Andrew and Manu. Which you might. Because you are considering listening to this podcast and you are a sweet soul. Thank you. Season 8 trailer The excellent Kim Renfro breaks down the trailer's nitty gritty details for Business Insider Catch up with our season 7 full episode reviews Gendry is not alone! Andrew has a cat now, too. Say hi to Koozie! iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu finally complete their long journey through the first season of "Game of Thrones." Scenes discussed include Yoren explaining the plan for "orphan Arry" to Arya, her first encounters with Hot Pie, Lommy, and Gendry, and the Old Bear revealing to Jon that he knows about his attempted escape. With a stirring speech, he urges Jon to stay loyal to the Night's Watch and join the great ranging beyond The Wall. Oh yeah, also dragons are born through sacrifice in a ridiculously good set of scenes with Dany, Jorah, and the Dothraki. NBD. It was okey dokey. Thank you all for joining us through this trek through season one, and we can't wait to get started on the next one. BryndenBFish tells how diehard ASOIAF fans can come to love Dany's similarly climactic scene with the Dothraki in season 6 George R.R. Martin explains back in a 1999 chat how Targaryen fire resistance is likely a miraculous one-time anomaly in the books Register with the discount code "Manu" for Con of Thrones (Nashville, July 12-14) iTunes link Google Play link

Today's podcast is the calm before the storm of the very end of Game of Thrones season 1. Andrew and Manu watch as Daenerys tearfully puts Drogo out of his misery, then observe Pycelle aimlessly ramble about kings to Ros before revealing (after her departure) that he's actually quite fit and far more on the ball than he appears. This is also one of the few scenes we get with characters talking about the Mad King's reign before he was truly mad. We wrap up with another verbal showdown between Littlefinger and Varys, where they each briefly delve into each other's personal histories and impressive ascents to the Small Council. It's essentially a sequel to a similar scene earlier in the season, during "The Wolf and the Lion." Deleted scene from season 3 where Tywin figures out the truth about Pycelle's grift Register with the discount code "Manu" for Con of Thrones (Nashville, July 12-14) iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu catch up with Dany in Essos, where everything has gone to hell. She wakes up after collapsing outside Mirri Maz Duur's blood magic tent, where she learns to her horror that she traded her unborn son Rhaego's life for a comatose Drogo. (The identically named recent Targaryen history, "Fire and Blood" provides some intriguing parallels between what became of Rhaego and Maegor the Cruel's "children.") Dany demands to know why Mirri did this, but Mirri is unapologetic. Other scenes include Tyrion deciding to bring Shae to King's Landing against Tywin's wishes, and Jon Snow's midnight ride from the Watch. In the latter, Sam unsuccessfully tries on his own to stop Jon from leaving, but he gets more help from Grenn & Pyp in a later scene in the woods of The Gift that we also discuss. By reminding Jon that they are his brothers now, he is convinced to stay. Stay tuned for some brief direwolf musings as well. More details on Maegor's similarly twisted offspring (see both "Tyranny" and "The Black Brides") Neville Longbottom's Sam Tarly scene from "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" Register with the discount code "Manu" for Con of Thrones (Nashville, July 12-14) iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu roll along with "Fire and Blood," as we get some slightly more pleasant scenes than last week. Spitting on the idea of kneeling to Renly, Stannis, or Joffrey Baratheon, the Northmen decide to crown Robb Stark the King in the North. Afterward, Catelyn has a tense discussion with the imprisoned Jaime Lannister in which he reveals that he pushed Bran from the window at Winterfell. Meanwhile, the news of Jaime's capture has reached both Cersei (who we quickly see in a post-coital scene with her idiot cousin Lancel) and an enraged Tywin. After a brief war council discussion, he sends a stunned Tyrion to King's Landing to serve as acting Hand of the King. There's some fun discussion of Northern history and Tyrion's complicated relationship with his father. And, of course, RENLY IS NOT RIGHT. Register with the discount code "Manu" for Con of Thrones (Nashville, July 12-14) iTunes link Google Play link

