The Night's Cast

There was a lot to love about the first season of House of the Dragon and even more to hotly (heh) debate, so for a little bit of offseason fun, The Night's Cast is bringing you the best of and not-so-best-of HOTD. It's the first-ever Hottest D Awards! In this special episode, Petra, Samantha and Vanessa hand out the Hottest D's to best actor, character, location, and more -- and the not-so-best-of get their own recognition in the form of the Shrinkies.

The first season of House of the Dragon ended with a shocking death, a furious glare, and plenty of chatter about the season as a whole, and the Night's Cast is no exception (about the chatter -- not so much the death and fury). Join Petra, Samantha and Vanessa as they discuss the final episode of the season, "The Black Queen," and its high points, low points, and everything in between.

The King is dead. Long live the Q... uh, King? In "The Green Council," the Greens conspire and successfully steal Rhaenyra's throne (for now) and will likely face significant backlash from the Blacks as we head into the finale on Sunday. On this week's episode, Vanessa and Petra discuss character motivations (or lack thereof), choices and their consequences, and who really cares about the smallfolk anyway?

To paraphrase a well-known saying, this is how a king's reign ends: not with a bang, but with a whisper. This week's episode of House of the Dragon brought all the feels, as we said goodbye to Viserys Targaryen (keep that #AnEmmyforPaddy trend going) and watched an unfortunate miscommunication set up further erosion of the fragile peace in Westeros. Join Petra and Samantha on this week's episode of The Night's Cast as they discuss all this and more!

Nothing puts the fun in funeral like a dysfunctional family reunion. "Driftmark" brought tensions to a boiling point and sowed further division among the royal family, setting the stage for greater conflict to come. On this week's episode, Vanessa and Petra talk dragon riding and "dragon" riding, and the consequences of both.

After last week's hard-hitting (heh) wedding episode we've jumped ahead in time by 10 years this week on House of the Dragon, to see that Princess Rhaenyra has just given birth to her third child, albeit of questionable parentage -- and that tensions are high surrounding the line of succession. On this episode, Petra and Vanessa discuss the gathering storm of Alicent's maneuverings, Viserys' ill health, Rhaenyra's children, Harwin Strong's untimely death (RIP to our favorite himbo), and more.

Ah, weddings in Westeros...never a dull moment (even if the Dothraki may disagree). In "We Light the Way," hearts were broken - along with skulls - and allegiances shifted in a fantastic conclusion to the first half of the season. On this week's episode of the Night's Cast, Vanessa and Petra discuss lovesick knights and the terrible decisions they make, secrets and the wedges they drive between friends, and Daemon Targaryen and how he keeps getting away with...well, everything.

This week "King of the Narrow Sea" gave us good sex, bad sex and weird foreplay as we approach the House of the Dragon season midpoint. On this week's episode of the Night's Cast, Petra and David discuss sex scenes, the down side of fast-paced timelines and whether or not Daemon's penis is his Jiminy Cricket.

Episode three of House of the Dragon was a splendid spectacle - from a fiery beach battle, to a lavish glamping party, to a chaotic suicide run. "Second of His Name" was a pivotal episode for several characters, and we can't wait to see what awaits them in the weeks to come. On this week's episode of the Night's Cast, Vanessa and Petra discuss teenage angst, the difficulties of running a kingdom (and handling a strongwilled daughter), and Daemon's plot armor of Valyrian steel.

Another week, another episode of House of the Dragon on the books. "The Rogue Prince" may not have been as action packed as the premiere, but it still gave us us plenty of intrigue, indecision, and yes, ickiness, to chew on as we wait for Sunday night. On this week's episode of the Night's Cast, Vanessa and David discuss how Viserys is a very bad dad (and not so great at the king stuff either) and the political ramifications of his terrible decision making - or lack thereof.

