‘Game of Thrones’ Season 5 Photos: The Best of Westeros and Essos Return!

Given that late last night saw ‘Game of Thrones’ season 5 predictably leaking its first trailer online, HBO understandably today follows suit with a HD release and plenty of photos to accompany it. See all your favorites (and get a first look at the new characters) with the first photos from ‘Game of Thrones’ season 5!

As with every year (though why wait until quittin’ time Friday?!), there isn’t very much to see beyond the usual ‘Game of Thrones’ faces, including Emilia Clarke’s Daenerys, Kit Harington’s Jon Snow, Lena Headey’s Cersei or Peter Dinklage’s Tyrion, though at least in his case the witty Lannister has a new beard to remain incognito abroad.

Elsewhere, it looks as if newly-minted X-Woman Sophie Turner continues rocking the Dark Sansa look, while Melisandre and Stannis take in the comforts of Castle Black. The new photos also offer our first look at Alexander Siddig’s Prince Doran Martell, along with Deobia Opaeri’s Areo Hotah, seen clutching Ellaria Sand. And hey, Jonathan Pryce makes for a great High Sparrow, and Tormund Giantsbane is back! Just look at the photos, guys, it’s Friday.

Elsewhere of ‘Game of Thrones’ season 5 (already renewed for 6, with the cast signed through 7), we know of multiple returning, confirmed absent, and new characters cast, including those that confirm we’ll be visiting the oft-mentioned kingdom of Dorne, for which Spain will double. The story will draw heavily from George R.R. Martin’s fourth and fifth novels, ‘A Feast for Crows’ and ‘A Dance with Dragons,’ while HBO has also provided a list of directors, as well as insight into which literary stories may not make the transition to film.

You can also check out the HD trailer for ‘Game of Thrones’ season 5 over and over until the April 12 premiere, but what say you? Check out the full gallery of ‘Game of Thrones’ season 5 photos above, and give us your predictions in the comments!