Be still our collective hearts. Was that Gendry in the Game of Thrones promo for next Sunday? Arya's predicament and the a few choice shots has got everyone talking about the return of her BFF — but I think it might be wishful thinking. I mean, I get it. Everyone else has returned in Season 6. Why not Gendry, Arya's friend who was captured by Melisandre and Stannis, only to be set free?
The Baratheon bastard has been rowing around since Season 3. He's got to show up some time. With all the talk that House Stark needs to rebuild this season, House Baratheon needs to resurface as well. Not only could Arya use a friend (or more than a friend) right now, but Gendry is the key to any hope of a Baratheon resurgence. All he needs is for someone to legitimize his birth, and he's practically next in line for the Iron Throne.
But... was that really him in the promo? Could our Gendry dream finally be coming true? Please, let it be so! I hate to break it to you guys, but that's almost certainly Podrick, not Gendry. I know that Joe Dempsie (who plays Gendry) and Daniel Portman (who plays Podrick Payne) look similar, but that was definitely Pod in that chokehold. Take a look.
It makes sense. He is with Brienne, charging into the Riverlands, and very vulnerable. In the books, Lady Stoneheart kills Podrick, so I'm not surprised that he has found himself in danger. So, while I understand why our hearts and eyes were searching for any sign of Gendry — I was too while Arya was stumbling around — that's almost certainly one Ser Payne instead.
That's not to say that we won't see Gendry this season. He's long overdue for a return, after all. But honestly, if Gendry were to show up anywhere it has to be in Essos, right? He's not safe in Westeros, and he has to find Arya again. I need it.
Image: HBO
