
Robert’s Rebellion stands as a pivotal chapter in the lore of Game of Thrones, sparking curiosity about why it hasn’t yet become a standalone TV series or film. HBO has certainly shown an interest in expanding its universe set in Westeros, with multiple spinoffs in various stages of development. So far, only House of the Dragon has made its way to our screens.
In 2025, audiences can look forward to A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, but that’s not all. Other projects are on the horizon, including shows focused on Aegon’s Conquest and an animated series featuring Corlys Velaryon. While these planned productions do not directly connect to the original series, it’s reasonable to hypothesize that the narrative of Robert’s Rebellion might eventually make a prominent return to HBO’s programming slate.
Reasons for the Delay in Robert’s Rebellion Adaptation
George R. R.Martin’s Views



Game of Thrones did offer glimpses of Robert’s Rebellion through Bran Stark’s visions, showcasing critical events such as:
- Lyanna Stark’s marriage to Rhaegar Targaryen.
- Ned Stark and Howland Reed’s confrontation with three Kingsguard members, including Ser Arthur Dayne.
- Lyanna giving birth to a baby boy, confirming Jon Snow’s true heritage, with Ned vowing to protect him.
- Jaime Lannister’s assassination of the Mad King, Aerys II Targaryen.
Despite these significant moments, George R. R.Martin has expressed reservations regarding a spinoff on Robert’s Rebellion. In a 2017 post on his Not A Blog, he remarked:
We’re not doing Robert’s Rebellion either. I know thousands of you want that, I know there’s a petition… but by the time I finish writing A SONG OF ICE & FIRE, you will know every important thing that happened in Robert’s Rebellion. There would be no surprises or revelations left in such a show, just the acting out of conflicts whose resolutions you already know. That’s not a story I want to tell just now; it would feel too much like a twice-told tale.
Interestingly, reports in 2021 suggested that HBO had at least considered a prequel focused on Robert’s Rebellion, although developments have since stalled, leaving fans in anticipation.
The Case for a Robert’s Rebellion Spinoff
A Potentially Lucrative Venture

With A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms gearing up for release in 2025, it’s crucial to note that Martin had originally downplayed the potential adaptation of this series as well. He previously stated:
We’re not doing Dunk & Egg. Eventually, sure, I’d love that, and so would many of you. But I’ve only written and published three novellas to date, and there are at least seven or eight or ten more I want to write… When the day comes that I’ve finished telling all my tales of Dunk & Egg, then we’ll do a tv show about them… but that day is still a long ways off.
Yet, the adaptation is happening, which raises the question: why not Robert’s Rebellion? The narrative holds immense significance within the Game of Thrones universe and represents a surefire hit for HBO and its parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery.
### Market Viability and Audience Demand
This tale allows for the reintroduction of beloved characters like Ned Stark and Jaime Lannister, all while retaining the allure of the Targaryens, who have played a pivotal role in previous series. Moreover, it would allow HBO to bypass the criticisms associated with the controversial ending of Game of Thrones.
Given the studio’s current strategy of remaking established franchises, like the Harry Potter series and a new Lord of the Rings movie, pursuing Robert’s Rebellion appears not only wise but inevitable. It offers a seamless connection to the original storyline, presenting a compelling case for adaptation.
Furthermore, the upcoming stage production, The Iron Throne, which adapts parts of the rebellion’s lore such as the Tourney of Harrenhal, hints at a growing interest in the full saga, potentially generating appetite for a broader adaptation.
The Rich Narrative Potential of Robert’s Rebellion
A Story Worth Telling

While some may argue against the necessity of adapting Robert’s Rebellion, its narrative depth and the involvement of George R. R.Martin could contribute significantly to a successful adaptation. The storyline is rich with elements that made Game of Thrones captivating, including intricate politics, fierce battles, romances, unexpected plot twists, and heart-wrenching character deaths.
This tale is fundamental to the broader Game of Thrones narrative arc and has enough established facts to make a compelling adaptation feasible. A limited series format, running approximately 8-10 episodes, could delve into character backstories, pivotal relationships, and overarching conflicts. Alternatively, a film trilogy could also serve as a fitting medium to explore the depths of this critical saga.
Ultimately, the argument against adaptation due to a perceived lack of surprise undermines the potential for storytelling richness. After all, successful adaptations, such as Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings, showcased how audiences can experience beloved tales anew, allowing for the addition of fresh perspectives and insights.
Upcoming Game of Thrones Spinoffs |
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---|---|---|
Title |
Description |
Status |
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms |
An adaptation of George R. R.Martin’s The Tales of Dunk & Egg novellas. |
Season 1 set to release in 2025 on HBO and Max. |
House of the Dragon |
Continuing the story of the Targaryen civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons. |
Season 3 expected in 2026; season 4 will conclude the series. |
Aegon’s Conquest |
The journey of King Aegon I Targaryen as he conquers Westeros with his sisters, Rhaenys and Visenya. |
Currently in development. |
10, 000 Ships |
Focusing on Princess Nymeria leading her people, the Rhoynar, to Dorne after a war with Valyria. |
In development. |
Nine Voyages |
An animated adventure featuring Corlys Velaryon’s renowned voyages across the Known World. |
In development. |
The Golden Empire (unofficial) |
An animated series set in the eastern empire of Yi Ti. |
In development. |
TBC |
Another live-action spinoff from the Game of Thrones universe. |
In development. |
TBC |
A further animated series set in the Game of Thrones world. |
In development. |
TBC |
Potentially a Game of Thrones feature film. |
In development. |
Reflecting on this topic has only heightened my enthusiasm for seeing Robert’s Rebellion come to life. It’s clear that its adaptation is not just feasible, but also imperative for the continued success of the Game of Thrones franchise. The real question remains: when will it happen? Although it may take some years, the notion of its indefinite omission seems unrealistic.
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