Game of Thrones ( season 1 ) - Wikipedia Game of Thrones ( season 1 ) Game of Thrones ( season 1 ) Region 1 DVD artwork Starring See List of Game of Thrones cast Country of origin United States No. of episodes 10 Release Original network HBO Original release April 17 ( 2011 - 04 - 17 ) -- June 19, 2011 ( 2011 - 06 - 19 ) Season chronology Next → Season 2 List of Game of Thrones episodes The first season of the fantasy drama television series Game of Thrones premiered on HBO on April 17, 2011, at 9.00 pm in the U.S., and concluded on June 19, 2011. It consists of ten episodes, each of approximately 55 minutes. The series is based on A Game of Thrones, the first novel in the A Song of Ice and Fire series by George R.R. Martin, adapted for television by David Benioff and D.B. Weiss. HBO had ordered a television pilot in November 2008 ; filming began the following year. However, it was deemed unsatisfactory and later reshot with some roles being recast. In March 2010, HBO ordered the first season, which began filming in July 2010, primarily in Belfast, Northern Ireland, with additional filming in Malta. The story takes place in a fictional world, primarily upon a continent called Westeros, with one storyline occurring on another continent to the east known as Essos. Like the novel, the season initially focuses on the family of nobleman Eddard Stark, who is asked to become chief advisor to his king and longtime friend, Robert Baratheon. Ned must find out who killed the previous Hand of the King, Jon Arryn, while trying to protect his family from their rivals the Lannisters. He uncovers the dark secrets about the Lannisters that his predecessor died trying to expose. Meanwhile, in Essos, the exiled Viserys Targaryen, son of the former king, believes he still has the rightful claim to the throne. Game of Thrones features a large ensemble cast, including Sean Bean, Mark Addy, Peter Dinklage, Lena Headey, Nikolaj Coster - Waldau, Michelle Fairley and Iain Glen. Newer actors were cast as the younger generation of characters, such as Kit Harington, Sophie Turner and Maisie Williams. Critics praised the show 's production values and cast, with specific accolades for Dinklage 's portrayal of Tyrion Lannister. The first season won two of the thirteen Emmy Awards for which it was nominated, for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series ( Dinklage ) and Outstanding Main Title Design. It also received a nomination for Outstanding Drama Series. Bean and Emilia Clarke also received individual accolades, as did Ramin Djawadi for music. U.S. viewership rose by approximately 33 % over the course of the season, from 2.2 million to over 3 million by the finale. Contents 1 Plot 2 Episodes 3 Cast 3.1 Main cast 3.1. 1 Starring 3.1. 2 Also starring 3.2 Guest cast 3.2. 1 At and beyond the Wall 3.2. 2 In King 's Landing 3.2. 3 In the North 3.2. 4 In the Riverlands 3.2. 5 In the Vale 3.2. 6 In Essos 4 Production 4.1 Casting 4.2 Filming 4.3 Music 5 Reception 5.1 Critical response 5.2 Ratings 5.3 Accolades 6 Release 6.1 Broadcast 6.2 Home media 7 References 8 External links Plot See also : Synopsis of A Song of Ice and Fire The series begins as Ned Stark is asked to become the chief advisor ( known as the Hand of the King ) to lecherous King Robert Baratheon. Ned and his wife Catelyn receive a letter from Catelyn 's sister Lysa that gives them reason to believe that rival House Lannister -- to which the King 's wife Cersei belongs -- was the cause of the previous Hand 's death. Ned must travel south to help the king and find out who killed the previous Hand of the King, Jon Arryn, while trying to protect his family from the Lannisters. As he tries to uncover the reasons behind Jon Arryn 's death he uncovers the dark secrets about the Lannisters that Arryn himself died trying to expose. Meanwhile, across the Narrow Sea in the continent of Essos, the exiled, arrogant Viserys Targaryen, son of the former king whose throne was usurped, believes he still has the rightful claim to the throne. He marries off his younger sister, Daenerys Targaryen, whom he has psychologically and physically abused for years, to the leader of the Dothraki warrior tribe, Khal Drogo, in an exchange for an army to return to Westeros and take the throne. However, Daenerys ' growing love for Drogo and newfound mental strength as the Khaleesi of the tribe mean Viserys ' plans go unexpectedly and powerfully awry. At the Wall, Ned 's bastard son Jon Snow joins the Night 's Watch, an ancient brotherhood sworn to watch over the massive wall that separates the Seven Kingdoms from the dangerous unknown beyond. But an ancient force, long believed dead, threatens the land. Episodes See also : List of Game of Thrones episodes No. overall No. in season Title Directed by Written by Original air date U.S. viewers ( millions ) `` Winter Is Coming '' Tim Van Patten David Benioff & D.B. Weiss April 17, 2011 ( 2011 - 04 - 17 ) 2.22 In the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros, a soldier of the ancient Night 's Watch order survives an attack by supernatural creatures known as the White Walkers, thought until now to be myth. He rushes to Castle Winterfell, which is ruled by Eddard `` Ned '' Stark, Warden of the North, who decapitates the soldier for deserting his post. In King 's Landing, the capital, Jon Arryn, the `` Hand of the King '', dies under mysterious circumstances. King Robert Baratheon, Ned 's longtime friend, travels to Winterfell, offering the position to him and also proposing marriage between his firstborn son Joffrey and Ned 's older daughter Sansa. Ned 's wife Catelyn receives a letter from her sister Lysa, Jon Arryn 's widow, saying that she has escaped King 's