Game of Thrones Prequel More Likely Than Spinoff

Game of Thrones may be one of the most popular television shows on right now, but its time is soon coming to an end. Season 7 will premiere in summer 2017 (later than usual), but after that, there is just season 8 left to finish up the epic saga of Westeros.

As the final Game of Thrones seasons approach, there’s been a lot of speculation about if and how HBO will continue the franchise. The most persistent speculation has been that a prequel series about Westeros, or spinoff series about a different set of characters are the most likely scenario (as opposed to a sequel).

Next: Five Game Of Thrones Spinoff Ideas

Now we can narrow down the possibility for Game of Thrones‘ continuation even further, as HBO programming president Casey Bloys tells EW that over at HBO, they’re currently leaning toward a specific format for a continuing series:

“A prequel feels like it has less pressure on it [than a spin-off]. [Author George R.R. Martin’s history of Westeros] gives you areas in which to say to a writer, ‘If you were going to do this, then go flesh it out,’ and we’ll see what comes back. But I don’t feel any pressure that we have to have something.“

Game of Thrones added a new dimension to season 6 by having Bran Stark serve as the new Three-eyed Raven, watching over Westeros. With the ability to see through time, Bran was able to take viewers to key moments in Westeros’ past – including a pivotal battle of “Robert’s Rebellion” that wowed fans. The success of those flashback moments has convinced many fans that a Game of Thrones prequel would be an exciting prospect; sounds like execs over at HBO are hearing the rally cry.

MORE GoT NEWS: Spinoff Plans Update / Oona Chaplin Speaks Out About The Game Of Thrones’s Nudity And Porn / Iain Glen Explains Why Game Of Thrones Season 7 Is Taking So Long To Make / Game of Thrones Spinoff Plans Confirmed by HBO Boss / Major Character Is Back In Game Of Thrones Set Photos / Game Of Thrones Season 7 Plot Leaks Online / Game of Thrones Season 7 Rumors Hint at Family Conflict / Game Of Thrones: George R.R. Martin Thinks Winds Of Winter Will Be Out This Year / Game Of Thrones Meets Westworld In Fan Mashup / Game Of Thrones Is Most Torrented Show Of 2016 / Game Of Thrones Casting Director Comments On Diversity Concerns

Game of Thrones returns to HBO in summer 2017.