After several months of hiatus, Andrew and Manu are back and finally ready to wrap up season 1 of "Game of Thrones" by kicking off their discussion of the thrilling finale, "Fire and Blood." Despite the episode title, there are no Targaryens to discuss just yet. We pick up immediately where "Baelor" left off with Ned Stark's execution and Yoren's scramble to get the dazed Arya out of King's Landing. This segues to the theme of this week's podcast, which is essentially how each Stark family member (aside from Jon) reacts to Ned's death. We see Bran & Rickon learning the truth in visions before hearing the official word from Maester Luwin, Catelyn & Robb sharing in pure devastation in the Riverlands, and Sansa's quiet suffering at court in King's Landing before the shit Joffrey forces her to stare at Ned's head on a spike. (Immediately after needlessly having Marillion's tongue ripped out. Great guy.) It's at least a strong moment of personal strength from Sansa. It's good to be back and diving into all this, so enjoy! Listen to Manu's recent appearance discussing "The Queen's Justice" (season 7, episode 3) on The Night's Cast ... ... then go back and listen to our podcast on that episode from when it aired in August 2017! iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu hit a true watershed moment in the history of television with the finale of "Baelor," where Ned Stark is stunningly executed right after his son, Robb, wins the Battle of the Whispering Wood and takes Jaime Lannister captive. Yowza. Along the way, Manu brings up a theory that he's discussed on Twitter before with Malora Hightower: the decision to behead Ned was not just Joffrey's violent instinct but also an idea planted by Littlefinger himself. There's more evidence to this than you might think, so take a listen. This all-timer features some excellent character work by Sean Bean, Michelle Fairley, Maisie Williams, and many others, so let's get right into it. Not discussed on the podcast, but worth noting: Jaime talks to Olenna Tyrell about learning from Robb's trick and using it later on at Highgarden in season 7 Alan Sepinwall's review of "Baelor" at the time of its release captures the shock of Ned's death to pretty much everyone except book readers Okay yeah, we need at least one Ned death reaction video iTunes link Google Play link

It's the penultimate podcast on the penultimate episode of season 1. Andrew and Manu watch as Tyrion learns that he and his Hill Tribes pals will be on the front lines for the upcoming Battle of the Green Fork, which forebodes a dismal fate. Chagrined, Tyrion consoles himself by playing drinking games with Bronn and Shae, the sex worker the sellsword brought to him. Tyrion grows fond of Shae's sass, but she does force him to tell the awful story of his marriage to Tysha and how Tywin reacted to his son marrying a commoner. Manu helps delve deeper into Tyrion's background, and how it both defines his character & the slight divergence between the books and the show going forward. The episode doesn't actually show the Battle of the Green Fork, but the aftermath tells us what we need to know -- the mighty Tywin has been fooled by the young wolf. Bilbo's 111th birthday roll call vs. Tyrion's Hill Tribes roll call iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu stick to Essos for a few scenes, as Daenerys scrambles to 1) Keep the ailing Drogo alive and 2) Retain some semblance of control over the quickly dissenting Dothraki. Drogo has fallen from his horse and no longer commands the respect that he once did among the likes of his bloodrider Qotho, so their loyalty to the Khaleesi will not last for long. The tension boils over when Dany turns to the witch Mirri Maz Duur in a desperate hope to save Drogo's life. She goes against Dothraki custom (and Jorah's advice to run) by asking Mirri to use blood magic to save him, and they revolt. Along the way, the show uses some super-creepy aesthetics to make the setting even more unsettling. (RIP Drogo's horse, gone far too gruesomely.) So let's talk about it! iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu travel to the Wall in "Baelor" through the eyes of Jon Snow. Since he saved Lord Commander Mormont, the Old Bear gifts him the Valyrian sword Longclaw, a Mormont family heirloom. They talk about the sword and Alliser Thorne, and afterward, Jon learns from Sam that Robb Stark is marching south. Conflicted, Jon is summoned by Maester Aemon, who has a heart-to-heart with him in which he explains his Targaryen roots and the similar hardships he faced watching from the Wall as his house fell to ruin during Robert's Rebellion. Every word from the late Peter Vaughan is chilling and moving, so we try to give this moment its due. It's incredible and chalk full of connections to the story writ large. Let's get to it. Jon talks with Jorah about Jeor Mormont and tries to give him Longclaw back in season 7 (which we also touched upon in our podcast recap of that episode) Helpful video with graphics explaining the Targaryen family tree (Note: The show simplifies it by skipping a generation and making the Mad King the son of Maester Aemon's younger brother Aegon the Unlikely, rather than the grandson) Once more: Manu's appearance on the "Not a Cast" podcast discussing Bran IV Just watch the scene with Maester Aemon and Jon again. It's too perfect. iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu have finally made it "Baelor," one of the most transcendent episodes of TV from this decade (and maybe ever). Appropriately, they start off with Varys' second visit to Ned Stark in the black cells of King's Landing, as the Master of Whisperers tries to convince him to support Joffrey to save Sansa. Then, it's off to the Riverlands, where through his mother Catelyn, Robb enters into negotiations with the nefarious Walder Frey. We're introduced to the creepy environment of the Twins, and Manu provides some of House Frey's history and Walder's background with Cat's father, Hoster Tully. Robb is presented with ominous terms, as he must agree to marry one of Walder's daughter to cross. He does so, but yeah, that doesn't work out well for him once he goes back on his promise. Manu's appearance on the "Not a Cast" podcast discussing Bran IV One Perfect Shot: Fire lighting Ned's eyes Andrew's Always Sunny-themed Catelyn/Walder Frey tweet Jaime Lannister's rebuttal to Catelyn about all the conflicting vows you have to take iTunes link Google Play link