The highly-anticipated spinoff is here! On this week's episode of the Night's Cast, we talk about the record-breaking series premiere of House of the Dragon, which delivered on the hype (and then some!) as Westeros, the Targaryens, and dragons came thundering back onto our screens.

Last week, we were gifted with a new official HOUSE OF THE DRAGON trailer that clocks in at nearly three full minutes. On this episode of The Night's Cast, the official podcast of Watchers on the Wall, Petra and Vanessa comb through the trailer for delicious tidbits of information, oohs and aahs over costuming, lots of speculating, and more!

Do we remember how to do this? We sure hope so, because an actual, factual trailer for House of the Dragon has dropped, and we're delighted to break it down. Join Petra, Vanessa, and Samantha for their take on what the trailer has -- and what it doesn't -- on this episode of the Night's Cast, the official podcast of Watchers on the Wall.

The 10-year anniversary of the world's most-watched, most celebrated, most talked-about TV series is here, and although The Night's Cast wasn't around then, many of our contributors were already fans -- or they became addicted like so many of the rest of us. At any rate, Petra, Samantha, Vanessa, and WoTW's own founder and editor-in-chief, Sue The Fury, gathered for a new episode of the podcast to reminisce about the series premiere of GoT.

More casting news has been announced for the Game of Thrones spinoff -- dare we say that the production train is picking up steam? Join Petra and Samantha for a quick breakdown of the newest casting and some fun speculation as to what it means for House of the Dragon!

We have RETURNED! Join Sue, Samantha, Vanessa, Petra and Akash for a great break down of all the casting and production news we know so far about the GoT spinoff "House of the Dragon."

Last week was -- to put it mildly -- a bit of a rollercoaster as far as Game of Thrones news was concerned, especially when it came to the spinoff/prequel shows in development at HBO. It gave the fandom whiplash, but it also gave us plenty to talk about! On this week's episode of The Night's Cast, Vanessa, Petra and Samantha do just that: we talk about which prequel got the (somewhat unexpected) axe and which one seems to be fast-tracking toward production.

There's big (potential) news in the realm, and if it turns out to be anything of substance, we'll be seeing much more fire and blood on our small screens in the not-so-distant future -- and the Night's Cast is here to break down exactly what that means! On this bonus episode, Petra, Samantha and Vanessa discuss the news that HBO is reportedly close to giving the greenlight on a House Targaryen-centered spinoff. What might we see in this spinoff? How did it get to this point in development? We're here to talk you through it!

Okay, fine -- technically, summer is over (and winter is coming!). But The Night's Cast still has one more history class to teach, so settle in for the last time this semester! This week, Vanessa, Petra and Samantha wrap up their guest teaching slots at the Citadel by covering the basics of the Long Night (in case you need a refresher) and some of the mysterious civilizations of Essos -- one or more of which will figure into the still-tentatively-titled prequel in the works, Blood Moon.

We're continuing our series of Westeros History 101 with another installment in Summer School at the Citadel -- so if you're feeling a bit overwhelmed with the talk behind the Game of Thrones spinoff in the works, which deals with a Westeros thousands of years older than what we saw in the original show, pick up a quill and have a seat! Your co-maesters Petra, Samantha and Vanessa are back this week, talking about the Westerlands, the Reach, the Casterlys, and some other areas of Westeros we may -- or may not, it's still all speculation at this point -- see in the tentatively-titled Blood Moon.

Feeling a little lost with all the prequel talk of "the Age of Heroes" and other Westeros history? Have no idea who Lann the Clever is? Why does that Stark sigil we glimpsed from the set look different? Not to worry -- school is in session! The Night's Cast is your visiting maester for a couple of episodes we're calling Summer School at the Citadel, in which we dive into any and all Westeros (and some Essos) history that might be relevant to the upcoming spinoff. This week, join Vanessa, Petra and Samantha for lesson number one on the Dawn Age, early Starks and more.

