Before you say anything, your favorite underrated character may not be on this list. Game of Thrones has such a vast collection of characters that there are literally dozens that you could mention. For this article, my fellow Geek Vibes Nation contributor Kevin Scott and I discussed who we thought were a good handful of characters that just don’t get the appreciation they deserve. There was a long list, but for the sake of this feature, here are the five that we’ve picked to represent.
The Hound
Granted, season seven saw a good amount of online attention and appreciation for the Hound, but up until then, he was a character I felt that many took for granted. The story arc for Sandor Clegane was one of a guard under King Robert Baratheon, then Joffrey who he despised just as much as we did. When Clegane decided to say “eff it” and leave during battle, I cheered loudly. Finally, someone told that spoiled little brat off. Not only did we have a lot of quality Arya and Hound scenes that we both hilarious and at time endearing, but he’s a powerhouse. I can’t wait for the eight season where hopefully Clegane Bowl will happen!
Theon Greyjoy
I get it. Theon is not everyone’s cup of tea. Alfie Allen is such a fantastic actor that he brings us along with him as he acts out this up and down journey of Theon. We first meet Theon and all he is, is some kid who enjoys the most basic of human pleasures. Then we despise him for betraying Rob Stark, a man who he had pledged loyalty for. I would argue, though; that considering Theon was essentially an asset/slave of House Stark, maybe it’s understandable he’d jump ship back to his homeland at the first chance. Still, what he suffered at the hands of Ramsay Bolton is no short of a nightmare for any man. We could have seen Theon as redeemed, but then he had to ruin it again by leaving his sister at the mercy of his murderous uncle. Theon has since aligned himself with Daenerys and expresses the need to find his sister. I do believe he’ll probably not survive season eight.
Tormund
A pick of both Kevin and mine, I’m going to let Kevin take the reigns here and post what he had to say:
“Another freaking amazing character. From being terrified of him to being terrified for him, he’s just so funny and chill in all sorts of terror. He’s 100% loyal to Jon and clearly willing to give his life for Jon. I just think he’s a super badass who goes off with those little axes in battle of the Bastards. I’m here for Tormund and his quippy remarks, and his crushing on Brienne.”
I love how Tormund went from a character who we barely knew with Ygritte, to one of the essential characters. I’m personally, a little terrified for him, considering he was on the wall as the army of Night Walkers and their undead dragon took it down.
Bronn
“Bronn of the f’ing Blackwater. My 2nd favorite character in the show. The ultimate badass. The best salesword on the planet. His loyal to nobody and that makes him such a lovable character. Unfortunately, it also makes him very expendable, which I believe will result in his death. Just think, without Bronn, Tyrion dies in Season 1, King’s Landing falls, and Jaime dies. Essentially Bronn is a Lannister savior, but he’s also smart and knows that he can’t stay and fight on Cersei’s side in season 8. We better enjoy Bronn for the time we have left with him.” – Kevin Scott
Missandei
I can speak for both Kevin and I that Missandei is probably one of the most underrated characters in the show. Originally a slave, she is freed by Daenerys. But, though her loyalty to the Mother of Dragons is strong, she is not simply defined by this trait. This is a woman who knows multiple languages, have proven herself to be tactical, and chose to stay alongside Daenerys speaks volumes. Her relationship with Grey Worm was a pivotal moment in the seventh season, receiving praise by showing the two intimate in a way that didn’t solely benefit the man. Her adoration for the Unsullied is admirable and she better not get killed off in the final season.
If your favorite underrated character didn’t appear on this list, be sure to let us know who it is and why!
A girl with too many fandoms to count.
