I think most of us that have read George R.R. Martin's source novels were expecting the
Game Of Thrones season 4 finale to end on the appearance of Lady Stoneheart, aka the resurrected Caitlyn Stark. In the books, she's brought back to life by Beric Dondarrion and Thoros, but is left a terrifying shell of her former self, bent on vengeance against those that murdered her son. It seemed like the perfect cliffhanger to bring us into season 5 -- except it doesn't sound like Stoneheart will be a part of season 5..or any season after that either. Here's what actress Michelle Fairley had to say when quizzed about it by EW.
There was a lot of online conversation. I heard third-hand that you were basically told that it’s not likely to ever happen. Is that accurate?
Yeah, the character’s dead. She’s dead.
Do you have a preference at all—do you think Catelyn’s arc should end where it ended, or would you be into the resurrection idea?
You respect the writers’ decision. I knew the arc, and that was it. They can’t stick to the books 100 percent. It’s impossible—they only have 10 hours per season. They have got to keep it dramatic and exciting, and extraneous stuff along the way gets lost in order to maintain the quality of brilliant show.
If Stoneheart is not used, it represents probably the biggest deviation from the novels yet. The character hasn't really made a massive impact on the story so far, but you have to believe that Martin has some pretty big plans for her in the remaining couple of books. Are you disappointed by this news, or do you think it's best for the tv show? If you want some further discussion on this and the other biggest changes from the source material, you can read my thoughts on the matter
HERE.
About The Author:
Mark Cassidy is a writer, photographer, amateur filmmaker, and Rotten Tomatoes-approved critic from Dublin, Ireland.