10 Best ‘Game of Thrones’ References in Other Shows

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The ending of the television series known as “Game of Thrones” was unveiled some years back, facing intense criticism and leaving numerous questions unanswered. Yet, despite its controversial finale, it persists in popularity through its prequel titled “House of the Dragon” and other upcoming spin-offs. Remarkably, allusions to its lasting impact can often be found in various other television programs.

Multiple mentions are used not only to express appreciation for the series and its influence, but also to imitate iconic characters or episodes. Despite being diverse in style, all these references pay tribute to Game of Thrones, demonstrating how it revolutionized contemporary television.

10
‘Westworld’ (2016)

In the captivating series “Westworld,” stars like Evan Rachel Wood, Thandiwe Newton, Anthony Hopkins, and many more talented actors bring the story to life. This drama unfolds in a unique amusement park setting where visitors can indulge in their wildest dreams with advanced, sentient robots.

Multiple subtle nods to “Game of Thrones” were scattered throughout the initial season. For instance, the first episode showcased a brooch resembling the sigil of the Hand of the King, while the finale episode subtly hinted at the Starks with a falling snowflake coinciding with the arrival of a wolf, reflecting their symbol and motto. Additionally, in season 2, Drogon was presented as one of the attractions, with David Benioff and D.B. Weiss taking on the roles of technicians.

What Could Have Been

It’s said that George R.R. Martin proposed a joint venture between the two shows. Although such an event never materialized, the allusions effectively conveyed an imaginative portrayal of how Westworld and Westeros might intersect.

9
‘Bob’s Burgers’ (2011)

The animated series “Bob’s Burgers” follows a family trying to make ends meet by running a burger restaurant. In the episode titled “The Gayle Tales,” each of Bob’s children writes an essay to win tickets for Aunt Gayle to attend the “Yarnival.” Gene pens a piece on a country western act, Tina imitates “Lady Chatterley’s Lover,” and Luanne chooses a “Game of Thrones” theme for her story. In this tale, titled “Gayle of Thrones,” Gayle is the Queen of “Catsteros.” When her cat-dragons are kidnapped by an antagonist played by Gene (an evil Warlock), she teams up with Knight Louise to vanquish white talkers (rambling Teddies) and confront her sister, Lindaryen (Linda). Together they embark on a quest to rescue their cherished pets.

A Winning Story

Although Luanne didn’t secure the tickets with her tale, it was a triumph in our eyes. Humorous, intelligent, and a bit alarming considering Luanne’s age, the story contained all the essential elements that would delight fans of both “Bob’s Burgers” and “Game of Thrones.

8
‘Supernatural’ (2005)

In fitting fashion, Supernatural revolves around the supernatural adventures of brothers Sam and Dean as they track down monsters and demons. The episode “Slumber Party” served as a tribute to The Wizard of Oz, yet it sprinkled in references to Game of Thrones. As they awaited their hacker friend Charlie’s file transfer on angels, the brothers indulged in a marathon of Game of Thrones. This resulted in numerous quotes reminiscent of Joffrey, White Walkers, and Arya’s Needle, such as needing an item with a sharp edge.

Other ‘Game of Thrones’ References

In this episode, though it was the most overt, there were also subtle nods to “Game of Thrones” scattered throughout the rest of the series. For instance, Sam and Dean adopted the pseudonyms Martell and Stark during Season 11, and in “Raising Hell,” God commented that the final episode of “Game of Thrones” was “quite good,” which might not have been a genuine compliment.

7
‘Key & Peele’ (2012)

Key & Peele was a comedy show where Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele, who were previously on MADtv, would perform sketches. In an episode titled ‘The 420 Special,’ they played valets engrossed in a lively chat about ‘Game of Thrones.’ They talked about various topics like Ned Stark’s demise, Daenerys’ dragons, and the shocking Red Wedding. However, their discussion took an unexpected turn when they suddenly went through a moon door.

Real-World Reactions

The conversation among the valets wasn’t far off from what regular viewers might have thought or discussed about the show. They praised Peter “Dadinkles” Dinklage and were taken aback by several deaths, making it clear that Game of Thrones was popular and beloved for its captivating characters and unexpected turns, which is why it wasn’t surprising that people couldn’t help but talk about it non-stop.

6
‘Family Guy’ (1999)

In a humorous twist, the animated sitcom Family Guy revolves around the misadventures of Peter Griffin and his kin in the make-believe town of Quahog. The episode titled “HBO-No” playfully imitated characters and significant events from popular series such as Game of Thrones, Succession, and Big Little Lies. Some of these spoofed incidents featured Stewie as Prince Joffrey claiming the throne, Peter as John Yellowsnow engaging in battle with the White Walkers, and Joe attempting to tap into his otherworldly visions (as depicted by Joe the Broken).

Even More References

In addition to this specific episode, the series “Game of Thrones” is often alluded to in various other instances. For instance, an Emmy-winning episode showcased a white walker and dragon, while “Family Cat” and “Hot Pocket-Dial” incorporated references to Cersei Lannister’s walk of shame. Numerous episodes throughout the show also made mention of the infamous Starbucks coffee cup incident in “Game of Thrones.

