George R.R. Martin book ending: Why the finale will be bloodier than the show

The TV show's ending was a fairy tale compared to what's coming. George R.R. Martin just dropped a bombshell about his plans for the conclusion of 'A Song of Ice and Fire,' and it's looking much darker for our favorite characters.

George R.R. Martin book ending vs. HBO’s Game of Thrones

In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Martin revealed that his original vision for the series is "much bloodier" than what fans saw on screen. According to Martin, HBO showrunners David Benioff and D.B. Weiss chose a "happy ending" for several characters whose literary fates might be far more grim.

For instance, while Tyrion Lannister ended up as Hand of the King in the show, Martin doesn't see such a future for him in the books. "I don't see a happy ending for Tyrion," Martin said, noting that the character's arc has been tragic since the very beginning.

Sansa Stark’s fate and the long wait for Winter

Interestingly, the TV show might have actually saved one major character. Martin admitted he originally planned for Sansa Stark to die. However, Sophie Turner’s portrayal was so appealing that he's reconsidering letting her live in the final books.