Get hype for the brothers Clegane, and examine their dysfunctional family dynamic and brutal rivalry. Was the conclusion to their longstanding grudge inevitable, or could it have been avoided? Was it satisfying, or do Ser Gregor and his little brother deserve so much more? Featuring Axechucker and Oz of Watchers on the Wall, Sean Pink of History of Westeros, and Jason Concepcion and Mallory Rubin of Binge Mode.

Alys Karstark and Meera Reed, Sansa Stark and Dacey Mormont. From Bear Island to White Harbor, the North is comprised of some of the most badass ladies in ASOIAF. Join Britt of Scavenger Squad Cosplay and Samantha of Watchers on the Wall as they celebrate the Northern ladies of the past, present and future!

The Targaryens are the most well-known inhabitants of Valyria to settle in Westeros, but they're not the only ones. House Velaryon and House Celtigar also left the ancient city across the sea and headed west. Let's explore these great and oft-forgotten houses of Valyria. Featuring Samantha of Watchers on the Wall, John (Hamfast42), Laura (MissMatchedEyes) and Toemas Pappas.

One of the most shocking scenes in television history, the Red Wedding, became a pop culture phenomenon. Relive the wildest reactions with fellow fans and discuss why it had such a lasting impact on us all. Featuring Axechucker and Bex from Watchers on the Wall, Samantha Adolfo and Lindsey Romain.

Common-born characters such as Davos, Missandei, Bronn, Gilly and others play the game of thrones very differently than their noble counterparts. Some even play it better! Let's discuss why this may be and what we can learn from these differences. Featuring Luka Nieto and David Rosenblatt from Watchers on the Wall, Daphne Olive and Michael (bookshelfstud) of Maester Monthly.

Dragons continued to hatch until after the Dance of the Dragons in 129 AC, but there were troubling signs well before that their health and vitality were declining. What, exactly, caused the Targaryens' powerful creatures to die? Featuring Samantha and Vanessa from Watchers on the Wall and GreyArea.

One of the many likenesses between George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire and Shakespeare's plays is the presentation of villainy. This panel examines why villains are important in literature and also compares several villains in ASOIAF and their Shakespearean counterparts, including Tyrion/Richard III, Littlefinger/Iago and Cersei/Lady Macbeth. Finally, our panelists will lead a discussion on how these particular character arcs might differ in the books as opposed to the show. Featuring Samantha of Watchers on the Wall and Lauren, the mind behind @shakesofthrones.

In the "At Journey's End" series, we look back on eight seasons of character development for our favorite major characters. In the panel, we'll examine how Brienne of Tarth has survived her adventures and retained her honor against all odds. Featuring Jason Concepcion and Mallory Rubin of Binge Mode, SueTheFury of Watchers on the Wall, BeautyBrienne, and Chris Wright.

In the "At Journey's End" series, we look back on eight seasons of character development for our favorite major characters. In this panel, we reminisce about Arya's journey from adventurous child to fearless assassin. Featuring Samantha of Watchers on the Wall, Azor Ahype, Liz Bistline and Jocelyn Womack.

Since Aegon the Conquerer united the Seven Kingdoms, there have been three Great Councils to determine issues of succession for the Iron Throne. It is the first, the one in 101 AC, that was also the most fateful. Let's discuss what made it so significant and memorable despite being so long ago. Featuring Samantha and Vanessa of Watchers on the Wall, Jess Chirico and Lauren Marchisotto of Fire and Lunch, and Jim McGeehin.

Targaryen women had much more influence during their conquest and early reign in Westeros, but we don't see that reflected in later centuries. Was this the missing influence of Valyrian culture or something else? We will examine the factors that led to the diminished role of women in Westeros. Featuring Samantha and Vanessa of Watchers on the Wall, Archmaester Aemma and Jim McGeehin.

Gather for the 2019 rendition of our annual fun discussion of love, sex, and romance -- Westerosi style! Featuring Bex and Dave Rosenblatt of Watchers on the Wall, Kristine Kippins, Jinx Lierre and Steve Love.

