Who Becomes King After Robert'S Death In 'A Game Of Thrones'?

The aftermath of Robert Baratheon's death in 'A Game of Thrones' is a masterclass in political chaos, and I love how George R.R. Martin doesn’t just hand the throne to the obvious successor. Joffrey Baratheon, Robert’s so-called son, gets crowned, but let’s be real—he’s a Lannister puppet through and through. The kid’s got the golden hair and the cruelty to match, thanks to his real dad, Jaime. The whole thing is a mess of lies and power grabs. Cersei pulls the strings, Ned Stark’s honor gets him killed, and the realm fractures before Joffrey even sits his skinny butt on the Iron Throne. It’s wild how his "rule" is just a prelude to war—Starks, Baratheons, everyone sees through the farce. The way the books show his coronation, all pomp and no substance, perfectly foreshadows the disaster he’ll become.

What’s even juicier is the ripple effect. Stannis, Robert’s actual brother, knows Joffrey’s a fraud and starts gathering forces, while Renly, the younger brother, decides he’d be a prettier king. The Tyrells sniff opportunity and latch onto Renly, then pivot to Joffrey when he dies. Meanwhile, the North declares Robb Stark their king, and the Iron Islands go rogue under Balon Greyjoy. Joffrey’s "reign" is less about ruling and more about watching the Seven Kingdoms implode. The throne itself feels like a cursed relic by this point—everyone who touches it bleeds. Martin’s genius is making you realize the crown’s not a prize; it’s a ticking time bomb.