Game of Thrones: How Missandei's Change Enhanced the Show

The character development of Missandei in HBO's "Game of Thrones" significantly enhanced the show, proving that some deviations from the source material can be beneficial. By aging up Missandei, the series created richer storylines and more complex relationships, especially with Daenerys.

While "Game of Thrones" largely adhered to George R. R. Martin's books, certain changes improved the narrative. Martin himself has acknowledged that some alterations, such as Shae's characterization, were superior to his original writing.

One such positive change involved Missandei (Nathalie Emmanuel), whose role and relationships differed significantly from her counterpart in "A Song of Ice and Fire." She became a vital part of Daenerys' journey, acting as a loyal supporter and confidante throughout Meereen and Westeros.

Although her ending was tragic, Missandei served as a catalyst for Daenerys' ultimate fate. The show's decision to age her up dramatically led to more interesting storylines and strengthened her connection with other characters.

Why 'Game of Thrones' Changed Missandei's Character

The most apparent change to Missandei is her age. The series portrays her as a young woman rather than the 10-year-old girl depicted in Martin's books. What motivated this significant alteration?

Several practical reasons contributed to this decision. Aging up Missandei, along with other young characters like Daenerys and Jon, eliminated the need to hire a child actor, simplifying the filming process and ensuring age consistency within the cast. The maturity of Nathalie Emmanuel also brought a depth to the character that a child actor might not have been able to convey.

While Missandei could have remained a child without directly affecting early plot points, aging her up made sense given the dark themes explored in her storyline. Her experiences as a slave, her liberation by Daenerys, and her role as a voice for the formerly enslaved were all better conveyed by a mature actress.

How Aging Up Missandei Shaped Her Relationships

Despite the initial similarities in her story, aging up Missandei fundamentally changed her relationship with Daenerys. In the books, Missandei becomes a handmaiden, viewing Daenerys as a source of safety and even calling her "mother."

However, in the show, they develop a genuine friendship. They intimate details about their lives, offering each other advice and support. Game of Thrones transformed them into one of the show's most compelling duos, showcasing a rare positive female friendship.

Missandei's increased age also allowed her to become a trusted advisor to Daenerys. While Daenerys had other, more experienced advisors like Tyrion and Varys, she valued Missandei's perspective and took her words to heart. This element of their relationship simply wouldn't have worked if Missandei remained a child.

Missandei's Romance with Grey Worm

Another significant consequence of aging up Missandei was her romantic relationship with Grey Worm. Their bond, based on genuine love rather than political maneuvering, stood out as a rare example of a healthy relationship in "Game of Thrones."

Their relationship allowed both Missandei and Grey Worm to explore their identities and desires. They shared stories of their past, forging a connection that few others could understand. Their plan to return to Missandei's home of Naath after the war added depth to their characters, making her death all the more tragic.

In conclusion, while significantly different from her book counterpart, the show's portrayal of Missandei is a testament to the fact that not all adaptations are detrimental. By aging her up, "Game of Thrones" created a more compelling character with richer relationships and storylines that ultimately enhanced the overall narrative.