Let's break down the Endgame. No. Not that one. The finale of one of the biggest and most watched shows in the world, Game of Thrones. Is the conclusion what we were hoping for and, if not, how could it have been improved? Bring your paper bags to breathe into, because this may be stressful. Featuring Oz of Thrones and SueTheFury of Watchers on the Wall, Jason Concepcion and Mallory Rubin of Binge Mode and Jocelyn Womack.

This year's Con of Thrones may have come and gone, but there's plenty of memories and lots of material to roll out, starting with a very special LIVE episode of The Night's Cast! The podcast was recorded Sunday, July 14th and included an all-star cast of contributors: Axey, Oz of Thrones, Vanessa, JoeMagician, Pat Sponaugle, Petra, Bex and Samantha. If you weren't able to join us in Nashville, you can hear us talk all about our choices for Best Character Moments and hear a rousing rendition of "Happy Nameday," sung in honor of Pat's birthday!

Emmy nominations are out, the Game of Thrones prequel continues filming, another year of Con of Thrones has come and gone -- there's plenty for The Night's Cast to chew over this week. So they dug in! Join Vanessa, Samantha, Petra and Akash on this week's episode, in which we discuss the highs and lows of the 32 Emmy nominations that Thrones garnered; the most recent prequel filming news (also known as the "Sam refuses to believe we WON'T we see the Rhoynar" segment); and the third annual Con of Thrones, including our favorite moments.

We're back -- The Night's Cast has returned to your airwaves after a short hiatus! This week, Vanessa and Samantha get pumped for the third annual Con of Thrones, which begins next Friday in Nashville, and break down recent casting, filming and production news for the Game of Thrones spinoff tentatively titled Blood Moon (although we'd like to reiterate that this is not the "official" title released by HBO and could still be a production codename only). Enjoy!

Well...it's come and gone, folks. The series finale of the most epic, incredible story we've ever seen splash across our TV screens. We've had time to let our Thoughts and Opinions marinate, and this week we recap and react -- for the last time -- to Season 8, Episode 6, "The Iron Throne." Join Axey, Vanessa and Samantha as they talk through happy endings, not-so-happy endings, their feelings on the show coming to an end, and what being a part of the incredible fandom has meant to them.

A torched city, a dead queen, utter madness -- there's an AWFUL lot we could discuss about Season 8, Episode 5 of Game of Thrones on the Night's Cast. So we will! This week, Axey, Lady Geoffrey and Samantha discuss some of the major happenings in the penultimate episode of Season 8 (and the series!), "The Bells."

Episode 3 of Season 8 of Game of Thrones, "The Long Night," may go down as one of the most divisive episodes in the series' history -- and just like everyone else, The Night's Cast has opinions! This week, Petra and Samantha weigh in on the halfway point of the final season of the show and what worked, what didn't, and how this might affect the final three episodes.

Our collective hearts were full to bursting after Sunday's episode, "A Knight of The Seven Kingdoms" (don't remind us that it's probably just to soften the blow of the coming third episode), and The Night's Cast couldn't wait to recap it! Join Vanessa and Samantha as they discuss the second episode of Season 8, from Theon's return to Winterfell to a certain ship setting sail and the emotional scene of Brienne receiving the knighthood she's dreamt of.

The season is HERE! And with it comes a deluge of articles, recaps, videos and podcasts for every episode -- and The Night's Cast is pleased to be part of the onslaught! Join us every Tuesday morning as we recap and react to Sunday's episode. This week, naturally, it's the premiere episode, "Winterfell" and Vanessa and Samantha are here to break down some of the details.

