Game of Thrones has been an iconic series since its first season was released on HBO in 2011. It quickly became a cultural phenomenon and one of the most popular television shows of all time. But not all of its episodes have been fan favorites. Ranked among the worst episodes of the show are a few that have been controversial and/or downright hated. From a rushed finale to an out-of-place detour, these episodes of Game of Thrones have been deemed by fans as the worst of the nine seasons.
When it comes to ranking the worst Game of Thrones episodes, there are a few contenders. Some of these episodes have been criticized for their pacing, characterization, or plot. Others have been met with a collective groan from fans for their seemingly unnecessary filler. And then there are some episodes that were just plain bad.
In this list, we will be discussing the worst episodes of Game of Thrones and ranking them from least bad to most terrible. Read on to find out which episodes of the show have been ranked among its worst and why they have earned this dubious honor.
Written by Sophie and last updated on Nov 20, 2024.
PS: The following content contains spoilers!
PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!
Sansa says too much. Shae asks Tyrion for a favor. Jaime finds a way to pass the time, while Arya encounters the Brotherhood Without Banners.
The episode was rated 8,04 from 10200 votes.
Tywin plans strategic unions for the Lannisters. Melisandre pays a visit to the Riverlands. Robb weighs a compromise to repair his alliance with House Frey. Roose Bolton decides what to do with Jaime Lannister. Jon, Ygritte, and the Wildlings face a daunting climb.
The episode was rated 8,08 from 9875 votes.
The Hound is judged by the gods. Jaime is judged by men. Jon proves himself. Robb is betrayed. Tyrion learns the cost of weddings.
The episode was rated 8,12 from 9989 votes.
Tyrion shoulders new responsibilities. Jon is taken to the Fist of the First Men. Daenerys meets with the slavers. Jaime strikes a deal with his captors.
The episode was rated 8,13 from 10271 votes.
Daenerys exchanges gifts with a slave lord outside of Yunkai. As Sansa frets about her prospects, Shae chafes at Tyrion’s new situation. Tywin counsels the king, and Melisandre reveals a secret to Gendry. Brienne faces a formidable foe in Harrenhal.
The episode was rated 8,15 from 9854 votes.
Jon meets the King-Beyond-the-Wall while his Night Watch Brothers flee south. In King's Landing, Tyrion wants a reward, Margaery shows her charitable nature, Cersei arranges a dinner party, and Littlefinger offers to help Sansa. Across the Narrow Sea, Daenerys starts her journey west.
The episode was rated 8,19 from 10944 votes.
King’s Landing hosts a wedding, and Tyrion and Sansa spend the night together. Daenerys meets the Titan’s Bastard. Davos demands proof from Melisandre. Sam and Gilly meet an older gentleman.
The episode was rated 8,23 from 10014 votes.
In the Game of Thrones episode "Mhysa," tensions rise as Joffrey and Tywin clash, while Bran captivates his audience with a haunting ghost story. Over in Dragonstone, unexpected mercy emerges from an unlikely source. Meanwhile, Daenerys finds herself at a crossroads, waiting to discover if she will be hailed as a conqueror or a liberator.
Fans of the show were deeply moved by the Mysha scene, even those who had read the books. The emotional impact had viewers shedding tears and left them in awe of this unique episode. And let's not forget the ending, which sent chills down the spines of viewers, leaving them with a lasting impression.
Ramsay Snow's thought-provoking question about eunuchs and phantom limbs added an extra layer of intrigue to the episode. The producers of Game of Thrones certainly know how to deliver powerful moments, and their choice to save this impactful scene for the end of the season was a masterstroke. Speaking of impactful, the final image of this episode is being hailed as one of the best in television history. It's not just the scene itself, but the entire composition that leaves viewers in awe. Truly amazing.
Overall, "Mhysa" serves as a strong finale, leaving viewers with a sense of anticipation and excitement for what's to come. It's a refreshing departure from the shock of the Red Wedding, allowing fans to end the season on a different emotional note. The Game of Thrones producers certainly know how to keep us on the edge of our seats.
The episode was rated 8,38 from 10109 votes.
Trouble is brewing among the Night's Watch at Craster's, tensions rising and betrayals lurking in the shadows. Meanwhile, Margaery takes Joffrey out of his comfort zone, challenging his power and control. Arya finds herself face-to-face with the leader of the Brotherhood, a meeting that could change the course of her journey. And Varys, always the master of manipulation, plots revenge on an old foe, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown.
But amidst the chaos, it's Theon who tugs at our heartstrings. Haunted by his past mistakes, he reflects mournfully on the choices he's made and the destruction he's caused. It's a moment that truly showcases the depths of his vulnerability and the tragedy of his character.
And finally, we have Daenerys, the Mother of Dragons, orchestrating her exit from Astapor with skill and finesse. The final scene is nothing short of awe-inspiring, solidifying her status as a true queen. As the comments suggest, it's a moment that leaves us in awe, applauding her strength and power. This episode's ending is truly a game-changer, leaving us hungry for more and eagerly anticipating what comes next for our beloved characters. Daenerys, we salute you! #Dracarys
The episode was rated 8,54 from 10736 votes.
In the Game of Thrones episode "The Rains of Castamere," tensions rise as alliances are made and tested. Robb Stark takes a bold step by presenting himself to Walder Frey, while Edmure prepares to meet his bride. Meanwhile, Jon Snow faces his harshest test yet, and Bran Stark discovers a new gift. Daario and Jorah find themselves in a heated debate on how to approach Yunkai, while House Frey and House Tully join forces.
This episode left viewers in shock and awe, with many expressing their disbelief and emotional reactions. Some fans were caught completely off guard, exclaiming, "WHAT THE FUCK DID JUST HAPPEN?" Others were captivated by Michelle Fairley's (Catelyn Stark) powerful performance, praising her portrayal of anger, sadness, and desperation.
Even upon rewatching the episode, the impact remains strong. As one viewer noted, the outcome may have been foreshadowed and developed over time, but that only enhances the overall impact. And for those brave enough to watch it a second time, they confirm that the Red Wedding remains one of the most shocking moments in TV show history. Truly, this episode left viewers wondering, "What in the name of the lord of light just happened?"
The episode was rated 8,71 from 11315 votes.