A mere month after the Game of Thrones spin-off about The Long Night was announced (and discussed), another one is in the news! It's not official yet, but check out this Watchers on the Wall story about another Thrones series: "Empire of Ash," directed by Max Borenstein about the Doom of Valyria. Andrew and Manu chat about the rumored details behind the prequel and also briefly touch on the update about the Long Night spin-off possibly going into production in October. Then, it's back to "The Pointy End," which came to its own pointy end in a series of scenes: Tyrion & the Hill Tribes meeting Tywin in the Lannister camp, Robb showing his mettle when a scout interrupts his War Council, and King's Landing, where Barristan Selmy is unceremoniously dismissed from the Kingsguard and Sansa begs for her father's life. Tywin & Tyrion's oh-so-complicated relationship is explored, as are the Hill Tribes, Barristan's great respect, the Lannisters quietly orchestrating Sansa's request, and the show's subtleties with wine, furtive glances, camerawork, and more. Away we go! Next up is "Baelor." Get hyped. In advance of Manu's appearance on the "Not a Cast" episode about AGOT Bran IV, our older episode on when Tyrion presents Bran with his saddle design in the show Jorah & Tyrion traveling through Valyria Ozzy Man reads the alluded epic tale of Barristan's escape from King's Landing iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu kick off July with a podcast on "The Pointy End" that mainly centers around Robb Stark. His events begin and end the scenes today, as he first stands up for himself against Greatjon Umber with the Northern lords gathered at Winterfell, then talks with Bran briefly about his planned early departure, and closes out the show by meeting up with his mother, Catelyn, who has tracked his army down. Richard Madden's superb acting offers plenty to discuss, as do the emotions behind Robb's actions. Robb's not all there is to this episode, though. We also have eerie premonitions with Bran and a saddened Rickon, Sam Tarly musing on the wights burning at the Wall, and Osha talking to Bran in the Godswood about the old gods. Oh, and we also see Hodor's package. There's a big man! Onward. The "Not a Cast" crew on the ancient library at The Wall and the grim fate that likely awaits it (and others) iTunes link Google Play link

