When dealing with such a huge ensemble like the Game of Thrones cast, there's bound to be a variety of hook ups that transpire among different characters as the seasons progress. (After all, if there's one thing this series loves more than bloodshed, it's nudity.) However, there are some romances that just aren't meant to be, no matter how much you may want to see it come to fruition. Such is the case regarding Podrick Payne and Brienne of Tarth's relationship. As much as you may love the rather comical chemistry these two characters share, I can assure you that they are never ever ever getting together.
Of course, there's always the chance that the GoT showrunners will decide to go completely off book and surprise us all, which has been known to happen from time to time. But as far as the books go, though, a hook up simply never plays out. (Sorry 'shippers, if there are any of you out there.) However, given the interactions we've already witnessed between both of them, I'm willing to bet that this could be the start of quite a beautiful (not to mention pretty hilarious) friendship that doesn't need to evolve into something more to be extraordinary. Without getting too spoilery, let's just say that Podrick and Brienne are going to run into some very tough times ahead — a guarantee during any GoT road trip these days — so they're certainly going to rely on each other, just not in any romantic sense.
But when you think about, is that really such a bad thing? Sometimes it can be just as nice to watch a genuine friendship bloom between two people, especially when dealing with dynamic characters such as this. So while I'm always sorry to break bad news to any kind of 'shipping community, on a personal note, I have to admit that I think this is really for the best. Brienne will undoubtedly grow very fond of her eager-to-please squire, whether she realizes it now or not. But as far as GoT hook ups ago (and I'm sure this season there will be a lot of them), this duo will remain strictly in the friends zone.
Granted, we know Podrick possesses certain, umm, shall we say talents, in the bedroom, given the overwhelmingly positive feedback he's received from women in the past. So, in a way, I guess you could argue that Brienne is missing out on some pretty amazing moves in the boudoir. But that doesn't make what they share any less special.
So, sorry, folks, but I'd consider this 'ship to be officially sunk.
Images: Helen Sloan/HBO; fuckyeahpodrickpayne/Tumblr
