George R. R. Martin says he didn’t think A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms really needed the poop scene

by

Game of Thrones was always known for its intense and shocking scenes, but the latest prequel series managed to surprise even the person who made it.

The first episode of ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms‘ began with a surprising scene: just as the familiar theme music started as Ser Duncan the Tall prepared to joust, it was cut short by a very graphic depiction of him having an urgent digestive issue.

The scene was divisive among fans, and it turns out it also caught George R. R. Martin off guard.

Ira Parker, the showrunner for ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,’ recently explained the reasoning behind the scene featuring Dunk having to use the restroom. He said the scene is meant to show that Dunk isn’t a seasoned hero yet, but rather a young, anxious character – much like himself. (Source: The Hollywood Reporter)

— ScreenTime (@screentime) January 20, 2026

Martin wasn’t sold on Duncan poop scene

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Martin said he was surprised to see that particular scene make it into the adaptation of his work.

Martin admitted he was a little surprised by the scene. While his characters aren’t strangers to bodily functions, he typically doesn’t focus on those details in his writing.

According to the author, his reaction was immediate when he saw the rough cut of the episode.

Martin said he was shocked by the initial edit of the film, writing, ‘I don’t understand this, where did it come from, and I’m not sure it’s necessary.’

Even though Martin had some doubts, the scene made it into the final cut of the episode. He explained the decision was a matter of differing creative visions, noting that the showrunner, Ira Parker, simply liked it.

These comments build on what Parker previously explained: the scene was designed to show that Duncan isn’t a seasoned hero yet, but rather a worried and inexperienced young knight who makes mistakes like anyone else.

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms draws from George R.R. Martin’s ‘Dunk and Egg’ stories, offering a more lighthearted yet still surprising addition to the world of Game of Thrones.

Read More

2026-01-20 20:48