HBO's "Game of Thrones" is a fantasy television series based on the book series "A Song of Ice and Fire" by George R.R. Martin. The show premiered in 2011 and concluded in 2019, spanning eight seasons. It is set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos, where noble families vie for control of the Iron Throne and the Seven Kingdoms. The series features a large ensemble cast, including actors like Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, and Peter Dinklage. Known for its complex characters, intricate political plots, and unexpected deaths, "Game of Thrones" received critical acclaim and numerous awards, becoming a cultural phenomenon during its run.