Game of Thrones is not just an adaptation of A Song of Ice and Fire, but a creative reimagining in which some book characters were altered, merged, or completely omitted. In addition to these changes, the show introduced several original characters who never appeared in George R.R. Martin’s novels. These additions played significant roles in the story, shaping the narrative in ways that wouldn’t have been possible without them. Let’s take a look at who these characters are and why they were added to the show.
Miranda – Ramsay Bolton’s Sadistic Lover
In the series, Miranda is a servant of House Bolton and Ramsay Bolton’s lover. She first appears in Season 3, immediately showing that she is just as cruel as Ramsay himself. Viewers are introduced to her when she and another servant lure Theon Greyjoy into one of Ramsay’s traps. Later, Miranda becomes jealous of Sansa Stark and attacks her but ultimately meets her end when Theon throws her from the Winterfell battlements.
Talisa Stark – Robb’s Tragic Love
Talisa is one of the most memorable female characters in the early seasons. She is a healer who captures Robb Stark’s heart, leading him to break his marriage pact with Walder Frey’s daughter. This fateful decision seals his doom at the Red Wedding. However, Talisa does not exist in the books. Instead, there is Jeyne Westerling, whose fate is quite different — she survives the massacre and is held captive by the Lannisters. The show’s creators gave Talisa a more romantic and tragic arc, setting her apart from her book counterpart.
Locke – The Boltons’ Ruthless Enforcer
Locke is another character linked to House Bolton who never appeared in the books. He is introduced in Season 3 as a major antagonist. He is responsible for capturing Jaime Lannister and Brienne of Tarth, and he is the one who cuts off Jaime’s hand. In the novels, there is no Locke — his role is loosely inspired by Vargo Hoat, the brutal leader of the mercenary group known as the "Bloody Mummers," who commits similar atrocities.
Olly – The Boy Who Betrayed Jon Snow
Olly is one of the show’s most controversial original characters. In Season 4, wildlings raid his village, and Ygritte kills his parents. He later takes refuge at Castle Black, where he becomes Jon Snow’s steward but harbors deep resentment toward the Free Folk. In Season 5, Olly delivers the final blow in the mutiny against Jon. His inclusion added an emotional layer to Jon’s betrayal — being stabbed by a boy he trusted made the scene even more heartbreaking.
Ros – Littlefinger’s Right-Hand Woman
One of the best additions to the show, according to many fans, was Ros, a red-haired woman from Winterfell. Initially intended to appear in just one episode, her character resonated so well that she remained for three seasons. Starting as a prostitute, she became one of Littlefinger’s closest confidantes in his brothel. However, like many in Westeros, she fell victim to political schemes and ultimately met a gruesome fate at the hands of Joffrey.
Why Did the Show Create These Characters?
The showrunners made changes to simplify George R.R. Martin’s complex world by introducing new characters who could serve the roles of multiple book characters. While this made the story more digestible and dynamic for viewers, it also sparked debates among fans of the original saga.
