Few TV shows have sparked as many passionate debates as Game of Thrones. With its complex politics, intense battles, and ever-twisting alliances, the show gave us some of the most unforgettable moments in television history. But beyond the dragons and sword fights, it was the Game of Thrones characters that truly kept us invested.
Some were hailed as heroes, others as villains—and a few managed to be both. In this article, we explore seven Game of Thrones characters that fans either absolutely adored or couldn’t stand.
1. Jon Snow
Backstory: Jon Snow begins his journey as the supposed illegitimate child of Eddard Stark, growing up in the shadows of Winterfell’s noble halls. Feeling like an outsider, he chooses to join the Night’s Watch, a sworn brotherhood guarding the Wall in the North. Over the seasons, Jon grows into a natural leader, eventually becoming the Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch. His character arc expands as he forges alliances with the Wildlings, faces the Night King, and ultimately learns the truth about his Targaryen lineage—Aegon Targaryen, the rightful heir to the Iron Throne.
Why Fans Loved Him: Jon was brave, humble, and selfless. His honorable nature and inner conflict made him incredibly relatable. His mysterious heritage only added to his allure.
Why Some Didn’t: A few fans felt his brooding personality became stale over time, and his final decision in the series finale left many conflicted.
2. Daenerys Targaryen
Backstory: Born during a storm in exile, Daenerys is one of the last surviving members of House Targaryen. Initially timid and controlled by her abusive brother Viserys, she gains strength and confidence after being married off to Khal Drogo. Following his death, she hatches three dragon eggs and begins her quest to reclaim the Iron Throne. Along the way, she liberates cities from slavery, commands armies, and becomes known as the Breaker of Chains. Her path is marked by a belief in justice—though it slowly gives way to vengeance.
Why Fans Loved Her: Her transformation from a timid girl into a fearless leader inspired many. Her compassion for the downtrodden made her a fan favorite for most of the series.
Why Some Didn’t: Her dramatic shift toward tyranny in the final season shocked and alienated many viewers, turning a once-beloved character into one of the most hated Game of Thrones characters by the end.
3. Tyrion Lannister
Backstory: Tyrion is the youngest son of the powerful House Lannister, constantly belittled by his father and sister due to his dwarfism. Despite being dismissed by many, Tyrion uses his sharp wit and intellect to navigate the deadly politics of Westeros. He serves as Hand of the King to Joffrey and later aligns with Daenerys as her most trusted advisor. Throughout the series, Tyrion struggles with his identity, relationships, and morality in a world where survival often means compromising one’s soul.
Why Fans Loved Him: His sarcasm, cleverness, and heart won over viewers. Tyrion brought humor and depth to every scene he was in.
Why Some Didn’t: In the final seasons, fans felt his strategic genius diminished, with a string of poor decisions that tarnished his legacy.
4. Cersei Lannister
Backstory: The eldest daughter of Tywin Lannister, Cersei is fiercely ambitious and deeply devoted to her children. She rises through the ranks of power, first as Queen, then as Queen Regent, and finally as Queen of the Seven Kingdoms in her own right. Her lust for power, combined with paranoia and cunning, drives her to manipulate, murder, and betray anyone who stands in her way. Her deep hatred for the Tyrells, Starks, and eventually Daenerys shapes much of the series’ political tension.
Why Fans Loved Her: Some admired her fierce maternal instincts and political cunning. She was a strong female character who played the game masterfully.
Why Many Hated Her: Cersei’s cruelty, narcissism, and manipulations made her one of the most despised Game of Thrones characters. Her role in the deaths of several beloved characters fueled fan anger.
5. Arya Stark
Backstory: Arya starts off as a young tomboy who rejects the traditional role expected of noble girls. After witnessing her father’s execution, she begins a dangerous journey across Westeros and beyond. Arya trains with the Faceless Men in Braavos, mastering the art of assassination. She returns to Westeros a hardened warrior and methodically eliminates names from her kill list—including the deadly execution of the Night King, one of the series’ most iconic moments.
Why Fans Loved Her: Arya’s transformation from a rebellious child into a skilled warrior was thrilling. Her fierce independence and sense of justice struck a chord with viewers.
Why Some Didn’t: A small segment of fans felt her storyline lost depth during the Faceless Men arc and that her powers were sometimes too convenient.
6. Joffrey Baratheon
Backstory: Joffrey is believed to be the son of King Robert Baratheon but is actually the product of incest between Cersei and Jaime Lannister. Crowned king at a young age, Joffrey quickly becomes known for his cruelty, impulsiveness, and sadistic tendencies. His rule is marked by paranoia and abuse, notably the execution of Ned Stark, which sets the war of the five kings into motion.
Why Some Loved Him: As strange as it sounds, some viewers appreciated how effectively Joffrey was written and acted. He was the villain you loved to hate.
Why Most Hated Him: Joffrey’s cruelty knew no bounds—murder, torture, and manipulation made him arguably the most hated of all Game of Thrones characters.
7. Brienne of Tarth
Backstory: Born into nobility but shunned for her appearance and interests, Brienne chose a life of knighthood despite widespread ridicule. She pledges her sword first to Renly Baratheon and later to Catelyn Stark. Her journey is marked by unwavering loyalty, especially to Jaime Lannister, whom she tries to redeem. Eventually knighted by Jaime, Brienne becomes a symbol of honor, integrity, and quiet strength.
Why Fans Loved Her: Brienne’s unwavering loyalty, sense of justice, and strength made her a symbol of true knighthood. Her emotional arc, especially with Jaime, was a highlight.
Why Some Didn’t: A few viewers found her storyline with Jaime disappointing and believed she deserved more recognition for her heroism.
There’s no denying that Game of Thrones characters left a lasting impact on pop culture. From noble heroes to loathed tyrants, these personalities sparked debate, inspired fan art, and changed the way we see fantasy storytelling. Whether you loved them or hated them, each of these Game of Thrones characters helped make the series unforgettable.