Landing and that Jon was murdered by the Lannisters, Queen Cersei 's family. Catelyn burns the letter and tells Ned about it, believing that the Lannisters are plotting against Robert. Ned 's 10 - year - old son, Brandon, climbs a tower, where he witnesses Cersei having sex with her twin brother, Jaime, who then pushes him out the window from a presumably fatal height. Meanwhile across the narrow sea in Essos, the exiled Prince Viserys Targaryen makes a deal with the Dothraki warlord Khal Drogo, who marries Viserys ' younger sister, Daenerys, in exchange for an army to conquer Westeros and reclaim the Iron Throne. `` The Kingsroad '' Tim Van Patten David Benioff & D.B. Weiss April 24, 2011 ( 2011 - 04 - 24 ) 2.20 Having accepted his new role as the Hand of the King, Ned leaves Winterfell with his daughters Sansa and Arya, while Catelyn stays behind to tend to Bran. The unconscious Bran is attacked by an assassin, but his direwolf saves him. Catelyn decides to go to King 's Landing to tell Ned about the attempt and suspected Lannister involvement. Jon Snow, Ned 's illegitimate son, heads north to join the brotherhood of the Night 's Watch, protectors of the Wall that keeps the White Walkers and the wildlings from entering civilized Westeros. Tyrion, Cersei 's brother, decides to forgo the trip south with his family and instead accompanies Snow 's entourage to the Wall. When Joffrey threatens Arya and her friend, Arya 's direwolf defends her and escapes, provoking a conflict between the Starks and the Lannisters. To resolve the insult, Robert orders Ned to execute Sansa 's direwolf. In Winterfell, Brandon awakens from unconsciousness. Meanwhile, Daenerys focuses her attention on learning how to please Drogo. `` Lord Snow '' Brian Kirk David Benioff & D.B. Weiss May 1, 2011 ( 2011 - 05 - 01 ) 2.44 Ned joins the King 's Small Council at King 's Landing, capital of the Seven Kingdoms, and learns just how poorly Westeros is being managed. Catelyn tries to covertly warn her husband, but is intercepted by an old friend, Councillor Petyr `` Littlefinger '' Baelish. Bran learns he will never walk again. He does not remember the events leading to his fall. Jon struggles to adapt to life on the Wall, as he trains with a number of low - born recruits who are not impressed by his bloodline. Lord Commander Mormont asks Tyrion to plead with the King to send more men to the Night 's Watch. Daenerys learns that she is pregnant, and begins to stand up to Viserys. `` Cripples, Bastards, and Broken Things '' Brian Kirk Bryan Cogman May 8, 2011 ( 2011 - 05 - 08 ) 2.45 Tyrion shares saddle modifications for Bran that will allow the paraplegic boy to ride before heading south. Ned searches for clues to the unexplained death of his mentor and predecessor Jon Arryn and in the process uncovers King Robert 's illegitimate son. Robert and his guests witness a tournament honoring Ned. Jon takes measures to protect Samwell Tarly, an awkward and friendless boy, from the abuse of the Night 's Watchmen. A frustrated Viserys clashes with his newly empowered sister. Sansa dreams of life as a queen, while Arya envisions a far different future. At a chance encounter in a roadside tavern, Catelyn rallies her father 's allies and has Tyrion arrested for conspiring to murder her son. 5 5 `` The Wolf and the Lion '' Brian Kirk David Benioff & D.B. Weiss May 15, 2011 ( 2011 - 05 - 15 ) 2.58 Ned refuses to participate in Robert 's plan to assassinate the pregnant Daenerys Targaryen, and resigns as Robert 's Hand, angering him. Catelyn and Tyrion ( who she has taken as her prisoner ) arrive at her sister Lysa 's home in the Eyrie. News of Tyrion 's capture reaches King 's Landing where Jaime Lannister, the Queen 's twin brother, demands answers from Ned. A vengeful Jaime fights Ned until his man stabs Ned in the leg from behind, leaving him wounded as his forces leave the capital. 6 6 `` A Golden Crown '' Daniel Minahan Story by : David Benioff & D.B. Weiss Teleplay by : Jane Espenson and David Benioff & D.B. Weiss May 22, 2011 ( 2011 - 05 - 22 ) 2.44 Robert reappoints Ned as Hand and tasks him with running affairs until he returns from hunting. Villagers from Riverrun arrive in the throne room with news of atrocities committed by raiders, who Ned deduces were led by Gregor Clegane, a Lannister retainer. Ned sentences Gregor to death and sends a message to Tywin Lannister, summoning him to a trial. Ned decides to send Sansa, ( now reconciled with Joffrey ), and Arya back to Winterfell. Ned finds out that Joffrey is not Robert 's biological son. While out testing his new saddle, Bran is attacked by outlaws. Robb, Ned 's oldest son, and Theon, the fostered son of a fallen rebel king, save him. In the Vale, Tyrion demands a trial by combat, which Lysa accepts. She chooses Ser Vardis and Tyrion asks for a champion. The mercenary Bronn volunteers, killing Vardis and thereby obtaining Tyrion 's release. Meanwhile, Viserys becomes enraged with Drogo for not honoring his promise and attempts to kill Daenerys ' unborn child. Drogo kills Viserys by pouring molten gold on his head. 7 7 `` You Win or You Die '' Daniel Minahan David Benioff & D.B. Weiss May 29, 2011 ( 2011 - 05 - 29 ) 2.40 In King 's Landing, Ned tells Cersei he knows she is involved with Jaime and none of her children are Robert 's. They soon learn that Robert has been critically wounded by a boar while hunting. A dying Robert names Ned as the `` Protector of the realm '' to rule until Joffrey reaches the legal age. Ned sends a message to Stannis, Robert 's brother, intending to enthrone him since Robert has no true heirs. Ned tells Petyr Baelish about his plan and asks him to gain the loyalty of the City Watch, the only force capable of overpowering Lannister forces loyal to Cersei. After Robert 's death, Ned, Baelish and the City Watch confront Cersei and Joffrey in the throne room, where Baelish and the City Watch betray Ned and attack his men. At the Wall, Ned 's younger brother Benjen goes missing during a foray beyond the Wall. Snow and Tarly are picked as stewards, with Jon assigned to Lord Commander Mormont. The duo swear their loyalties to the Night 's Watch. In Essos, Robert 's assassin is captured before he can poison Daenerys. Drogo vows to conquer the Seven Kingdoms and give it to his son. He starts marching towards Westeros. 