A month has passed since HBO’s groundbreaking sixth series of Game of Thrones came to an end with the spectacular “Winds of Winter” episode.

But as the television phenomenon prepares for its final hurdle, HBO’s new programming chief Casey Bloys has confirmed that the small-screen adaptation of George R.R Martin’s acclaimed novels will officially end at Series 8 in 2018.

However Bloys did state that HBO were keen for the programme to go to 10 seasons but showrunners David Benioff and DB Weiss already had a plan for the number of series they wanted to do. He said:

“If I could get them to do more, I would take 10 seasons. But we want to take their lead with what they can do and what the best version of the show is.”

The news comes following the recent announcement that Series 7 would not only be reduced to seven episodes but that it wouldn’t return to our screens until next summer owing to filming being pushed back.

There has been speculation that a Westeros spinoff could be made that would focus on the origins of Game of Thrones but Bloys said that no plans were currently being made as of yet.

The show recently received a dominant 23 Emmy Award nominations which included Outstanding Drama as well as acting nods for stars Peter Dinklage (Tyrion Lannister), Kit Harington (Jon Snow), Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen), Lena Headey (Cersei Lannister) and Maisie Williams (Arya Stark).

In the meantime, fans must either occupy themselves with other series or just rewatch Thrones again to make up for the long delay!