Most Loved Characters in Game of Thrones, Ranked

As a huge fan, I can honestly say Game of Thrones was something special. Even if people didn’t love how it ended, it doesn’t change all the amazing moments we had watching our favorite characters develop, face challenges, and yes, even meet tragic ends. Despite any flaws, the show gave us some of the most unforgettable characters in television history – people we’ll always remember for their strength, smarts, and even their flaws!

Despite featuring plenty of unlikeable characters, Game of Thrones also included well-developed and endearing personalities. These characters offered moments of optimism within the show’s often bleak and tragic fantasy world.

Please be aware that this discussion may contain spoilers! We try to avoid them, but it’s sometimes impossible to talk about characters without revealing key plot points.

10. Davos Seaworth

The Onion Knight Is A Man Of Many Layers

Debut: The North Remembers (Season 2, Episode 1)
Performance by: Liam Cunningham

While characters like the Starks and Lannisters take center stage in Game of Thrones, the show features many memorable supporting characters who make a big impact despite limited screen time. Davos Seaworth is arguably the best of these secondary characters, and he remains a presence throughout a significant portion of the series, even with strong competition from characters like Tormund Giantsbane.

Beyond his important role in the plot, Davos is memorable for being consistently loyal, fair-minded, and possessing a subtle wit. Though he’s seen a lot of hardship, he judges people based on their actions and character, not their background or status. His relationship with Shireen Baratheon is particularly heartwarming within the often-grim world of Game of Thrones. He’s a valuable ally and advisor, as he repeatedly demonstrated to both Jon Snow and Stannis.

9. Eddard “Ned” Stark

Arguably The Most Important Game Of Thrones Character For Setting The Show’s Tone

Debut: Winter Is Coming (Season 1, Episode 1)
Performance by: Sean Bean

Though Eddard Stark doesn’t last long on the show, many consider him one of the most beloved characters in Game of Thrones. In a world filled with morally gray figures, Ned stood out as genuinely honorable and committed to peace, qualities that viewers loved. However, those same traits made him easily exploited in the ruthless political landscape of Westeros. He was simply too honest and good for that world, and his trust was ultimately taken advantage of.

Even though Ned Stark died early in the story, his influence continues to be felt, and his death is a major reason for the Lannisters’ eventual ruin. Unlike Tywin Lannister, who was harsh and uncaring towards his children, Ned was a supportive father. While Ned’s children thrived after his death, Tywin’s mistreatment meant the Lannisters couldn’t survive without his strict control.

8. Samwell Tarly

His Wits Make Up For His Lack Of Physical Strength

Debut: Cripples, Bastards, and Broken Things (Season 1, Episode 4)
Performance by: John Bradley

Samwell Tarly doesn’t appear strong physically, but he’s incredibly intelligent. He’s a brilliant mind who develops important remedies and ultimately writes the history of everything that happens in the story.

Even though Samwell is often scared, he’s a truly brave person and always defends his friends. It’s no surprise he and Jon became such close, loyal friends, facing many terrifying experiences together in Game of Thrones.

7. Arya Stark

Turns Into A Stone-Cold Killer With Incredible Skills

Debut: Winter Is Coming (Season 1, Episode 1)
Performance by: Maisie Williams

Arya didn’t want to follow the traditional path expected of girls like her sister, Sansa. She was a spirited and naturally skilled fighter.

Despite everything, nothing could have truly prepared her for the hardships she faced as a member of the Stark family. She became a skilled fighter, dedicated to avenging those who harmed her, and trained relentlessly as an assassin. Ultimately, she became one of the most capable combatants in the entire story, far surpassing most others.

6. Bronn Of The Blackwater

Could Hold His Own With The Very Best When It Came To Banter

Debut: Cripples, Bastards, and Broken Things (Season 1, Episode 4)
Performance by: Jerome Flynn

Characters who are quick-witted and deliver snappy lines are often the most fun to watch, and Bronn definitely fits that description. His fantastic dynamic with Tyrion made every scene they shared a pleasure.

Although Bronn appeared easygoing, he was actually driven by a desire for power and wasn’t satisfied with his circumstances. His rise to lordship following the Great Council in the Dragonpit proves he was both clever and highly ambitious.

5. Brienne Of Tarth

A Powerful Warrior With A Ton Of Heart Who Deserved Better

Debut: What Is Dead May Never Die (Season 2, Episode 3)
Performance by: Gwendoline Christie

Brienne of Tarth is an exceptionally skilled knight, surpassing many men in her abilities. Though often mocked for her appearance, she possessed a unique beauty and quickly became a fan favorite due to her strength and integrity.

It was beautiful to watch Cersei and Jaime admit their feelings, but Jaime loved his sister too deeply to leave her side. This was devastating for Brienne, who couldn’t persuade the man she used to despise to choose a different path.

4. Sandor “The Hound” Clegane

His Face Turn Makes Him One Of The Series’ Best Characters

Debut: Winter Is Coming (Season 1, Episode 1)
Performance by: Rory McCann

Sandor Clegane, nicknamed the Hound, initially appears harsh and intimidating, someone you wouldn’t want to cross. However, as the story unfolds and he travels with Arya, viewers discover a more complex and surprisingly vulnerable side to his personality.

Sandor Clegane had a terrible upbringing because of his brother. He slowly began to change for the better after traveling with Arya and the Brotherhood Without Banners, though he never fully escaped his past.

3. Jaime Lannister

His Charming Arrogance Hides A Sensitive Side That’s Explored Throughout The Series

Debut: Winter Is Coming (Season 1, Episode 1)
Performance by: Nikolaj Coster-Waldau

I’ve always been captivated by Jaime Lannister. He just had this incredible charisma that drew everyone in, and fans adored him. What’s so amazing is watching his transformation. He starts out seeming like a spoiled, arrogant guy, but as he faces hardship and witnesses terrible things, he really changes and becomes a much more humble person. It’s a really compelling journey to watch.

Losing his dominant hand destroys Jaime’s reputation as a skilled fighter, and he’s repeatedly humiliated by those around him. Despite this, he perseveres and becomes an admirable character, even though his love for Cersei ultimately controls him.

2. Jon Snow

Everyone’s Favorite Illegitimate Son

Debut: Winter Is Coming (Season 1, Episode 1)
Performance by: Kit Harrington

Jon Snow is a fundamentally good person who was unfairly judged for his illegitimate birth. Later, it was revealed he was actually a member of the powerful Targaryen family, secretly protected by Ned Stark. This discovery gave him a legitimate claim to the throne, as he was connected to both House Stark and House Targaryen.

After witnessing Daenerys become a ruthless tyrant, Jon Snow made the difficult but necessary decision to kill her, preventing further destruction. This pivotal moment led him to exile himself, retreating to the Night’s Watch to avoid the consequences and the wrath of those still loyal to Daenerys.

1. Tyrion Lannister

His Sharp Tongue Makes Every Scene Featuring Him A Joy To Witness

Debut: Winter Is Coming (Season 1, Episode 1)
Performance by: Peter Dinklage

Peter Dinklage’s portrayal of Tyrion Lannister immediately captivated audiences and continued to define the character throughout the entire series. Though born with dwarfism, Tyrion proved to be more intelligent and honorable than his brothers and sister.

It was unfortunate that people judged him based on his appearance, but Tyrion quickly proved his worth with his sharp mind. He became one of the most captivating characters in the series, and players especially enjoyed his witty, sarcastic insults followed by moments of brilliant advice to those in power.

2025-12-11 17:07