Confirmed: HBO is preparing a sequel to 'Game of Thrones'

Game of Thrones will officially have a sequel series and it will be set after the ending that divided millions of fans around the world.

The confirmation arrived after years of speculation and marks a key shift in HBO 's strategy with one of the most influential franchises.

The Hollywood Reporter confirmed the new series

According to The Hollywood Reporter, HBO has already given the green light to a Game of Thrones sequel series, set after the controversial ending.

The project comes after the sustained success of the prequels and seeks to answer the fans' long-standing request: to know what happened next. The news becomes known while the network continues expanding the universe with new spin-off productions.

Arya Stark, the one chosen to lead the story

The sequel will be centered on Arya Stark. The series will function as a replacement for the project that was going to be focused on Jon Snow, which was ultimately scrapped.

The script will be written by Quoc Dang Tran, although there is still no officially confirmed cast.

A path opened beyond Westeros

The ending of the original series left Arya setting sail westward, toward unknown territories. That narrative point makes it possible to develop a completely new story without depending on the return of the original cast.

The sequel could introduce new worlds, cultures, and conflicts never before seen in the saga.

Is Maisie Williams coming back?

For now, Maisie Williams hasn't signed a contract to reprise the role of Arya. This leaves open the possibility of a recast, a decision that wouldn't be well received by the followers.

The production team states that the project is in an early stage of development.

What comes next for Game of Thrones

Meanwhile, as the sequel moves forward cautiously, HBO will continue to make a strong bet on the universe created by George R. R. Martin.

In the short term, fans will be able to enjoy new series set in other periods of Westeros.