‘Game of Thrones’ Season 6 Casts the Rest of the Tarly Family

We can speculate all the live-long day as to whether Jon Snow will return for Game of Thrones Season 6, but actual casting gives a much better look at 2016. Latest to join the Game of Thrones world are the rest of Samwell Tarly’s family, including Downton Abbey villain James Faulkner, Samantha Spiro and Rebecca Benson!

According to Watchers on the Wall, Faulkner has joined Game of Thrones Season 6 in the role of Sam’s stern father Randyll Tarly, along with Samantha Spiro as his mother, and Rebecca Benson his sister. The trio join UnREAL star Freddie Stroma as Sam’s more athletic brother Dickon, while casting notices had much earlier previewed the lot of them:

Father. Aged 50s to 60s, he’s one of the greatest soldiers in Westeros — a humorless martinet, severe and intimidating. He demands martial discipline in the field and in his home. It’s described as “a very good part” for next year, which will be “centrally involved” in a protagonist’s story line.

Mother, in her 50s. She’s a sweet, plump, and adoring mother, and has a soft spot for one of her children who benefits from her decency.

Sister, in her early 20s. She’s a kind, friendly, and unpretentious woman.

Brother, in his early-to-mid-20s. Athletic, a good hunter, an excellent swordsman, manly, not particularly bright, but the favorite child of the father.

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, and Borgen star Pilou Asbæk as fan-favorite Euron Greyjoy. Apart from a list of directors, story logistics seemingly confirm scenes set at The Wall next year, Jon Snow or otherwise.

We’ve still a ways to go before HBO confirms any official Game of Thrones Season 6 details, but what should we make of the Tarlys taking root in upcoming episodes?