8 8 `` The Pointy End '' Daniel Minahan George R.R. Martin June 5, 2011 ( 2011 - 06 - 05 ) 2.72 Arya manages to escape the Red Keep after her Braavosian sword master delays the guards sent to arrest her ; Sansa is captured however. Robb hears the news and prepares the Northern armies to fight the Lannisters, leaving Bran behind to rule Winterfell. Lysa refuses to fight the Lannisters ; and Catelyn leaves, joining Robb 's camp. Tyrion and Bronn are surrounded by Shagga and his men. Tyrion convinces them to escort him to Tywin to repay them. They arrive at Tywin 's camp, where the latter asks Shagga to help them in their confrontation with the Starks in exchange for payment. Joffrey appoints Tywin as the Hand. Sansa begs the former to show mercy upon Ned. Joffrey agrees if the latter recognizes his reign. At the Wall, some bodies affected by the White Walkers are found. In Essos, Drogo 's soldiers begin attacking nearby settlements, enslaving locals in order to sell them and gain the money to buy the ships necessary to pass the Narrow Sea. 9 9 `` Baelor '' Alan Taylor David Benioff & D.B. Weiss June 12, 2011 ( 2011 - 06 - 12 ) 2.66 The Stark army arrives at the Twins castle ; and Catelyn convinces Lord Frey to let them pass and assist them by agreeing for marriage of Robb and Arya to Frey 's children in the future. Robb sacrifices 2000 soldiers in a confrontation with the Lannister army to capture Jaime. In a public hearing, Ned confesses to treason and publicly affirms Joffrey as rightful heir. However, rather than sentencing him to the Wall as had been negotiated, a vengeful Joffrey has him decapitated, while Cersei and other counselors object futilely. Sansa and Arya watch their father die : Sansa from the royal party and Arya from the crowd. At the Wall, Jeor Mormont gives his family sword to Jon in gratitude ; Maester Aemon also reveals to Jon that Aemon is a Targaryen. In Essos, Drogo 's wound becomes septic and his death imminent. Daenerys convinces a slave woman to use blood magic to save him. The woman tells everyone to leave the tent and stay outside until the spell is over. Daenerys begins labor, and Jorah brings her into the forbidden tent seeking aid. 10 10 `` Fire and Blood '' Alan Taylor David Benioff & D.B. Weiss June 19, 2011 ( 2011 - 06 - 19 ) 3.04 The North secedes from the Seven Kingdoms and proclaims Robb as their king. With Jaime captured by the Starks and Robert 's brothers challenging Joffrey 's claim to the throne, Tywin appoints Tyrion as King 's Hand. Jon plans to desert his post at the Wall to avenge Ned, but his friends convince him to stay and he instead joins a Night 's Watch expedition to find Benjen beyond the Wall. Yoren, a Night 's Watch recruiter, helps Arya escape King 's Landing disguised as a boy while Joffrey plans to make Sansa his queen despite her father 's execution. Daenerys learns that her unborn son is dead and Drogo has been left in a vegetative state due to the witch 's treacherous magic. Daenerys ends Drogo 's life and lights a funeral pyre. She burns the witch alive alongside Drogo 's body and her three dragon eggs, and walks into the flames herself. When the embers die the following morning, Daenerys rises, unharmed, flanked by three newborn dragons. Jorah and other witnesses kneel before her. Cast See also : List of Game of Thrones characters Sean Bean ( Eddard Stark ) Mark Addy ( Robert Baratheon ) Nikolaj Coster - Waldau ( Jaime Lannister ) Michelle Fairley ( Catelyn Stark ) Lena Headey ( Cersei Lannister ) Emilia Clarke ( Daenerys Targaryen ) Iain Glen ( Jorah Mormont ) Aidan Gillen ( Petyr Baelish ) Peter Dinklage ( Tyrion Lannister ) Main cast Starring Sean Bean as Eddard `` Ned '' Stark Mark Addy as Robert Baratheon Nikolaj Coster - Waldau as Jaime Lannister Michelle Fairley as Catelyn Stark Lena Headey as Cersei Lannister Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen Iain Glen as Jorah Mormont Aidan Gillen as Petyr `` Littlefinger '' Baelish Harry Lloyd as Viserys Targaryen Kit Harington as Jon Snow Sophie Turner as Sansa Stark Maisie Williams as Arya Stark Richard Madden as Robb Stark Alfie Allen as Theon Greyjoy Isaac Hempstead Wright as Bran Stark Jack Gleeson as Joffrey Baratheon Rory McCann as Sandor `` The Hound '' Clegane Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister Also starring Jason Momoa as Khal Drogo Guest cast The recurring actors listed here are those who appeared in season 1. They are listed by the region in which they first appear : At and beyond the Wall James Cosmo as Jeor Mormont Peter Vaughan as Maester Aemon Brian Fortune as Othell Yarwyck Joseph Mawle as Benjen Stark Owen Teale as Alliser Thorne Francis Magee as Yoren John Bradley as Samwell Tarly Josef Altin as Pyp Mark Stanley as Grenn Luke McEwan as Rast Rob Ostlere as Waymar Royce Bronson Webb as Will Dermot Keaney as Gared In King 's Landing Callum Wharry as Tommen Baratheon Aimee Richardson as Myrcella Baratheon Gethin Anthony as Renly Baratheon Julian Glover as Grand Maester Pycelle Conleth Hill as Varys Ian McElhinney as Barristan Selmy Ian Beattie as Meryn Trant