Only a weekend stands between us and the premiere of Season 8 of Game of Thrones, and we can't quite believe it's almost here. We have so many questions for the final season to answer, and while The Night's Cast can't answer them all, we can give you some food for thought as you head into premiere weekend! We're concluding our White Book episodes, in which we discuss the character arcs and possible endgames of some of the characters who are still standing as Season 8 begins. This week, Samantha and Akash of the Andals are joined by Travis and Brett from the wonderful Planetos Podcast to discuss Bran Stark, Varys, Jon Snow and the Hound.

We know that time is ticking down until the Season 8 premiere (only six days!!) and we're all feeling pretty anxious. Fortunately, we're here to soothe your nerves with our dulcet tones and character discussions. This week we're continuing our White Book episodes, in which we each choose a remaining character and discuss their lives, deeds and possible ends. Join Vanessa, Petra, Samantha and special guest Arjun, host of the Deep Into History podcast, as we examine Daenerys, Theon, Jorah and Davos.

We know, we know -- technically The White Book is reserved for recording the lives, deeds and deaths of knights of the Kingsguard. But we needed a clever name for the character studies that we're undertaking until Season 8 premieres, and we will be talking about those characters' lives, deeds and (possible) deaths, so here we are. This week, Samantha, Axey and Akash of the Andals welcome Susan from the Geek Girl Soup podcast as we talk about the characters arcs and possible endgames for Sansa Stark, Jaime Lannister, Cersei Lannister and Arya Stark.

It's been a long road, but we've arrived at our final Season 7 episode rewatch -- and what an episode to go out on. This week, Petra, Vanessa and Samantha are joined by special guest Kim Renfro of Insider to discuss the epic Season 7 finale, "The Dragon and the Wolf," and the result is an epic episode (our longest yet!) full of insightful analysis, laughs at our own expense and a very bad imitation of squeaky bedsprings.

After a bonus episode analyzing the Season 8 trailer, we're back! This time on The Night's Cast, the official podcast of Watchers on the Wall, we're discussing the sixth episode of Season 7, "Beyond The Wall," and all the things that come along with it -- much-debated weight hunt and all. Join Petra, Samantha and special guest Robert from In Deep Geek as we break down the penultimate episode of Season 7! *Note: This episode was recorded prior to the release of the Season 8 trailer*

Praise be to every god or goddess of Westeros (and beyond, what the hell): today we got the long-awaited trailer for Season 8 of Game of Thrones! As we've done with every shred of new material this offseason, we couldn't wait to jump on the trailer and discuss what these spare two minutes can tell us -- and there's a lot to discuss, from the visually enticing bits (Dragons over Winterfell! An epic battle! The sky lit by fire!) to the potential for emotional elation and devastation alike (Jon probably rides a dragon! A lot of our favorites are in mortal danger! Jaime is fighting for the Good Guys!). Join Lady Geoffrey, Vanessa and Samantha as they break down everything they can about the trailer (and throw in some discussion about the EW cover shots and portraits)!

We're getting pretty good at this bonus episode thing -- probably because HBO is drawing out the marketing for Season 8 as much as possible and giving us lots of stuff to analyze and discuss. That's okay, we'll take it! Join Petra, Axey and Samantha for this bonus episode as they break down the possibilities and bust out some tinfoil over the newly-released official Season 8 posters.

Dragonflame and charging Dothraki hordes are a tough act to follow, but Episode 5, “Eastwatch,” filled the bill nicely. Or at least that's the conclusion we came to on this week's episode of The Night's Cast! Join Vanessa, Bex, Samantha and special guests Michael and Matt (also known as Watchers' very own JoeMagician) of Maester Monthly as we talk Episode 5 and somehow find a way to fit in more than one reference to Limp Bizkit.

There's a lot about Season 7 to raise an eyebrow over, but chances are "The Spoils of War" isn't one of them. And if it is, we're here to change your mind! Join Petra, Vanessa, Samantha and very special guests Joanna Robinson and Watchers' very own fearless leader Sue the Fury this week to talk about the high-octane (sorry...bad fire pun) fourth episode of Seven 7.