2. Shireen And Stannis Baratheon (Game Of Thrones)
Cause Of Death: Burnt at the stake by Melisandre (Shireen); killed by Brienne of Tarth after the Battle of Winterfell (Stannis). Why It's Important: A variety of reasons. In terms of Shireen's death, this was one of the most brutal on the show (the sound of her screams isn't going to die anytime soon), and served as a timely reminder that this show was willing to go to some extreme places. For Stannis, it was Brienne fulfilling her vow, and also the death of the biggest challenger to the Iron Throne left in Westeros (and, ahem, the rightful heir; long live the Mannis). From a book reader's point of view, this was also hugely important as neither event had took place in the book. While things are playing out differently, these deaths were big examples of the show moving ahead of the novels, and either deviating in a big way or providing some major spoilers for The Winds of Winter.
NCTJ-qualified journalist. Most definitely not a racing driver. Drink too much tea; eat too much peanut butter; watch too much TV. Sadly only the latter paying off so far.
A mix of wise-old man in a young man's body with a child-like wonder about him and a great otherworldly sensibility.