What's better than the triumphant return of Bran Stark to Game of Thrones [1]? The fact that he'll be joined by nine other characters who have been gone for at least one season. The show is packed with so many people that it must be borderline impossible to fit them all into one season, so it makes sense that some take center stage while others bow out for awhile. Having said that, we're stoked that these 10 people are coming back. Note that these are only the characters confirmed to be returning, not those who are rumored to reappear — like The Hound. Check it out, and get caught up on all the characters from the books who will finally turn up on the show [2].

Bran Stark

Last seen: On season four, finally finding his way to the Three-Eyed Raven.

Hodor

Last seen: On season four, carrying Bran to the Three-Eyed Raven.

Meera Reed

Last seen: On season four, mercifully cutting her brother Jojen's throat, who had been fatally wounded by the wights.

The Three-Eyed Raven

Last seen: On season four, cryptically talking to Bran in his cave. This season, he'll be played by Max von Sydow [3].

Yara Greyjoy

Last seen: On season four, attempting to rescue Theon, who insists he is Reek and belongs to Ramsay.

Edmure Tully

Last seen: On season three, being taken prisoner after marrying Walder Frey's daughter at the Red Wedding.

Brynden "Blackfish" Tully

Last seen: On season three, escaping the carnage of the Red Wedding.

Balon Greyjoy

Last seen: On season three, telling Yara that Theon is a lost cause after receiving a piece of his severed penis from Ramsay.

Thoros

Last seen: On season three, chatting with Melisandre about how the Lord of Light has brought him back from death six times.

Walder Frey

Last seen: On season three, toasting over the success of the Red Wedding.