"The Pointy End" continues as we pick up with Tyrion & Bronn making their way through the Eyrie. Bronn agrees to serve as Tyrion's well-compensated shield and is put to the test when the hill tribes descend on them. Andrew and Manu briefly explore their history and how Tyrion displays his aptitude for the titular game of thrones in turning Shagga (son of Dolf) into his ally. Up at the Wall, news of Ned's imprisonment has circulated and Thorne goads Jon into trying to attack him, which earns Jon solitary confinement. Ghost helps Jon make up for it by alerting him to danger: a wight attacking Jeor Mormont in his chambers. Jon saves the day! Dany realizes that the process of coming to Westeros isn't going to be as clean as she might've hoped when she witnesses the Dothraki slaughtering the Lhazareen. She does what she can to try to spare some, including the priestess Mirri Maz Duur, and Drogo affirms her decision by fighting his angry subordinate Mago to the death, though he suffers a fateful wound. Points to Jason Momoa for telling the writers that we should see Drogo fight! iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu journey around Westeros in "The Pointy End" as Jon, Sansa, Robb, and Catelyn gradually hear the fateful news about Ned Stark being thrown into the black cells of King's Landing for treason. For Jon, this also comes on the heels of bringing the bodies of his uncle Benjen's companions back from beyond the Wall. After being goaded by a letter from Sansa (that Cersei and others force her to write) to swear fealty to Joffrey, Robb makes the decision to call the banners for the North and march on the capital. At the Eyrie, Catelyn hears this news at the same time as she reads about Ned's imprisonment, and is furious at her sister Lysa for both withholding the information and refusing to take a side in the coming war. Tensions are running high, and the actors & actresses of Thrones are called upon to do some heavy lifting. So there's plenty to talk about in this podcast! Jump in. iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu's cup runneth over with Thrones news. First, they discuss the pilot written by Jane Goldman that was greenlit for a GoT spin-off based thousand of years in the past, around the Age of Heroes before the Long Night. There are many possibilities for new directions where this could go, and it's all very exciting! Manu also provided a Con of Thrones recap, with news on the several panels he either participated on or merely saw. Oh, and he got Gendry (Joe Dempsie) to take a photo cradling a picture of Gendry (Manu's cat). It's wonderful. Finally, the two begin "The Pointy End," which starts with Sansa, Arya, and Ned dealing with the fallout of Lannisters taking over Kings Landing. Septa Mordane and Syrio Forel fall, and only Arya makes her escape. Meanwhile, Varys has a beautifully shot tough talk with Ned in the black cells. It's a jam-packed 41 minutes, so dive right in! The origins of "Todrick Stark" Manu & Kim Renfro's presentation on Thrones memes iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu reach the end of "You Win or You Die," where Jon & Sam swear their Night's Watch oaths before Ghost gives them a, shall we say, unsettling graduation present. In Vaes Dothrak, Drogo swears to Dany that he will get vengeance Westeros for the attack on her life, and back in King's Landing, Robert's death allows Cersei to put Joffrey on the throne and turn the City Watch against Ned Stark, who is betrayed by Littlefinger. Womp. There's so much to talk about, from the specific words of the vows to the exact moment that you can see Lena Headey as Cersei realize that she has Ned completely trapped.  Alan Sepinwall on the juxtaposition of the oaths The patron-only Not a Cast on Barristan Selmy (worth it!) Register for Con of Thrones (this weekend!) with the discount code "Manu" iTunes link Google Play link

Finding a job in the real world can be tough after graduation, but on the bright side for Jon, the Night's Watch already has one prepared. On the unfortunate side, it's as a steward, which was not the role he wanted. Sam and Pyp help bring him back to earth and realize that it could be an even better role than he imagined. Meanwhile, Ned first defies Renly, and then Littlefinger, who both try to tell him that he cannot support Stannis for the Iron Throne in wake of Robert's death. Andrew and Manu delve into Ned's choice, as well as some of the details behind the Night's Watch scenes, like Jon once again not realizing his privilege. At least he has Sam. We all have Sam. Register for Con of Thrones (in 3 weeks!) with the discount code "Manu" iTunes link Google Play link

Welcome, friends, to the last moments of Robert of the House Baratheon, the First of His Name, King of the Andals and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms, and Protector of the Realm. A dying Robert shares some final words with Ned Stark, who must then dwell on his death briefly with Varys and Barristan Selmy. Immediately after this scene, Dany tries to convince Drogo to sail across the Narrow Sea to take the Iron Throne for his future son, Rhaego. Drogo is unmoved, but a later assassination attempt on Dany by a wine seller at the market might very well change his mind. Jorah decides to ignore the royal pardon he receives from Varys and intervenes, saving Dany. Not a Cast on the complex relationship between Joffrey and Robert Joffrey defends Robert to Tywin "A dishonest man you can always trust to be dishonest" Register for Con of Thrones with the discount code "Manu" iTunes link Google Play link

