53. Rodrik Cassel
Ser Rodrik Cassel was a loyal servant to House Stark since back when Ned was first learning how to swing a sword. When Theon Greyjoy briefly took over Winterfell in season 2, he beheaded Ser Rodrik, although because he was a screw-up it took a lot longer than it should have.
So Ser Rodrik was involved in some memorable moments, but most of us probably remember him because he sported the most epic sideburns this side of the Wall. But what makes him important enough to be on this list?
First, with Rodrik’s death, House Stark lost someone it could depend on. Without him around, it was up to Maester Luwin and Osha to keep Bran and Rickon safe, and later Meera and Jojen Reed, with a consistent assist from Hodor. A veteran warrior like Ser Rodrik, who protected Catelyn from the mountain clans in the Vale even at his advanced age, could have made all the difference in the world during Bran’s dangerous journey north. His intimate knowledge of the North, gained over a lifetime of service to its ruling family, could have come in handy as well.
More importantly, Rodrik’s death marked the moment where Theon really started to spiral. He could have given Winterfell back to Bran after he sacked it, but executing Rodrik was something personal that couldn’t be forgiven. Rodrik taught Theon how to wield a sword, had known Theon since he was 10 years old. Executing Rodrik represented Theon severing his ties to House Stark, and he’s still paying the price. Ser Rodrik himself said it best: “Gods help you, Theon Greyjoy. Now you are truly lost.”
Before we go, one more shout out to those sideburns. They rock.
52. Jeor Mormont
Jeor Mormont was Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch at the time Jon Snow and Samwell Tarly joined the ancient order tasked with protecting the realms of men from the dangers lurking beyond the Wall. And Mormont did what all great leaders do: recognize and utilize the talents on their team. His actions were formative for both men.
Sam would remain afraid of the Jeor Mormont until the day the Old Bear died, but it was under Mormont that Sam began to find his courage and his voice. Mormont was gruff with Samwell, but never cruel, and always willing to credit Sam when due. Under Mormont’s command and with Jon’s friendship, Sam blossomed into someone willing to fight for those he loved, and for everyone living in the Seven Kingdoms. As for Jon, Jeor Mormont quickly put him on the leadership track, preparing both him and his brothers in the Night’s Watch for the idea that he could eventually lead the order.
As with any great student-teacher relationship, there comes a point when the teacher needs to step back so the student can grow. Mormont probably had more to teach Jon and Sam before his untimely death at the hands of his own mutinous men, but him being out of the picture meant Jon and Sam had to work without a net, which forced them to get better.
And for the record, Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch is the last job we’d want in Westeros. Those guys get murdered by their underlings a lot.