Game of Thrones season 8: Predictions for the show’s major women

Gemma Whelan. Photo: Helen Sloan/HBO

Yara Greyjoy

The last time Game of Thrones fans saw Yara Greyjoy, Euron was hauling her off to present as a gift to Cersei. While we see what Cersei does to his other “gift,” Ellaria Sand, we’ve yet to see her punish Yara in any way. Of course, her treatment of the Greyjoy captive probably won’t be as brutal as her dealings with the woman who murdered her daughter. Still, Cersei isn’t exactly known for being merciful.

Theon and the ironborn have set out on a mission to save Yara, but hopefully it won’t be too late by the time they arrive. Currently, Yara’s storyline can go two ways. The first is that she’ll be killed by Cersei or Euron, leaving Theon as Euron’s only opposition to rule the Iron Islands. The series has been setting Theon up to become a stronger character, but this scenario isn’t ideal; after all that’s happened, Theon hasn’t shown any true interest in leading the islands.

The mission could also go successfully. If Theon and his men can help Yara escape from King’s Landing, there’s a chance that she can take her rightful place as heir to the Iron Islands. She’s the most fit to lead, and with Euron out of the equation, most of the people will follow her. They clearly respect her, something that becomes evident during the Kingsmoot in season 6.

It would also be fitting to have the Iron Islands see its first female leader around the same time that Westeros itself begins having female leaders. The series has been praised for its powerful female characters, so it’s only right to end it with a few of them in power.