David Michael Scott as Beric Dondarrion Finn Jones as Loras Tyrell Eugene Simon as Lancel Lannister Wilko Johnson as Ilyn Payne Conan Stevens as Gregor Clegane Dominic Carter as Janos Slynt Jefferson Hall as Hugh of the Vale Miltos Yerolemou as Syrio Forel Andrew Wilde as Tobho Mott Joe Dempsie as Gendry Eros Vlahos as Lommy Greenhands Ben Hawkey as Hot Pie In the North Art Parkinson as Rickon Stark Clive Mantle as Greatjon Umber Steven Blount as Rickard Karstark Donald Sumpter as Maester Luwin Ron Donachie as Rodrik Cassel Jamie Sives as Jory Cassel Susan Brown as Septa Mordane Margaret John as Old Nan Kristian Nairn as Hodor Esmé Bianco as Ros Natalia Tena as Osha In the Riverlands Charles Dance as Tywin Lannister David Bradley as Walder Frey Ian Gelder as Kevan Lannister Jerome Flynn as Bronn Emun Elliott as Marillion Sibel Kekilli as Shae Rhodri Hosking as Mycah In the Vale Lino Facioli as Robin Arryn Kate Dickie as Lysa Arryn Mark Lewis Jones as Shagga In Essos Roger Allam as Illyrio Mopatis Dar Salim as Qotho Elyes Gabel as Rakharo Amrita Acharia as Irri Roxanne McKee as Doreah Mia Soteriou as Mirri Maz Duur Production HBO originally optioned the rights to A Song of Ice and Fire in 2007, at which time David Benioff and D.B. Weiss were identified as the project 's writers and executive producers. The first and second drafts of the pilot script, written by Benioff and Weiss, were submitted in August 2007, and June 2008, respectively. While HBO found both drafts to their liking, a pilot was not ordered until November 2008, with the 2007 -- 2008 Writers Guild of America strike possibly delaying the process. Benioff and Weiss served as main writers and showrunners for the first season. They contributed eight out of ten episodes, including one co-written with Jane Espenson. The two remaining episodes were written by Bryan Cogman and A Song of Ice and Fire author George R.R. Martin. Tom McCarthy directed the original pilot, but much of this was later re-shot by Tim Van Patten as the pilot was reworked into the first episode of the complete season. Van Patten also directed the second episode. McCarthy is still credited as a consulting producer for the series ' first episode. Brian Kirk and Daniel Minahan directed three episodes each, and Alan Taylor directed the final two. Before Game of Thrones both Benioff and Weiss worked in film, and were unfamiliar with working on a television show. This resulted in several first - season episodes being about 10 minutes too short for HBO, forcing them to write another 100 pages of scripts in two weeks. Due to lack of budget the new scenes were designed to be inexpensive to film, such as two actors conversing in one room. Benioff and Weiss noted that some of their favorite scenes from the first season were the results of the dilemma, including one between Robert and Cersei Baratheon discussing their marriage. Casting On May 5, 2009, it was announced that Peter Dinklage had been signed on to star as Tyrion Lannister in the pilot, and that Tom McCarthy was set to direct. On July 19, 2009, a number of further casting decisions were announced, including Sean Bean being given the role of Ned Stark. Other actors signed on for the pilot were Kit Harington in the role of Jon Snow, Jack Gleeson as Joffrey Baratheon, Harry Lloyd as Viserys Targaryen, and Mark Addy as Robert Baratheon. At the beginning of August 2009, it was revealed that Catelyn Stark would be portrayed by Jennifer Ehle. On August 20, more casting announcements were made, including Nikolaj Coster - Waldau as Jaime Lannister and Tamzin Merchant as Daenerys Targaryen, as well as Richard Madden in the role of Robb Stark, Iain Glen as Ser Jorah Mormont, Alfie Allen as Theon Greyjoy, Sophie Turner as Sansa Stark and Maisie Williams as Arya Stark. On September 1 Lena Headey was announced as Cersei Lannister. On September 23, Martin confirmed that Rory McCann had been cast as Sandor Clegane. Isaac Hempstead - Wright was confirmed as Bran Stark on October 14, followed by an announcement of Jason Momoa as Khal Drogo three days later. After the pilot was shot and the series picked up, it was announced that the role of Catelyn had been recast, with Michelle Fairley replacing Ehle. Later, it was also confirmed that Emilia Clarke would replace Tamzin Merchant as Daenerys. The rest of the cast was filled out in the second half of the year, and included Charles Dance as Tywin Lannister, Aidan Gillen as Petyr ' Littlefinger ' Baelish, and Conleth Hill as Varys. Filming Doune Castle was used as the set for Winterfell in the pilot. The pilot episode was initially filmed on location in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Morocco by Tom McCarthy between October 24 and November 19, 2009. However, the pilot was deemed unsatisfactory and much of it had to be reshot together with the other episodes of the season in Northern Ireland and Malta. Most scenes were shot in Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland border counties. Principal photography was scheduled to begin on July 26, 2010, with the primary studio location being the Paint Hall Studio in the Titanic Quarter of Belfast, Northern Ireland. Among various locations for the initial shooting of the pilot in 2009, Doune Castle in central Scotland was used as the location for Winterfell, including scenes at its great hall ( the great hall was later recreated in a soundstage in Northern Ireland ). Additional filming locations included Cairncastle at Larne, Shane 's Castle, and Tollymore Forest Park, all in Northern Ireland. In the 2010 shooting of the series, Castle Ward was used as Winterfell instead of Doune Castle, with Cairncastle for some exterior Winterfell scenes. The set for