By now, everyone will be across the glaring “error” in the most recent episode of Game of Thrones. In case you missed it (and I’m not sure how given I’ve never watched a single episode of the show and I know about it!), someone left a Starbucks coffee cup in front of Dany during the Battle of Winterfell celebration. But was it really an accident? I’m not convinced.
Game of Thrones is one of the most talked about TV show of recent times. Every episode is heavily scrutinised with fans using the pause button to look for clues as to what might be coming next and to learn more about the universe created by George R.R. Martin. So it’s no surprise that something so glaringly outside the continuity was picked up.
But here’s the thing.
HBO has a reputation for extremely high production values and makes sure its shows are as well produced as possible. Budgets are high and nothing is left to chance. So while continuity errors are possible, lots of money is spent to ensure we suspend our disbelief and engage in the fantasy world .
But Game of Thrones is nearing the end of its run and that means the cash cow will soon be less valuable. That means it’s time to start thinking about maximising revenue opportunities. So, perhaps what we saw wasn’t really an accident but a clever piece of viral marketing.
Perhaps for the series finale, the characters will show up for battle in Hummers and wear some of Nike’s new Combat range of apparel.
I’ve reached out to Starbucks to find out if there’s more to this.
[Update]
Starbucks responded to the appearance of the cup. And while it didn’t address the question directly, the company did tweet this response.
TBH we’re surprised she didn’t order a Dragon Drink.
— Starbucks Coffee (@Starbucks) May 6, 2019
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