Game of Thrones features a huge, sprawling ensemble, which is a large part of why the series became such a hit with fans. The show's iconic opening credits sequence features a total of 43 different actors throughout all eight seasons, with series regular Jason Momoa receiving an "Also Starring" credit after each episode for his appearance as Khal Drogo throughout seasons 1 and 2.
However, these 44 main cast members are not the only characters to make Game of Thrones into something special. Several of the series' most iconic characters never find their actors' names listed in the incredible opening sequence. Despite their actors never receiving main cast billing, these five Game of Thrones guest stars still stand out as fan favorites and major series highlights.
5. Yara Greyjoy
Although her book counterpart, Asha, recieves far more focus, Yara Greyjoy, played by Gemma Whelan, still stands out on the show. Yara first appears in season 2, when Theon (Alfie Allen) returns to the Iron Islands and mistakes his sister for someone else, resulting in some accidental flirting. Yara appears sporadically in the following seasons, before taking center stage again in season 6, when she and Theon journey to Essos together.
Yara's bravery and loyalty, two qualities that most Westerosi nobles tend to lack, help solidify her as a great Game of Thrones character. Yara sticks her neck out for Theon multiple times, helping him reclaim his sense of self after his Reek-ification. Although Yara is somewhat of a let down in comparison to Asha, she's still a fantastic addition to Game of Thrones' ensemble, and a worthy ruler of the Iron Islands by the time of the series finale.
4. Podrick Payne
Daniel Portman's take on Podrick Payne is a far cry from his book counterpart, with the character aged up significantly from the show. In both mediums, he first appears as Tyrion's (Peter Dinklage) squire, before he eventually joins Brienne of Tarth (Gwendoline Christie) on her journey. Though seen as somewhat hapless, Pod still holds his own several times throughout the series.
Pod is often used for comic relief, such as when Brienne berates him, or when the prostitutes Tyrion hires to thank him won't accept any money due to his skills in bed. Still, Pod brings a surprising amount of heart to the show, such as when he performs his beautiful rendition of "Jenny of Oldstones" just before the Battle of Winterfell. Podrick's softness and kindness have helped him earn his reputation as a fan favorite.
3. Hodor
Hodor, played by Kristian Narin, stands out as one of the most adorable characters in all of Game of Thrones. Winterfell's gentle giant, who only ever says his name, plays a vital role in keeping Bran Stark (Isaac Hempstead-Wright) safe following his escape from the castle. Hodor eventually joins Bran and the Reed siblings, Meera (Ellie Kendrick) and Jojen (Thomas Brodie-Sangster), on their quest beyond the Wall to find the Three-Eyed Raven. (Max von Sydow).
While looking to the past with the Three Eyed Raven, Bran discovers that a young Hodor (Sam Coleman) was actually named Wylis, and could speak normally. Shortly thereafter, Hodor sacrifices himself for Bran, who is still stuck in the past, as Meera shouts at him to "hold the door," keeping an army of wights at bay. Meera's message makes its way through time, breaking young Wylis' brain and turning him into Hodor, giving one of the most beloved characters in the series a much darker backstory than anyone expected.
2. Oberyn Martell
Despite being one of the most prominent characters in season 4, Oberyn Martell, played by a pre-fame Pedro Pascal, never made it into the opening credits. Although he only lasts one season, Oberyn stands out as a major fan favorite. His swagger, charm, and Dornish mannerisms help him make the most of his limited screentime.
Oberyn's most memorable moment is his final stand against the Mountain (Hafþór JúlÃus Björnsson). Oberyn fights for Tyrion's innocence in a trial by combat, but he has some ulterior motives: The Mountain murdered Oberyn's sister Elia and her children many years ago, and he sees this fight as a chance to avenge them. However, Oberyn's quest for vengeance ultimately proves to be his undoing, as, while he attempts to goad his opponent into confessing, the Mountain overpowers him, resulting in one of the show's most brutal deaths.
1. Olenna Tyrell
Who else could have claimed this spot but the Queen of Thorns? The late, great, Dame Diana Rigg earned four Emmy nominations for Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series for her portrayal of Lady Olenna Tyrell, the matriarch of House Tyrell and Margaery's (Natalie Dormer) grandmother. Throughout her time in the series, beginning in season 3 and ending with her epic death in season 7, Olenna proved herself to be one of the strongest players of the game.
Olenna's quick wit led to some of the show's funniest moments, but the character's most memorable storyline is her involvement in the death of Joffrey Baratheon (Jack Gleason). With the help of Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen), Olenna poisons the vicious king in order to allow Margaery to marry the much less cruel Tommen (Dean-Charles Chapman) to become queen. Despite her reliance on insults, this moment showcases just how much Olenna loves her family, and the lengths she will go to keep them safe.
For more from the world of Westeros, make sure to catch House of the Dragon season 3 when it airs on HBO Max on June 21.
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