Castle Black was built at Magheramorne quarry. The show 's presence in Northern Ireland and use of Paint Hall created hundreds of jobs for residents, and made the area `` a hub for film and television production ''. The `` King 's Landing '' exterior scenes were shot at various locations in Malta, including the city of Mdina and the island of Gozo. The filming in Malta resulted in controversy when a protected ecosystem was damaged by a subcontractor. Music Main article : Game of Thrones : Season 1 ( soundtrack ) The soundtrack to Game of Thrones was originally to be composed by Stephen Warbeck. On February 2, 2011, only ten weeks prior to the show 's premiere, it was reported that Warbeck had left the project and Ramin Djawadi had been commissioned to write the music instead. The music supervisor of Game of Thrones Evyen Klean first suggested Djawadi to Benioff and Weiss as the replacement for Warbeck, and although Djawadi was reluctant as he had other commitments at that time, they managed to persuade Djawadi to accept the project. To give the series its own distinctive musical identity, according to Djawadi, the producers asked him not to use musical elements such as flutes or solo vocals that had already been successfully used by other major fantasy productions. He mentioned that a challenge in scoring the series was its reliance on dialogue and its sprawling cast : on several occasions already - scored music had to be omitted so as not to get in the way of dialogue. Djawadi said that he was inspired to write the main title music by an early version of the series 's computer - animated title sequence. The title music is reprised as a global theme in the rest of the soundtrack, initially infrequently and as part of the theme of individual characters, then in full towards the end of season 1 during particularly important scenes. Reception Critical response Anticipation for the series was described by various media outlets as very high, with a dedicated fan base closely following the show 's development. By April 2011, multiple entertainment news outlets had put it at the top of their lists of television events to look forward to in 2011. The majority of reviews for the first season were very positive, with critics noting the high production values, the well - realized world, compelling characters, and giving particular note to the strength of the child actors. Tim Goodman 's review for The Hollywood Reporter stated, `` a few minutes into HBO 's epic Game of Thrones series, it 's clear that the hype was right and the wait was worth it ''. Mary McNamara from the Los Angeles Times called it ``... a great and thundering series of political and psychological intrigue bristling with vivid characters, cross-hatched with tantalizing plotlines and seasoned with a splash of fantasy ''. New York Post 's Linda Stasi gave Thrones 3.5 / 4 stars stating, `` The art direction, acting and incredible sets are as breathtaking as the massive scope of the series ''. Many critics praised Peter Dinklage for his portrayal of Tyrion Lannister, with Ken Tucker from Entertainment Weekly stating, ``... if Dinklage does n't get an Emmy for his clever, rude Tyrion Lannister, I 'll be gobsmacked '' and Mary McNamara from the Los Angeles Times stating, `` If the man does n't win an Emmy, heads should certainly roll ''. The first season of Game of Thrones has a Metacritic average of 80 out of 100 based on 28 critic reviews, categorized as `` generally favorable ''. On Rotten Tomatoes, the first season has an 89 % approval rating from 33 critics with an average rating of 8.3 out of 10. The season also received a 97 % episode average score on Rotten Tomatoes, which is tied with Season 4 for the highest season episode average of the show. Game of Thrones ( season 1 ) : Critical reception by episode Season 1 ( 2011 ) : Percentage of positive reviews tracked by the website Rotten Tomatoes Ratings The first episode attracted 2.2 million viewers its initial airing on April 17 in the U.S., and totaled 5.4 million viewers across multiple Sunday and Monday night airings. It averaged 743,000 and reached a peak 823,000 in UK and Ireland on its April 18 premiere. HBO announced that they would be commissioning a second season on the strength of the reception of the premiere episode. By the final episode of the season, which aired June 20, the ratings had climbed to over 3 million. Game of Thrones : U.S. viewers per episode ( millions ) Season Ep. 1 Ep. 2 Ep. 3 Ep. 4 Ep. 5 Ep. 6 Ep. 7 Ep. 8 Ep. 9 Ep. 10 Average 2.22 2.20 2.44 2.45 2.58 2.44 2.40 2.72 2.66 3.04 2.52 3.86 3.76 3.77 3.65 3.90 3.88 3.69 3.86 3.38 4.20 3.80 4.37 4.27 4.72 4.87 5.35 5.50 4.84 5.13 5.22 5.39 4.97 6.64 6.31 6.59 6.95 7.16 6.40 7.20 7.17 6.95 7.09 6.84 5 8.00 6.81 6.71 6.82 6.56 6.24 5.40 7.01 7.14 8.11 6.88 6 7.94 7.29 7.28 7.82 7.89 6.71 7.80 7.60 7.66 8.89 7.69 7 10.11 9.27 9.25 10.17 10.72 10.24 12.07 N / A 10.26 Source : Nielsen Media Research Accolades See also : List of awards and nominations received by Game of Thrones The first season of Game of Thrones was nominated for thirteen Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series ( Tim Van Patten for `` Winter Is Coming '' ), and Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series ( David Benioff and D.B. Weiss for `` Baelor '' ). It won two, Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series ( Peter Dinklage ) and Outstanding Main Title Design. Dinklage, who plays Tyrion, was also named best supporting actor by the Golden Globes, the Scream Awards and the Satellite Awards. Year Award Category Nominee ( s ) Result Ref. 2011 AFI Awards AFI TV Award Game of Thrones Won Artios Awards Outstanding Achievement in Casting -- Television