Game Of Thrones announces plans for four spin-offs to add to ‘vast universe’

HBO has announced plans for four different spin-offs of hit TV show Game Of Thrones. Author George R R Martin has signed a contract with the broadcasters and four “very talented writers” to prolong the network’s most profitable ever show. The network has not set a deadline for the projects. The announcement comes as the series is gearing up for its inevitable end, scheduled for 2018.

We’ll take as much or as little time as the writers need and, as with all our development, we will evaluate what we have when the scripts are in.

HBO spokesman

It is a smart and predictable move for HBO, but one which has had varying degrees of success for other much-loved series. While Cheers spin-off Frasier undoubtedly managed to emulate and even surpass the success of its predecessor, and Breaking Bad follow-up Better Call Saul has also been well received by fans, many have failed to stand on their own. By announcing four different Game of Thrones spin-off shows, HBO increases its probability of success, while officially turning a “vast and rich universe” into a full-blown franchise.

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