5
‘Parks and Recreation’ (2009)

The sitcom Parks and Recreation focused on the character Leslie Knope, played by Amy Poehler, who was a dedicated public servant in the town of Pawnee, Indiana. Leslie’s husband, Ben Wyatt, played by Adam Scott, had a strong fondness for the television series Game of Thrones, often showcasing this through his eBay username “Tall Tyrion Lannister.” In turn, other characters in the show also referenced Game of Thrones, with Leslie even giving Ben an Iron Throne replica as a gift for their anniversary.

The References Continue

In the course of its entire run, there are significantly more allusions to “Game of Thrones” in “Parks and Recreation.” Particularly, Leslie Knope forecasted certain aspects of the actual series’ conclusion.

4
‘The Simpsons’ (1989)

The Simpsons” revolves around a charming yet troubled family residing in Springfield. In the premiere of its 29th season, titled “The Serfsons,” Marge discovers that her mother, Jacqueline, has been bitten by an Ice Walker. To prevent her from freezing solid, they need the costly Amulet of Warmfyre. In a bid to obtain it, Lisa employs her magical abilities to conjure gold. Unfortunately, this act catches the eye of the malevolent King Quimby, who accuses her of sorcery.

In an attempt to win her back, Homer instigates a peasant uprising that leads them into confrontation with a fearsome dragon. Desperate, Jacqueline discards her talisman and transforms herself into ice to slay the beast. However, this action also drains the world of its magic. Unwilling to inhabit a world devoid of enchantment, Homer strives to resurrect the dragon, but instead, it wreaks havoc on the village.

The series titled “The Serfsons” offers a quirky, if peculiar, reinterpretation of the world of “Game of Thrones.” For instance, the Ice Walkers serve as substitutes for the White Walkers, while dragons maintain a noticeable connection. Remarkably, it accurately foreshadowed aspects of the series finale. However, this isn’t the only instance where “The Simpsons” has paid tribute to “Game of Thrones.” In various episodes, opening sequences have mimicked the show, and characters like Comic Book Guy and Selma have been depicted as ardent fans. Furthermore, they are proficient in speaking Dothraki, as shown in “My Life as a Vlog.

3
‘The Office’ (2005)

The TV series called “The Office“, a mockumentary sitcom, unfolded its story at Dunder Mifflin Paper Company, focusing on the quirky work lives of its characters. In one episode, Erin Hannon (portrayed by Ellie Kemper) fretted over meeting Andy Bernard’s (Ed Helms) family. To win them over, Dwight Schrute, played by Rainn Wilson, offered to teach her the made-up language of Dothraki, which she eagerly agreed to learn. However, at the episode’s end, Erin felt disheartened when she discovered that the language was not real. Nonetheless, her mood brightened when Pete Miller (Jake Lacy) shared that he knew a bit of the made-up tongue too.

Canonically Influential

It seems that Dwight’s tutorials on the Dothraki language were so impressive that a portion of his teaching methods were incorporated into the actual language by its creator, David Peterson. Later during the 2011 Emmy Awards, the show Game of Thrones made another reference to this when a Dothraki warrior was interviewed on stage, grumbling about his fellow actors.

2
‘Sesame Street’ (1969)

During the 45th season of Sesame Street, viewers enjoyed a fun and age-suitable spoof of Game of Thrones, titled “Game of Chairs.” In this amusing skit, the characters ventured into the realm of Jesteros, meeting puppet versions of Tyrion, Daenerys, and other beloved show characters. They then took part in a Game of Chairs to determine the new ruler of the kingdom, but a rather clumsy Grover somehow managed to emerge victorious!

References Both Ways

It’s quite surprising, but even the epic series “Game of Thrones” made a few references to the beloved children’s show, “Sesame Street”. In fact, several members of House Tully bear names similar to characters from Sesame Street. For instance, Ser Elmo Tully, Lord Kermit Tully, and Lord Grover Tully. The latter was actually mentioned in an episode of “House of the Dragon”, which sparked this amusing tweet:

“Who would have thought that Westeros and Sesame Street would intersect? I can’t help but laugh at the mention of Lord Grover Tully!

1
‘South Park’ (1997)

In terms of references to “Game of Thrones,” the Black Friday trilogy of South Park takes the lead. These Thanksgiving episodes depict the characters planning to be the earliest shoppers at a mall on Black Friday to secure massive discounts. However, their plan goes awry when some want PlayStation 4s while others prefer Xbox Ones, causing them to split into factions and clash among themselves.

Thankful for These References

These episodes, ranging from Cartman’s ‘Betrayal Garden’, George R.R. Martin’s ‘Wiener Wiener’ song, and Kenny transforming into a real princess, are cleverly amusing and a delightful homage to the world of Game of Thrones. It’s challenging to articulate exactly what makes this series standout, but it’s not surprising that the parody resonates given the show’s history of incorporating references from various media.

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2025-01-12 04:32