Pilot Drama Nina Gold Nominated Outstanding Achievement in Casting -- Television Series Drama Nominated Portal Award Best Actor Sean Bean Won Best Actress Lena Headey Nominated Best Supporting Actor Peter Dinklage Nominated Best Episode Winter Is Coming Won Best Series Game of Thrones Won Best Young Actor Isaac Hempstead - Wright Nominated Maisie Williams Nominated EWwy Award Best Supporting Actress, Drama Emilia Clarke Won Best Actor, Drama Sean Bean Nominated 63rd Primetime Emmy Awards Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series Tim Van Patten for `` Winter Is Coming '' Nominated Outstanding Drama Series Vince Gerardis, Frank Doelger, Ralph Vicinanza, Mark Huffam, David Benioff, Carolyn Strauss, George R.R. Martin, Guymon Casady and D.B. Weiss Nominated Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series Peter Dinklage Won Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series David Benioff and D.B. Weiss for `` Baelor '' Nominated 63rd Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards Outstanding Casting for a Drama Series Nina Gold and Robert Sterne Nominated Outstanding Costumes for a Series Michele Clapton and Rachael Webb - Crozier for `` The Pointy End '' Nominated Outstanding Hairstyling for a Single - Camera Series Kevin Alexander and Candice Banks for `` A Golden Crown '' Nominated Outstanding Main Title Design Angus Wall, Hameed Shaukat, Kirk Shintani and Robert Feng Won Outstanding Makeup for a Single - Camera Series ( Non-Prosthetic ) Paul Engelen and Melissa Lackersteen for `` Winter Is Coming '' Nominated Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup for a Series, Miniseries, Movie or a Special Paul Engelen and Conor O'Sullivan for `` A Golden Crown '' Nominated Outstanding Sound Editing for a Series Robin Quinn, Steve Fanagan, Eoghan McDonnell, Jon Stevenson, Tim Hands, Stefan Henrix, Caoimhe Doyle, Michelle McCormack and Andy Kennedy for `` A Golden Crown '' Nominated Outstanding Special Visual Effects Rafael Morant, Adam McInnes, Graham Hills, Lucy Ainsworth - Taylor, Stuart Brisdon, Damien Macé, Henry Badgett and Angela Barson for `` Fire and Blood '' Nominated Outstanding Stunt Coordination Paul Jennings for `` The Wolf and the Lion '' Nominated Women 's Image Network Awards Actress Drama Series Lena Headey Nominated International Film Music Critics Association Best Original Score for a Television Series Ramin Djawadi Nominated 1st Critics ' Choice Television Awards Best Drama Series Game of Thrones Nominated 69th Golden Globe Awards Best Supporting Actor -- Series, Miniseries or Television Film Peter Dinklage Won Best Television Series -- Drama Game of Thrones Nominated Peabody Award Game of Thrones Won 16th Satellite Awards Best Supporting Actor -- Series, Miniseries or Television Film Peter Dinklage Won Best Television Series -- Genre Game of Thrones Nominated Scream Awards Best Ensemble Game of Thrones Nominated Best Fantasy Actor Sean Bean Nominated Best Fantasy Actress Lena Headey Nominated Best Supporting Actor Peter Dinklage Won Best TV Show Game of Thrones Won Breakout Performance -- Female Emilia Clarke Won Most Memorable Mutilation `` Head covered in molten gold '' from `` A Golden Crown '' Nominated The Ultimate Scream Game of Thrones Nominated 27th TCA Awards Individual Achievement in Drama Peter Dinklage Nominated Outstanding Achievement in Drama Game of Thrones Nominated Outstanding New Program Game of Thrones Won Program of the Year Game of Thrones Nominated Gold Derby TV Awards 2011 Best Drama Series Game of Thrones Nominated Best Drama Supporting Actor Peter Dinklage Nominated IGN Awards Best TV Hero Sean Bean as Ned Stark Won Best TV Twist Off with his head ! Won Best TV Episode Baelor Won Best TV Series Game of Thrones Nominated Best TV Drama Series Game of Thrones Nominated Best TV Actor Peter Dinklage Nominated Best TV Actress Emilia Clarke Nominated Best TV Hero Kit Harington as Jon Snow Nominated Best TV Villain Jack Gleeson as Joffrey Baratheon Nominated IGN People 's Choice Award Best TV Series Game of Thrones Won Best TV Drama Series Game of Thrones Won Best TV Hero Sean Bean as Ned Stark Won Best TV Twist Off with his head ! Won Best TV Episode Baelor Nominated Best TV Hero Kit Harington as Jon Snow Nominated Best TV Actor Peter Dinklage Nominated Best TV Actress Emilia Clarke Nominated Best TV Villain Jack Gleeson as Joffrey Baratheon Nominated Writers Guild of America Awards New Series David Benioff, Bryan Cogman, Jane Espenson, George R.R. Martin, D.B. Weiss Nominated Television Drama Series David Benioff, Bryan Cogman, Jane Espenson, George R.R. Martin, D.B. Weiss Nominated 2012 People 's Choice Awards Favorite Cable TV Drama Game of Thrones Nominated ADG Excellence in Production Design Award One - Hour Single Camera Television Series Gemma Jackson for `` A Golden Crown '' Nominated Gracie Allen Awards Outstanding Female Rising Star in a Drama Series or Special Emilia Clarke Won SFX Awards Best New TV Show David Benioff and D.B. Weiss Won Best TV Show David Benioff and D.B. Weiss Nominated Best Actress Maisie Williams Nominated Best Actor Peter Dinklage Nominated NewNowNext Awards TV You Betta Watch Game of Thrones Nominated Golden Reel Awards Best Sound Editing -- Short Form Dialogue and ADR in Television Game of Thrones for `` Cripples, Bastards, and Broken Things '' Won Best Sound Editing -- Short Form Sound Effects and Foley in Television Game of Thrones for `` Winter Is Coming '' Won Costume Designers Guild Awards Outstanding Period / Fantasy Television Series Game of Thrones Nominated 64th Directors Guild of America Awards Dramatic Series Tim Van Patten for `` Winter Is Coming '' Nominated American Cinema Editors Best Edited One - Hour Series For Non-Commercial Television Frances Parker for `` Baelor '' Nominated 9th Irish Film & Television Awards Best Television Drama Mark Huffam Nominated Best Director Television Drama Brian Kirk Nominated Best Actress -- Television Michelle Fairley Nominated Best Supporting Actor -- Television Aidan Gillen Nominated Best Sound ( Film / TV Drama ) Ronan Hill Nominated Best Sound Ronan Hill Nominated Astra Awards Favourite Program -- International Drama Game of Thrones Won Hugo Awards Best Dramatic Presentation, Long Form David Benioff, D.B. Weiss, Bryan Cogman, Jane Espenson, George R.R. Martin, Tim Van Patten, Brian Kirk, Daniel Minahan and Alan Taylor for Game of Thrones -- Season 1 Won Kerrang ! Awards Best TV Show Game of Thrones Won Producers Guild Awards `` The Norman Felton Award for Outstanding Producer of Episodic Television, Drama '' David Benioff, Frank Doelger, Mark Huffam, Carolyn Strauss, D.B. Weiss Nominated Saturn Award Best Television Presentation Game of Thrones Nominated Best Actor on Television Sean Bean Nominated Best Actress on Television Lena Headey Nominated Best Supporting Actor on Television Kit Harington Nominated 18th Screen Actors Guild Awards Outstanding Performance by An Ensemble in a Drama Series Amrita Acharia, Mark Addy, Alfie Allen, Josef Altin, Sean Bean, Susan Brown, Emilia Clarke, Nikolaj Coster - Waldau, Peter Dinklage, Ron Donachie, Michelle Fairley, Jerome Flynn, Elyes Gabel, Aidan Gillen, Jack Gleeson, Iain Glen, Julian Glover, Kit Harington, Lena Headey, Isaac Hempstead Wright, Conleth Hill, Richard Madden, Jason Momoa, Rory McCann, Ian McElhinney, Luke McEwan, Roxanne McKee, Dar Salim, Mark Stanley, Donald Sumpter, Sophie Turner and Maisie Williams Nominated Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Television Series Game of Thrones Won IGN People 's Choice Award Best TV DVD or Blu - ray For the complete first season on Blu - ray Won Visual Effects Society Outstanding Animated Character in a Commercial or Broadcast Program Henry Badgett, Mark Brown, Rafael Morant, James Sutton for `` Fire and Blood '' Nominated Outstanding Created Environment in a Commercial or Broadcast Program Markus Kuha, Damien Macé, Dante Harbridge Robinson, Fani Vassiadi for `` The Icewall '' Won Outstanding Supporting Visual Effects in a Broadcast Program Lucy Ainsworth - Taylor, Angela Barson, Ed Bruce, Adam McInnes for `` Winter Is Coming '' Won Release Broadcast Game of Thrones premiered on HBO in the United States and Canada on April 17, 2011, and on Sky Atlantic in the United Kingdom and Ireland on April 18, 2011, with a same - day release on HBO Central Europe. The series premiered in Australia on Showcase on July 17, 2011. Home media The first season of Game of Thrones was released on DVD and Blu - ray Disc on March 6, 2012. The set includes extra background and behind - the - scenes material, but no deleted scenes, because almost all footage shot for the first season was used in the show. HBO released a Collector 's Edition DVD / Blu - ray combo pack of the first season, which includes a resin - carved Dragon Egg Paperweight. The set was released in the United States and Canada on November 20, 2012. Game of Thrones : The Complete First Season Set details Special features Format : AC - 3, Blu - ray, DTS Surround Sound, Dubbed, NTSC, Subtitled, Widescreen Language : English, French, Spanish Subtitles : English, French, Spanish, Castilian, Portuguese, Polish, Dutch, Danish, Finnish, Norwegian, Swedish 16 : 9 aspect ratio 5 - disc set, 10 episodes `` Making Game of Thrones '' : A 30 - minute feature including new footage from the set and interviews. `` Creating the Show Open '' : Portrays the creation of the opening title sequence. `` From the Book to the Screen '' : Interviews with Benioff, Weiss, and Martin about the adaptation process. `` Character Profiles '' : Fifteen principal characters described by their actors. `` The Night 's Watch '' : An examination of the warrior order that Jon Snow joins. `` Creating the Dothraki Language '' : Covers the creation of the Dothraki language. Seven audio commentaries by, among others, Benioff, Weiss, Martin, Clarke, Dinklage and Harington. Blu - ray exclusive : `` Complete Guide to Westeros '', an interactive compendium of the noble houses and lands featured in Season One, and 24 histories of the Seven Kingdoms as told by the series 's characters. `` Anatomy of an Episode '' : A detailed feature about the production of episode six, A Golden Crown. `` In - Episode Guide '' : Provides background information about characters, locations, and histories while each episode plays. `` Hidden Dragon Eggs '', easter eggs. DVD release dates Region 1 Region 2 Region 4 March 6, 2012 March 5, 2012 August 10, 2012 References Jump up ^ `` The Citadel : So Spake Martin ''. Westeros.org. July 27, 2008. Archived from the original on August 17, 2016. Retrieved February 24, 2013. Jump up ^ Seidman, Robert ( April 19, 2011 ). `` Sunday Cable Ratings : NBA, ' Storage Wars, ' ' Ax Men, ' ' Khloe & Lamar ' + ' The Killing, ' ' Breakout Kings, ' ' Sam Axe, ' ' Game of Thrones ' & Much More ''. TV by the Numbers. 