On the latest podcast, Andrew and Manu grapple with one of Game of Thrones' most explicit examples of sexposition to date with Littlefinger's monologuing and then talk about the positives of one of the show's better original scenes -- Theon trying to intimidate Osha before Luwin shuts him down. Jon also gets some bad news about his uncle. More on that later. Lots of show notes for this one, so try to check those out! An example performance of the famous opening soliloquy from Richard III; also a site where Sir Ian McKellan explains it Alt Shift X on the rumored Northern Conspiracy Not a Cast on the difference between how George R.R. Martin writes Wildlings vs. the Dothraki Our season 7 reviews Register for Con of Thrones with the discount code "Manu" iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu celebrate the 7th nameday of the Game of Thrones TV series by beginning the 7th episode of that fateful first season! This episode is called "You Win or You Die," and Cersei not only says the name of the episode in her scene with Ned Stark discussing her children -- she also says the name of the show! Exciting times, to be sure. Before all that though, we are introduced to the intimidating Lannister family patriarch, Tywin, who dresses down the normally unflappable Jaime in the first scene of the episode. Stay tuned at the end for Manu talking about his upcoming Con of Thrones appearance. Tywin talks to Arya about his father, Tytos; also see Tywin's narration about Tytos in the "History & Lore" feature Register for Con of Thrones and go see Manu over Memorial Day weekend! iTunes link Google Play link

It's time to close the book on "A Golden Crown," so it's also time for Andrew and Manu to close the book on one Viserys Targaryen, who overplays his small hand and ends up dead at Khal Drogo's hands from a molten gold crown present. Whoops! In the two other scenes, Theon grudgingly has to bid Ros adieu since she is heading south to King's Landing, and Ned has his "eureka!" moment about Joffrey's parentage when telling his daughters that they must leave the city. This podcast is not from the mouths of babes, but hey! It's a podcast. Enjoy. Compare the scene settings between Ros & Theon's goodbye and Jaime & Brienne's fight Thrones "History & Lore" feature on the origins of House Baratheon Follow Andrew's MLB.com writing on Cut4 in 2018; articles will also be listed weekly at his own site iTunes link Google Play link

Official business is definitely afoot in the penultimate podcast of "A Golden Crown." Standing in for Robert, Ned responds to reports of chaos in the Riverlands with the bold move of calling for the Mountain's head and for Tywin to come to court. Bronn then fights for Tyrion's life against Ser Vardis in The Vale and Joffrey gives a Lannister necklace to an extremely smitten Sansa. Andrew and Manu discuss the ramifications of Ned's power play, compare the trial by combat to the book, and marvel at the beginnings of sassy Sansa with her septa. "Not a Cast" on Septa Mordane in Arya I, A Game of Thrones Watchers on the Wall on Sansa's hair & wardrobe iTunes link Google Play link

Sit down, kick back, and listen to Andrew and Manu on Tyrion Lannister getting a meeting with Lysa Arryn through Mord and the majesty of his "confession." A little bit of the history of trial by combat is also mentioned, as is Robert Baratheon's fateful hunt and his confrontation with Renly about just how good those "good ol' days" were. Take it away, Dinklage. The highly-recommended "Not a Cast" "Binge Mode" on trial by combat Patton Oswalt's Tyrion-esque "Parks & Rec" filbuster iTunes link Google Play link

