Has one of Game of Thrones Season 2's biggest mysteries been solved 14 years after it first aired on HBO? In the Season 2 finale, the White Walkers decide not to kill Samwell Tarly, letting him escape unscathed.
As a reminder, in "Valar Morghulis," a White Walker on an undead horse rode past Sam as he cowered behind a rock at the Fist of the First Men, made eye contact, and yet chose not to kill him.
Fans have long wondered why the merciless villains from North of the Wall wouldn't make short work of Jon Snow's best friend, and George R.R. Martin's books haven't helped. The scene never plays out on the page, meaning even The Winds of Winter and A Dream of Spring won't be able to figure out what happened between Sam and the White Walkers.
In a recent interview, Game of Thrones star John Bradley shared his take on how Sam managed to survive the encounter.
"My theory was always that Samwell was one of the very few people that was literate," the actor explained. "He could read and write and he could spread the word. They want people to know about them. It's sort of like a negative PR machine. They wanted Samwell to be their PR arm. Get the word out there that we're not to be messed about with."
Bradley admitted that he's not sure of the official "canon" answer, but it does make sense. This was also a key moment for Game of Thrones' story, as Sam was able to deduce that the White Walkers could be killed by dragonglass.
This came after he discovered the precious material at the Fist of the First Men, killed a White Walker (earning the title "Sam the Slayer"), and helped orchestrate the ultimate defeat of the Night King alongside Snow. As a result, the White Walkers made a crucial mistake in letting Sam live, as he was eventually pivotal in their downfall.
Game of Thrones Season 2 plays out against the backdrop of a fast-approaching winter. In King's Landing, the coveted Iron Throne is occupied by cruel young Joffrey, counselled by his conniving mother Cersei and uncle Tyrion. But the Lannister hold on the Throne is under assault on many fronts.
There's Robb Stark, son of the slain Lord of Winterfell, Ned Stark; Daenerys Targaryen, who looks to shore up her depleted power through three newborn dragons; Stannis Baratheon, eldest brother of the late King Robert; and Stannis' brother Renly, who has maintained his own claim since fleeing King's Landing.
In the meantime, a new leader is rising among the wildlings North of the Wall, adding new perils for Jon Snow and the Night's Watch. With tensions and treaties, animosity and alliances, season 2 of Game of Thrones promises to be a thrilling journey through a riveting, unforgettable landscape.
You can hear more from Bradley in the player below.