Will Daenerys Turn Evil on 'Game of Thrones? Let's Dig Deep Into This Theory
There are some Game of Thrones fan theories that suggest Daenerys, regardless of whether she takes the Iron Throne or not, ultimately ends up evil. There are two main theories out there about how it all could go wrong, so let's break them down.
![Cg artwork, Digital compositing, World, Fictional character,](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bVFzg6SB9gcDWhz7YRmAqY-415-80.jpg)
Game of Thrones spoilers for season 8 thus far. What I'm about to talk about is not terribly popular, and I'm sorry in advance for everyone who's a Daenerys Targaryen fan. There are some very strong Game of Thrones fan theories that suggest Dany, regardless of whether she takes the Iron Throne or not, ultimately ends up evil in the show. This would be exceptionally tragic, given how hard Dany has worked to free herself from the history of her crazy family and the (many seasons of boring) effort to rule wisely, instead of just with fire. There are two main theories out there about how it all could go wrong, so let's break em down.
The first is that Dany will end up being the real villain of season 8—a Mad Queen of sorts. Thanks to a Reddit theory (it's always Reddit with the theories), Dany talks a big game but never actually backs it up with different actions. In part, the theory reads thus:
Our MarieClaire.com fellow, Ineye Komonibo, has already done a deep dive into why Dany isn't fit to be Queen Dany, and I agree with her, #sorrynotsorry. To echo that article—Dany's sense of entitlement coming into Winterfell is not cute, Sam Tarly makes a very excellent point to Jon/Aegon that Dany would never give up her throne for family, Dany, uh, executed the entire Tarly male line except for Sam (mad props to everyone's acting in that scene, though), and she also made kind of a veiled threat that she'd kill Sansa if she doesn't bend the knee?? What's great about the show is that actually doesn't feel out of character for Dany. She's hardworking and fair, liberating and strong, but she's also stubborn af and kind of arrogant. So if this theory is true, the showrunners and writer George R.R. Martin have already laid significant groundwork for the big twist.
In its most extreme form, this theory suggest that Dany just full-on channels her dad. Lots and lots of burning to ensue. Umm, no thank you?
A post shared by gameofthrones (@gameofthrones)
A photo posted by on
The second theory is that Dany will become the Night Queen (a legendary figure of lore—like the Night King, but female, you get it):
Okay, so this one's a bit more speculative, because this would be an enormous break from character. Like, do we really think she'd give up the throne and literally everything she's fought for? And, I get it, her dragons are her babies. But she already lost Viserion and that didn't make her lose her mind or start behaving erratically. However. The crazy in her family is strong. And she is inteeeeeeense about those creatures. So, it's not unheard of. And again, what a bummer that would be.
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
RELATED STORIES
Katherine’s a contributing syndications editor at Marie Claire who covers fashion, culture, and lifestyle. In her role, she writes stories that are syndicated by MSN and other outlets. She’s been a full-time freelancer for over a decade and has had roles with Cosmopolitan (where she covered lifestyle, culture, and fashion SEO content) and Bustle (where she was their movies and culture writer). She has bylines in New York Times, Parents, InStyle, Refinery29, and elsewhere. Her work has also been syndicated by ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, Seventeen, Good Housekeeping, and Women’s Health, among others. In addition to her stories reaching millions of readers, content she's written and edited has qualified for a Bell Ringer Award and received a Communicator Award.
Katherine has a BA in English and art history from the University of Notre Dame and an MA in art business from the Sotheby's Institute of Art (with a focus on marketing/communications). She covers a wide breadth of topics: she's written about how to find the very best petite jeans, how sustainable travel has found its footing on Instagram, and what it's like to be a professional advice-giver in the modern world. Her personal essays have run the gamut from learning to dress as a queer woman to navigating food allergies as a mom. She also has deep knowledge of SEO/EATT, affiliate revenue, commerce, and social media; she regularly edits the work of other writers. She speaks at writing-related events and podcasts about freelancing and journalism, mentors students and other new writers, and consults on coursework. Currently, Katherine lives in Boston with her husband and two kids, and you can follow her on Instagram. If you're wondering about her last name, it’s “I go to dinner,” not “Her huge ego,” but she responds to both.
-
Jenny Is Back on the Block—and Carrying a Birkin
The singer returned to New York City with a loud luxury outfit to match.
By India Roby Published
-
Serena Williams's Post-Retirement Style Pivot Is Complete
The tennis star's fashion era is taking a turn.
By Julia Gray Published
-
If You Need Karlie Kloss, She’ll Be Sorting Her $10 Vitamin Box
“It’s an investment in my self-care.”
By Samantha Holender Published
-
'SATC' Star Evan Handler Says He'll "Welcome" Kim Cattrall's Return on His TV Set
She didn't see anyone while filming her cameo.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Everyone Wants Lindsay Lohan on Season 3 of 'White Lotus,' And It Could Actually Happen (If We're Lucky)
Please??????
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
An 'American Idol' Contestant Called Out Katy Perry for "Mom-Shaming" Her
She was really upset by the comment.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Jennifer Coolidge Addressed the Fan Campaign for Pamela Anderson to Play Her Sister on 'White Lotus'
She's a big fan, too.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Sarah Hyland and Adam Devine Play 'How Well Do You Know Your Co-Star?'
The 'Modern Family' stars reunited for the 'Pitch Perfect' spinoff series.
By Brooke Knappenberger Published
-
The 78 Best Celebrity Couple Halloween Costumes of All Time
Honestly, we're impressed.
By Charlotte Chilton Published
-
Super Rare Photos of Queen Elizabeth as a Young Woman
From childhood snapshots to portraits as a young princess, beautiful and rare photos of the late Queen Elizabeth as a young woman.
By Mehera Bonner Published
-
King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla's Relationship: A Timeline
With the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Charles has ascended to the throne as king.
By The Editors Published