"A Golden Crown" continues, as Tyrion pleads with Mord the jailer, Syrio urges Arya to focus on her training and not grieve too much on her family's troubles, and Dany wins Dothraki favor by consuming a horse heart. Jorah and Viserys watch the adulation, and a jealous Viserys tries to steal the dragon eggs. The last scene in particular leaves plenty for Andrew and Manu to talk about with Viserys' somewhat-legitimate gripes and the revelations of Jorah's feelings for Dany. Manu's "Black Panther" review iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu watch the beginning of "A Golden Crown," which starts off with a rude awakening for Ned Stark, as Robert & Cersei are at his bedside, ready to cause some immediate strife. After a quick trip across the Narrow Sea to Daenerys trying to heat up a dragon egg, we jump to the North, where Bran can ride a horse again. That only causes trouble for Robb and Theon, though, who must save him from a group wildlings that includes future fan favorite Osha. Oh, and they're arguing, too. Ready to break down the conflicts? Let's go. Con of Thrones link iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu watch and comment as the plots from "The Wolf and the Lion" come to a head in its final segments. We meet Lysa Arryn, who wastes no time throwing Tyrion in a terrifying sky cell, Loras encourages Renly to step up and press his claim, Cersei & Robert have a rare and emotionally powerful heart-to-heart, and finally, Jaime takes on Ned outside Littlefinger's brothel. Shit gets real (RIP Jory), and not just in the fight. The Robert/Cersei scene has so much to explore. Dive in! Ned v. Jaime with lightsabers Con of Thrones link iTunes link Google Play link

Tensions are brewing in Westeros, moreso than usual! Andrew and Manu talk about Yoren informing Ned of Catelyn kidnapping Tyrion, just as that duo arrives at the Bloody Gate of the Vale (where Bronn utters an iconic line). Then, Ned and Robert get in a heated argument at a Small Council meeting over whether or not to kill the now-pregnant Daenerys. Ned rage quits over it, but is kept from leaving King's Landing by Littlefinger, who convinces him to make one more stop. Let's get feisty. Con of Thrones link iTunes link Google Play link

Manu has a wonderful cat. His name is Gendry and he is a beautiful boy. This comes up in this episode since Arya chases after a cat (possibly the Targaryen kitty, Balerion). Oh yeah, and he also talked about "The Wolf and the Lion" with Andrew, specifically the scenes with Varys chatting with Ned and then Illyrio while Arya overhears in the dungeons. Littlefinger found out about it too, and he mentions it during a tête-à-tête with Varys. iTunes link Google Play link

"The Wolf and the Lion" continues as Andrew and Manu watch Bran grudgingly learn some lessons from Maester Luwin, Theon get taken down a peg by Ros, and the Tyrion/Catelyn crew fall under attack by the hill tribes of the Vale. Oh, and Bronn flashes some of his patented badassery for the first time. It doesn't suck! Come for the fight, stay for the Thrones/Star Wars crossover cameos. Con of Thrones link iTunes link Google Play link

The long night since the last podcast is over, and Andrew and Manu are ready to talk some "Wolf and the Lion." Ser Barristan and Ned reminisce about their days on the Trident while musing over Ser Hugh's grim fate, Robert messes with Lancel and has to be talked out of jousting by Ned, and the audience gets its first exposure to the glory of Cleganebowl. We also spent a little time at the start discussing possible prequels and spin-offs given HBO's talks about it and the word that such a show wouldn't come until at least 2020. May we get one more Cleganebowl before this show ends. Watchers on the Wall story about the prequels/spin-offs iTunes link Google Play link  

The last episode of season 7 is here! Andrew and Manu go through "The Dragon and the Wolf." There's the case for Nikolaj Coster-Waldau as season MVP for his outstanding work as Jaime Lannister (particularly as he left Cersei), Tyrion's brilliant showdown with Cersei, his reaction to Jon & Dany's likely doomed pairing, the converging of sides at the Dragonpit, Sansa & Arya bringing Littlefinger down at Winterfell, Bran & Sam discussing the monumental "Aejon" reveal, Lord of the Rings comps, and more. Thoughts on season 8 possibilities are also sprinkled in throughout as we try to get a sense of where Thrones might go next. The long night is coming. Thanks for following along with us throughout season 7! Manu's "Dragon and the Wolf" review at DRaysBay Manu's season 7 roundtable at Screenfellows iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu experience the rollercoaster penultimate episode of season 7, "Beyond the Wall." There's banter and character beats between the Wall's Magnificent 7 (specifically Jon and Tormund, and Jon and Jorah), the horror of the ice bear battle, Beric's future, the concept of siring, the group's desperation to survive on the frozen island, Benjen's role, and Jon's decision to bend the knee. Also discussed: The complications behind Dany's potential successor, the frustrating Winterfell plot, Sansa's intentions with Brienne, and the Night King raising Viserion. It's a trip. Manu's "Beyond the Wall" review at DRaysBay Joanna Robinson's article on magic at Vanity Fair iTunes link Google Play link

