‘Game of Thrones’ Season 6 Might Feature Yet Another Surprise Return

Every year, the Game of Thrones media circus seems to grow more and more intense, though none moreso than our first year going largely off-book. Rumors of dead characters’ return have also flown in every direction, but the latest set photos of Mereen reveal what might be the most unexpected resurrection to date.

Take this one with a grain of salt for the moment (okay, about every Game of Thrones rumor comes with a side-order of salt), as well as awareness of Seasons 4 / 5 spoilers, but of all expired characters, it seems Shae (Sibel Kekilli) may put in a surprising return for Season 6. Through various Spain set photos, Kekelli can clearly be observed on the set with past co-star Conleth Hill (Varys) and showrunner David Benioff, albeit without a costume to confirm any kind of onscreen role.

Granted, it’s entirely possible Kekelli simply visited the set, though Watchers on the Wall sources potentially place the actress in the same hotel as other actors. Season 6 will also likely prove an important one for Tyrion, newly charged with overseeing Mereen in Daenerys’ absence, which could prompt any number of dream, or flashback to incorporate the dearly-departed Shae.

Elsewhere of Game of Thrones Season 6, screen legend Max von Sydow has been cast as the mysterious Three-Eyed Raven to a returning Bran, while Deadwood alum Ian McShane will also appear in a limited, mysterious role, joining Richard E. Grant and The Babadook star Essie Davis as theatre troup players, four notable actors as the Tarly family, and Borgen star Pilou Asbæk as fan-favorite Euron Greyjoy. Apart from a list of directors, Of Monsters and Men will put in a cameo, and story logistics seemingly confirm scenes set at The Wall next year, presumably to explain this.

HBO wouldn’t offer any commentary, but what can we make of the latest Game of Thrones Season 6 sighting? Can we expect more official confirmation before 2016?