It certainly rubbed a lot of people the wrong way. While some brought up valid criticisms of the rushed nature of the final season, others simply labelled showrunners David Benioff and D.B. Weiss “horrible writers who butchered George R.R. Martin’s epic story.” Many are under the impression that the books will have a completely different ending from the show — the so-called “proper ending.” However, this cannot be further from the truth. In an interview with HBO, Isaac Hempstead Wright, the actor who plays Bran said that his coronation came directly from the genius mind of George R.R. Martin.
This is in line with what George R.R. Martin himself mentioned recently on his blog. In regards to the ending of Game of Thrones, Martin mentioned that it is somewhat similar to his book, especially where it concerns major plot points. The main differences would be the fate of many of the supporting characters as well as the depth and length of the journey. Isaac Hempstead Wright also mentioned in the HBO interview that he was beyond shocked when he found out that the series would close out with him as the king.
But I think he is a great character to take on that role. You never thought of him in that way, but what more could you ask for in a king than to have no personal attachments, no agenda, but have a calm understanding of the entire universe? He’s the ideal person to be in charge.” While Bran sudden coronation does come as a major shock, it certainly is in line with one of the major themes of the series. Right from the first episode of season 1, we get the impression that Game of Thrones is a tale about ‘bastards, cripples and broken things’ just as much as it is about kings and queens. Through Tyrion, Bran and Jon Snow, the series has shown us that greatness can come from the unlikeliest of places and people. Not to mention, Jamie pushing Bran out of the window indirectly kick-started the War of the Five Kings. Bran is also the first POV chapter in Martin’s books. (Source: HBO)