In "Eastwatch," Jon assembles his Magnificent Seven Dream Team and bonds with Drogon, Tyrion hatches a crazy-ass plan, Gendry returns, Jaime suffers wayward travels and sibling troubles, Gilly makes a stunning discovery in Oldtown, Sam's frustrations with the maesters mirror real-world comparisons, and Sansa and Arya have a disconcerting spat. There's a ton of table-setting here, but Andrew and Manu are ready to tackle it. Manu's "Eastwatch" review at DRaysBay Emmett Booth's "cowboys" article at Deadspin iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu watch "The Spoils of War" and talk about all the conflicts on Drogon's field of fire -- namely the gradually building pay-offs, Tyrion's anguish, and the camera following compelling characters like Jaime and Bronn throughout. Then, they go up to Winterfell, where they deal with the repercussions of Arya's long-awaited return, Bran's odd interactions with Littlefinger and Meera, and the subsequent familial reunions, before wrapping up with Jon and Dany's discoveries at Dragonstone. Manu's "Spoils of War" review at DRaysBay Joanna Robinson's Arya article at Vanity Fair Jon Snow's slick moves iTunes link Google Play link

Andrew and Manu review "The Queen's Justice," as Tyrion coordinates Jon and Dany's long-awaited meeting, the show expertly misdirects with the Casterly Rock and Highgarden battles, and if the effects of Cersei's victory mean Operation: Engage Dragons. They also discuss Jon and Dany's supernatural elements, Jaime's internal conflict, Bran's unsettling reaction to Sansa at Winterfell, theories about Sam and Jorah, and... #LittlefingerShowerthoughts (the less creepy ones, anyway). Manu's "Queen's Justice" review at DRaysBay iTunes link Google Play link

It's time to talk the second episode of season 7, so Andrew and Manu discuss Euron's manic sea battle (specifically Theon's trauma and Yara's reaction), Dany and Tyrion's decision-making regarding invasion strategy, Jaime's efforts to convince Randyll Tarly to join Cersei's side, Arya's interactions with Hot Pie and Nymeria, Sam's attempts to cure Jorah, political infighting in the North, and Melisandre's surprising meet-up with Dany and company. Needless to say, Euron wasn't being subtle when he told his brother, "I am the storm." Manu's "Stormborn" review at DRaysBay iTunes link Google Play link

The 7th season of Game of Thrones has arrived! Andrew and Manu review the episode with thoughts on various parts, like Arya's show-stealing cold open and its implications, Sam's conversation with the Archmaester at the Citadel, the Jon/Sansa Karstark-Umber debate, the Hound's soul-search with the Brotherhood at the home of the family he left to die in season 4, the #rebranded Euron, Jaime coming to terms with Cersei's growing delusion (what dynasty??), and Dany's silent entrance to Dragonstone.  They also discussed Bran's vision of the undead army and his arrival at the Wall, as well as episode 2 hype (NYMERIA?!). Yes, Ed Sheeran briefly came up, too. We have very tepid takes. Manu's "Dragonstone" review at DRaysBay iTunes link Google Play link

Even though this podcast episode takes place just before "The Wolf and the Lion," there is plenty of Stark vs. Lannister in this one alone. Andrew and Manu talk as Cersei tries to figure out Ned's game in King's Landing and Cersei forces an arrest on a recently-arriving Tyrion at the Inn at the Crossroads. The latter is an especially juicy scene, so away we go. Season 7 full-episode reviews are up next! iTunes link Google Play link

Long episode for Andrew and Manu this week, as they watch Dany stand up to Viserys, Jorah talk to her about him, and Littlefinger explain the origins of Sandor Clegane's scars. Along the way, they delve into House Baelish's past and discuss whether or not Littlefinger knew that Gregor Clegane would kill Ser Hugh (#rip). iTunes link Google Play link