Game of Thrones News: Famous book character joins season 8

Game of Thrones season 8 is gearing up to begin filming this month, and thanks to some new casting news, we know a famous book character will be joining the cast.

Game of Thrones fansite Watchers of the Wall picked up on the casting of an actor for season 8, and that actor will be playing a member of the Golden Company, the band of mercenaries Cersei Lannister is having Euron Greyjoy bring across the Narrow sea from Essos, in order to bolster her army’s numbers.

The character’s name is Homeless Harry Strickland, and he was once the paymaster of the Golden Company, who quickly rose to become its leader. And, the actor portraying Strickland, will be Marc Rissmann of The Last Kingdom fame.

Rissman’s own Spotlight CV gave up the information, which sadly, has already been removed. HBO doesn’t like secrets getting out like that. Thankfully, Watchers took a screenshot for posterity.

Some backstory on the Golden Company: The Golden Company is the largest group of “sellswords” or mercenaries in Essos. It was founded by a bastard branch of House Targaryen — House Blackfyre. However, after many rebellions, The Golden Company stayed in Essos and carried out contracts for various cities and the man or woman who could pay them the most gold.

Most of the members are from families who have been exiled from Westeros and are willing to do whatever it takes to their once home.

Next: The 35 Best Moments from Game of Thrones Season 7

For now, it appears as if Game of Thrones has found the leader of the Golden Company for season 8, now we just need to see who is next.