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Jump up ^ `` PGA Announces Theatrical Motion Picture and Long - Form Television Nominations for 2012 PGA Awards ''. Producers Guild of America. January 3, 2012. Retrieved July 7, 2016. Jump up ^ Goldberg, Matt ( February 29, 2012 ). `` Saturn Award Nominations Announced ; Hugo and Harry Potter Lead with 10 Nominations Each ''. Collider. Retrieved July 7, 2016. Jump up ^ `` The 18th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards ''. Screen Actors Guild of America. June 19, 2012. Retrieved July 7, 2016. Jump up ^ `` Best TV DVD or Blu - ray - Best of 2012 ''. IGN. Retrieved July 19, 2016. Jump up ^ `` 10th Annual VES Awards ''. Visual Effects Society. Retrieved July 7, 2016. Jump up ^ Hibberd, James ( January 7, 2011 ). `` ' Game of Thrones ' premiere date revealed ''. Entertainment Weekly. Retrieved February 24, 2013. Jump up ^ `` Game of Thrones, HBO 'S Sweeping New Fantasy Series, Begins April 17 on HBO Canada ''. Newswire. March 22, 2011. Retrieved February 24, 2013. Jump up ^ `` Game of Thrones : Premiere Date Announced ''. Sky Atlantic. February 22, 2010. Retrieved February 24, 2013. Jump up ^ `` Game of Thrones International Air Dates ''. Westeros.org. Retrieved December 7, 2016. Jump up ^ Knox, David ( June 2, 2011 ). `` Airdate : Game of Thrones ''. TV Tonight. Retrieved February 24, 2013. ^ Jump up to : Lambert, David ( December 5, 2011 ). `` Game of Thrones -- HBO 's Official Press Release with Full Details of ' The Complete 1st Season ' on DVD, Blu - ray ''. TVShowsOnDVD.com. Retrieved February 3, 2012. Jump up ^ Hibberd, James ( November 30, 2011 ). `` ' Game of Thrones ' scoop : DVD release date, details, photos ''. Entertainment Weekly. Retrieved December 5, 2011. Jump up ^ Lambert, David ( July 13, 2012 ). `` Game of Thrones -- ' The Complete 1st Season : Collector 's Edition ' BD / DVD Combo Pack Includes a Dragon Egg ! ''. TVShowsOnDVD.com. Retrieved July 14, 2012. Jump up ^ Lambert, David ( December 5, 2011 ). `` Game of Thrones -- HBO 's Official Press Release with Full Details of The Complete 1st Season on DVD, Blu - ray ''. TVShowsOnDVD.com. Archived from the original on September 1, 2016. Retrieved February 3, 2012. Jump up ^ `` Game of Thrones - Season 1 ( DVD ) ( 2012 ) ''. Amazon.co.uk. Archived from the original on June 19, 2016. Retrieved November 14, 2016. Jump up ^ `` Game Of Thrones - Season 1 ''. jbhifi.com.au. Archived from the original on November 14, 2016. Retrieved November 14, 2016. External links Game of Thrones -- official US site Game of Thrones -- official UK site Game of Thrones -- The Viewers Guide on HBO.com Making Game of Thrones on HBO.com List of Game of Thrones episodes on IMDb List of Game of Thrones episodes at TV.com Game of Thrones : Season 1 at Rotten Tomatoes George R.R. Martin 's A Song of Ice and Fire A Game of Thrones ( 1996 ) A Clash of Kings ( 1998 ) A Storm of Swords ( 2000 ) A Feast for Crows ( 2005 ) A Dance with Dragons ( 2011 ) The Winds of Winter ( TBA ) Franchise media Novellas Tales of Dunk and Egg ( 1998 -- 2010 ) The Princess and the Queen ( 2013 ) The Rogue Prince ( 2014 ) The Sons of the Dragon ( 2017 ) TV series Episodes Season 1 5 6 7 8 Awards Characters Music `` Game of Thrones Theme '' `` The Rains of Castamere '' `` The Bear and the Maiden Fair '' `` Light of the Seven '' Catch the Throne Live Concert Experience Soundtracks Season 1 5 6 Title sequence After the Thrones Thronecast Video games A Game of Thrones : Genesis Game of Thrones ( 2012 ) Game of Thrones Ascent Game of Thrones ( 2014 ) Other media The World of Ice & Fire ( 2014 ) Board game Card game ( Second edition ) Comic book series Characters Petyr Baelish Joffrey Baratheon Renly Baratheon Robert Baratheon Stannis Baratheon Tommen Baratheon Ramsay Bolton Roose Bolton Bronn Gregor Clegane Sandor Clegane Khal Drogo Gendry Tormund Giantsbane Gilly Theon Greyjoy Cersei Lannister Jaime Lannister Tyrion Lannister Tywin Lannister Oberyn Martell Melisandre Missandei Jorah Mormont Daario Naharis Ellaria Sand Davos Seaworth Jon Snow High Sparrow Arya Stark Bran Stark Catelyn Stark Ned Stark Rickon Stark Robb Stark Sansa Stark Daenerys Targaryen Viserys Targaryen Samwell Tarly Brienne of Tarth Margaery Tyrell Olenna Tyrell Varys Ygritte World Languages Dothraki Valyrian Themes Iron Throne White Walker Miscellaneous Fandom Book Category Game of Thrones episodes Seasons : 1 5 6 7 8 Season 1 `` Winter Is Coming '' `` The Kingsroad '' `` Lord Snow '' `` Cripples, Bastards, and Broken Things '' `` The Wolf and the Lion '' `` A Golden Crown '' `` You Win or You Die '' `` The Pointy End '' `` Baelor '' `` Fire and Blood '' Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation, Long Form The Lord of the Rings : The Two Towers ( 2003 ) The Lord of the Rings : The Return of the King ( 2004 ) The Incredibles ( 2005 ) Serenity ( 2006 ) Pan 's Labyrinth ( 2007 ) Stardust ( 2008 ) WALL - E ( 2009 ) Moon ( 2010 ) Inception ( 2011 ) Game of Thrones ( season 1 ) ( 2012 ) The Avengers ( 2013 ) Gravity ( 2014 ) Guardians of the Galaxy ( 2015 ) The Martian ( 2016 ) Arrival ( 2017 ) Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Television Series 24, season 6 ( 2007 ) Heroes, season 3, part I ( 2008 ) 24, season 7 ( 2009 ) True Blood, season 3 ( 2010 ) Game of Thrones, season 1 ( 2011 ) Game of Thrones, season 2 ( 2012 ) Game of Thrones, season 3 ( 2013 ) Game of Thrones, season 4 ( 2014 ) Game of Thrones, season 5 ( 2015 ) Game of Thrones, season 6 ( 2016 ) Retrieved from `` https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Game_of_Thrones_(season_1)&oldid=809084595 '' Categories : 2011 American television seasons Game of Thrones Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation, Long Form winning works Hidden categories : Use mdy dates from February 2013 Official website different in Wikidata and Wikipedia Featured lists Talk Contents About Wikipedia Wikiquote Languages Dansk Deutsch Español فارسی Français Galego Հայերեն Bahasa Indonesia Italiano ქართული Magyar Português Română Русский Suomi Türkçe Tiếng Việt 中文 Edit links This page was last edited on 7 November 2017, at 01 : 15. 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Question: when did this season of game of thrones start
Answer: April 17, 2011