'Game of Thrones' season 8 to air in 'first half' of 2019

The highly anticipated “Game of Thrones” season 8 will air next year. This is something the fans have known for some time now, and they have been waiting patiently for news about the exact release date. Now, HBO’s Programming President Casey Bloys has teased that the show will premiere in the first half of 2019.

According to a report by Entertainment Weekly, Bloys has confirmed that the last season other popular fantasy TV series will air in “early 2019.” In the past, “Game of Thrones” has generally aired in the months of March or April. Season 7 was the only exception as they had to film in the winter months, which meant the show aired in July.

The wait for the last season will not be till July. From Bloys’ words it seems a March or April premiere date is more probable. There are just six more episodes left on the show, and the plot will focus on the final battles between Daenerys (Emilia Clarke), The Night King, and Cersei (Lena Headey).

While one show comes to an end, the production of another will begin next year. Bloys’ has confirmed that the Jane Goldman’s spin-off series will begin filming early next year. They are yet to select the cast and a director for the pilot episode.

Previous reports had suggested that the spin-off will begin filming in October. Bloys has heard of these reports, but said that he didn’t know from where they originated. More details about the spin-off, which is expected to be titled “The Long Night,” may be revealed in the coming months.

There are a total of four spin-off TV series that are currently being developed by HBO that are based on the fantasy world of “Game of Thrones.” Goldman’s show was the first to be picked up for a pilot episode.