After the Thrones

After the Thrones is an exclusive HBO digital talk-show focused on providing in-depth commentary and light-hearted discussion about the extremely popular fantasy series, "Game of Thrones". Premiering in 2016, the show runs parallel to the main series, unpacking the latest episodes, exploring connections to the sprawling lore of the series, and navigating through the emotional roller coaster that has etched "Game of Thrones" deeply into the hearts of its vast global fandom.

Running for one season and ten episodes, the hosts of After the Thrones, Andy Greenwald and Chris Ryan, dissect and analyze every bit of the "Game of Thrones" episodes, while also making educated guesses and predictions about future events. The hosts dig deep into the plot twists, character evolutions, noble house histories and mystical elements that shape the fictional world of Westeros and beyond. The series represents a novel attempt to engage with viewers and keep the conversation alive, extending the "Game of Thrones" experience beyond the boundaries of the main episodes.

The unique factor about After the Thrones is that it extends the viewing experience beyond the screen and evolves into more of a community experience. It transforms from just being a platform for discussion about the show to a hub where fans can vocalize their opinions, make predictions, and involve themselves in the narrative processes. It successfully generates an environment where fan theories, speculations, and insightful debates bloom and grow.

Both Greenwald and Ryan have a deep connection with the show and a profound understanding of the show's mystical, political, and historical elements. This allows them to bring in their unique perspectives and analysis, making the show insightful and enriching for its audience. Their natural chemistry and witty banter add a refreshing blend of levity to the heavy content of "Game of Thrones".

While the focus revolves around "Game of Thrones", After the Thrones also brings in guest speakers, usually comedians or other personalities who are fans of "Game of Thrones". These guests provide their own unique takes on the episodes, characters, and events, often leading to humorous exchanges and fun-filled discussions.

Of course, it wouldn't be complete without the audience input. Viewer contributions in the form of questions, theories, and observations are a substantial part of every episode. This makes After the Thrones a two-way street, allowing the audience to engage more actively in the narrative. It invites everyone to immerse themselves into the fascinating world of Westeros even more intimately, becoming an additional platform where "Game of Thrones” enthusiasts can dwell in the thrills of the show's universe.

After the Thrones is more than just a recap or review of the latest "Game of Thrones" episodes. It significantly enhances the entertainment and informative experience, giving viewers the chance to glean an insight into each episode from different perspectives. It goes beyond serving up a play-by-play of the episodes and examines the histories and possibilities, discussing character motives, parallels with real-world history and the lore of fantasy, and the political and social undercurrents that run throughout the narrative.

Allied with HBO’s digital streaming platforms, After the Thrones embodies the shift in how television shows are now consumed and interacted with in the digital age. It is a manifestation of the new age media circuits that are fan-driven, interactive, and experience enhancing, corroborating the immersive capacities of digital viewing while also enriching the overall fandom experience.

In short, After the Thrones is a critical companion to anyone following the "Game of Thrones" series. With its blend of critical analysis, humorous commentary, engaging discussion, and audience participation, the show serves as a valuable resource for a deeper understanding and appreciation of "Game of Thrones", adding an extra layer of entertainment and immersion to HBO’s profound fantasy saga.