There is no more wondrous time than when a dream of spring comes true. The icy grip of winter loosens while the old gods push Snow back beyond the wall and the weirwood trees sprout their crimson leaves. It’s a time for romance to blossom anew, more importantly, it marks the coming of a new season of Game of Thrones! That means 10 hours chock full scheming, backstabbing, heroism and gratuitous full-frontal nudity.
If you’re not a fan then I weep for you my dear summer child, you’re missing out of one of the most compelling, character driven series on TV. If you have been following, then you know that one of it’s strengths are the deep and layered the characters.. While they range in appearance, personality and motivation it’s pretty hard not to notice the abundance of handsome rugged men. I do not jest, If you’re into a man with some dirt on his grieves then Game of Thrones is going to be a feast for your eyes as well as imagination. Sure, the background characters are packed with more filthy, grizzled, old men than a homeless shelter on Christmas but there is no shortage of charming and available male leads.
Who you fancy says a lot about you. So let us scour the edges of Westeros and beyond to find the 7 most eligible bachelors. Pick your favourite and learn some great tips on how to make him pledge fealty to you banner.
Finally, you may not find any of these gentlemen on PlentyOfFish (wifi has been notoriously spotty ever since the Battle of the Bells) but you could find your next prince.
Khal Drogo
House: Dothraki
Who is he?
Khal Drogo is a fierce, passionate man. Simple brute at first gaze, Drogo’s fierce, passionate nature makes him as desirable a lover as a fighter. Considerate and gentle Drogo respects his Khaleesi’s (queen) strength and he values her opinion, a rarity among men in Game of Thrones I’m afraid. Besides, who wouldn’t want to be affectionately called ‘my moon and my stars’?
Are you in love yet? Well, he’s dead. The world in Game of Thrones is a cruel place for even the bravest of warriors, even Khal Drogo. His reign was cut all too short early in the first season. Let this be a lesson to love fiercely but be ready for life’s unexpected twists.
How to Tame this Stallion
Dothraki people are simple and bound by traditions. Drogo responds well to strong women but expects you to honour his ways. Fortunately Dothraki tradition includes lots of dancing and revelry. Just make sure to eat a light lunch on the day of your stallion heart ceremony, you’ll have to eat something kinda gross; you can probably guess what.
Jaime Lannister
- House: Lannister
- Sigil: Lion
- Words: Hear Me Roar
Who is he?
Gorgeous, rich, charming and close to family. What more could you want in a man than Jaime Lannister? Unfortunately no one is prouder of his finer points than Jaime himself who can be brash and self-involved. Fitting for a man whose banner bears a golden lion on it, no? Also, he’s a little too close to his family; his last lover was his sister after all. Don’t head for the doors yet, last seasons hinted that there may be redemption ahead for Jaime.
For starters having his hand surgically removed, seems to have humbled the once arrogant lion quite a bit. Also relations seem to have cooled between he and his sister, Cersei, which puts him back on the market. Famously criticized for his cold-blooded murder of the king he swore to protect, it’s been recently revealed that Jaime’s motivation for doing so was born out of compassion for others still he selflessly wears the label ‘Kingslayer’ in silence. He’s quickly becoming one of the most likable characters on the show.
How to Make Him Bend the Knee
Being a blood relative helps, but aside from that Jaime appreciates someone who is willing to look beyond his looks and his past to recognize the honest, fragile person underneath.
Tyrion Lannister
- House: Lannister
- Sigil: Lion
- Words: Hear Me Roar
Who is he?
If you’re still on the fence about Jaime but admire the Lannisters (seek help) then Tyrion is the man for you. While neither as handsome nor gifted at war as his brother Jaime, Tyrion’s charm and wit have enamoured audiences in our world, but few in his own. Born a little person, or ‘imp’ Tyrion is denigrated as little more than a creature whose relevancy comes only from the family name he bears. Tyrion has not let this get in the way of being a cunning political player and capable strategist. In his own words “ Never forget what you are. The rest of the world will not. Wear it like armor, and it can never be used to hurt you.” This extends to his romantic life. He’s managed to woo not only a beautiful courtesan but also wed the only publicly known living Stark. Despite the forces against him Tyrion always seems to come out on top. This has proven to be a good thing as his likable nature give us someone good to root for.
How to Make Him your Hand
His physical appearance does not make Tyrion reserved, he knows his place in the world and has likely sized you up the minute you met. He appreciates a quick wit and quicker banter. Leave no subject off the table and don’t hold back. If you meet a Tyrion he’ll become further intrigued the more you press his intellect.
