Despite what you or I may think of Game Of Thrones Season 8 (it sucked), it’s all finally over. However, it’s human nature to ponder about what could’ve been, or how it could’ve all been a lot better. Let’s forget about all that for now, and discuss the Night King.

Just like the Eye of Sauron in The Lord Of The Rings or Darth Vader in Star Wars, Game Of Thrones’ Night King is now ingrained in pop culture as a face and symbol of pure evil. His reputation may have been a bit tarnished by how pathetic he lost in the final season of the series, but he remains a popular antagonist figure even now.

Did you know that he could’ve looked a lot more menacing and memorable, instead of looking like an ice blue version of Star Wars’ Darth Maul?

Vanity Fair recently unearthed original concept art for the Night King, who looks very different than the Night King we all know. The original design features a much taller crown with what looks like long hair and a full beard, a decidedly royal and epic look that befits the apocalyptic myth of the Night King.

According to the book ‘The Art of Game of Thrones’ by Game of Thrones’ Emmy-winning Production Designer Deborah Riley, her team wasn’t provided with a reference, or even an actor to base the design on, so they had to create a “stand-in” character.

Prosthetic designer Barrie Gower then went on to create what we came to know as the Night King, as he was only given a note to make the design look “Regal” with “Familiar White Walker traits”.