From battling bastards to fiery coups to shocking deaths — and un-deaths! — Game of Thrones just closed the curtain on a seriously impressive season 6. And while we have to wait a year before our next return to Westeros, fans will be talking about some of these moments straight through until the next season premiere.
Join Us Weekly as we round up the biggest shockers, bloodiest deaths and most exciting twists from this year.
Jon Snow’s Resurrection
The reanimation of Lord Commander Snow might not seem like such a big deal now, but that’s only because you’ve had a few weeks to get used to it. Back at the start of the season, Jon Snow (Kit Harington) was superdead — and while we all pretty much knew he’d be back one way or another, the moment when he opened his eyes and drew breath? Chills.
A Girl Has a Name
After losing her way (and her name) for a while in Braavos, Arya Stark (Maisie Williams) reclaimed her identity in the greatest possible way: with a false face, a blade and a delicious slice of Walder pie.
Daenerys Targaryen, Khal Killer
Dany’s coup at the Dothraki camp was spectacular to behold, and not just because it involved Emilia Clarke coming out of a burning yurt with absolutely nothing on. Seeing the Mother of Dragons turn the tables on her obnoxious, sexist captors was pure satisfaction.
Buh-Bye, Bastard
After years of fervently wishing for the death of Ramsay Bolton (Iwan Rheon), this season finally brought the big moment we’ve all been waiting for. How excellent was it to see the series’ most evil character get eaten alive by his hounds? Let’s just say that if we had a tail, it would be wagging right now.
The Bombshell of Jon Snow’s Origin Story
Not only was the revelation of Jon’s parentage a huge moment for fans, it’s a game changer for the series, promising an epic showdown between the Prince That Was Promised and the zombies from beyond the wall. (Click here for our full analysis of what the reveal of his parents means for the series!)
Introducing Lyanna Mormont
We’ve got to spare an entry on this list for the coolest kid in the Seven Kingdoms. The reigning Lady of Bear Island (Bella Ramsey) is a fierce ally of the Starks, and by far the most enjoyable character to be introduced this season.
Cersei Burns It Down
Daenerys wasn’t the only queen to take what was hers with fire and blood this season. Whatever you think of Cersei Lannister (Lena Headey), her explosive revenge on the High Sparrow — closely followed by the scene in which she waterboarded her least favorite septa with a jug of wine — was unforgettable.
Hold the Door
Nope, still not over it. The death of Hodor (Kristian Nairn) was as shocking as it was devastating, with the secret behind his unique condition revealed to be inextricably tied to his heroic destiny. And whatever else happens, this season of Game of Thrones will be remembered as the one where Hodor Hodor-ed his last.