Jon Snow
- House: Stark
- Sigil: Direwolf
- Words: Winter is coming
Who is he?
Being born a bastard child of Ned Stark* has given Jon the gallantry and training of a lord without the ego. Of course, a little humility is in order when your step-mother despises your very existence and doesn’t bother to hide it. Underneath his rugged, good looks Jon still has a child’s idealism and naivety. He is one of the few members of the Night’s Watch who truly sees the order as protectors from the terrors beyond the wall. Jon values integrity, honor and family above all else. The only downside to Jon is his unavailability. Not just emotionally; he literally vowed to stand his post at the edge of the world for the rest of his life.
How to Make Him Take the Oath
Years of being reminded he’s a bastard have left Jon unsure of himself. Your best bet is to make the first move. Let him know you’re interested and what you want but don’t over do it. He’s no push over, he’ll feel the need to assert himself now and then. Don’t worry about that oath he took, last season’s tryst with with Ygritte showed he see’s them as more of guidelines than rules.
Oberyn Martell
- House: Martell
- Sigil: A spear over a blazing sun
- Words: Unbent. Unbowed. Unbroken
Who is he?
New to this season of the TV show Oberyn hails from the southernmost of the Seven Kingdoms known as Dorne. A hot, arid climate inhabited by a olive-skinned, passionate peoples, Dorne reportedly draws inspiration from medieval Spain. Oberyn arrives at Kings Landing to conduct some business on behalf of his brother and to inquire about his sister’s murder 17 years ago, he’s sure to stir the pot of political intrigue. Oberyn is a passionate man with many loves. Not one to settle down, he shifts from paramour to paramour and has 8 daughters collectively known as the Sand Snakes. Little matters more to Oberyn than seducing women and revenge.
How to Become his Liege Lord
A charming bad boy Oberyn will let his intentions be known and make the first move. Don’t be complacent, Dornish women are known for being strong willed so he’s expecting you to be lively. A man like Oberyn views love as a challenge and the beginnings a courtship will seem more like a battle than a romance.
Samwell Tarley
House: Tarley
Sigil: Archer
Words: First in Battle
Who is he?
Samwell is a sworn brother of the nights watch like Jon Snow. Unlike Jon he is a true born royal. Seen as weak and embarrassing by his warrior father Sam was coerced into taking the black under threat of death. Like many characters in the GoT universe, Sam is more than he seems. His huskiness belies the courage in his heart and wits in his head. A loyal friend to Jon Snow, Sam has shown astuteness in leadership and planning. Protective of those he cares for, Sam is resourceful when backed into a corner. Unwilling to let Gilly suffer in silence in Craster’s Keep he was not afraid to disobey an order and do the right thing by helping her. He’s no warrior, but to date he’s the only character to slay one of the formidable and mysterious ‘White Walkers’.
How to Make him Join your Court
Sam type’s are shy, so you’ll need to approach him. A lifetime of ridicule has made Sam suspicious of even the best intentions, so be genuine and kind. Once he lets down his guard he’ll be affable and talkative. Prepare to be showered in affection and attention as Sam can be like a love-sick puppy dog.
Theon Greyjoy
House: Greyjoy
Sigil: Kraken
Words: We do not Sow
Who is he?
Born a Greyjoy and next in line to rule the Iron Islands, Theon was taken at a young age as a ward by House Stark in retaliation for his father’s rebellion. When we first met him he appears to be a likeable, if not one-dimensional, sidekick to Robb Stark. In season two when he betrays House Stark and burns Winterfell he earned instant revulsion. You hoped he met one of the brutal endings that the show loves to deal out. However, by the end of last season after watching him endure cruel and unusual torture at the hands of Ramsey Bolton how could you help but feel sympathy him. Managing to subtly go from loving, hating and pitying a character is an example of the excellent storytelling that brings you back to Game of Thrones.
Theon’s driven by a lack of self worth and identity. Spurned by his own father, he looked up to Ned Stark as a surrogate, yet never truly felt at home on the sea or the North. Never knowing who he is and constantly trying to prove something Theon is a classic man for anyone out there that likes to take on a project. He’s damaged and vulnerable but has lots to give.
How to Win him Without Paying the Iron Price
A Theon need only be welcomed into your life with warmth and compassion. Be patient as he’ll have the baggage that comes with being forced to grow up amongst enemies. If having a family is your future then rest assured Theon wants nothing more than to have a life to call his own, just be open to adoption.
