Game of Thrones’ spinoff, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, set a fun fantasy trend, and a newly announced TV show is coming in to continue it. The prequel debuted in January 2026, and it took the world by storm not because it’s exactly like Game of Thrones but because of its intrinsic differences.
The world of Game of Thrones is vast and expansive. The narrative stretches farther than the eye can see. The action is heightened. The characters are absolutely insufferable for the most part, and their petty political squabbles have consequences not just for the characters involved but all of their kingdoms as well.
In contrast, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms might exist within the larger Game of Thrones world, but it focuses on a very narrow setting and story. It’s extremely grounded. The two main characters, Dunk and Egg, are absolutely lovable. There is still violence, much like Game of Thrones, but the tone is more humorous and less bleak. Though not everyone will describe it as “cozy,” I think the label fits perfectly.
In just one season, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms reinvigorates the cozy fantasy trend, which existed before but on a much smaller, less mainstream scale. Luckily, the trend is already expected to spread, as multiple shows fit that same bill. The most recent announcement is the animated adaptation of The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune.
The House In The Cerulean Sea Is The Most Recent Cozy Fantasy Adapation Announced
The House in the Cerulean Sea was picked up for an animated TV show just days ago, and we’re already excited (via The Wrap). The project is being made by Warner Bros. Animation, which has a great track record. No writers or showrunners have been announced, though that information will surely come sooner rather than later. Plus, the story is perfect for a TV show.
The book follows Linus Baker, a caseworker who helps magical kids. He’s sent to Marsyas Island Orphanage, an orphanage on a mysterious island said to harbor six dangerous kids. As Linus investigates the mysterious house, he uncovers major secrets.
The House in the Cerulean Sea has a premise that’s simultaneously high-stakes and low-stakes, featuring very boisterous characters, but it’s the ultimate cozy fantasy book, focusing on found family and overcoming our prejudices.
Half A Dozen Cozy Fantasy TV Shows & Movies Are On The Way
The cozy fantasy trend is only going to get bigger over the next few years. Of course, we have A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms season 2 and The House in the Cerulean Sea, which we have already discussed. Additionally, the book Piranesi is getting turned into a stop-motion animation film by the acclaimed studio Laika.
The Mighty Nein will return for season 2. This fantasy show is a lot like A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms in that it’s set in a high-stakes environment but focused on a small group of likable characters who feel like a family. There’s a coziness in their emotional connection and vulnerability. His Majesty’s Dragon is getting an onscreen adaptation, and the story manages to blend comforting, warm vibes with a military war. It’s quite the enigma. Also, The House of the Spirits will become a TV show in the coming months.
Why Cozy Fantasy Is So Appealing To Audiences
There’s a clear love for this kind of fantasy, which allows audiences to settle in, maybe even get a blanket and a snack. It offers escapism, warmth, and sometimes even hope in a world that’s increasingly chaotic and cruel. The slice-of-life moments in this genre require much less mental energy. It’s clear that the cozy fantasy trend is clearly here to stay. In a world where community is harder and harder to find, cozy fantasy emphasizes the value of found family.
The good news is that the trend hit books long before it reached the screen. As such, there are plenty of existing cozy fantasy stories that would be perfect for TV and movies. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms‘ success might just be the push that production companies need to start making more stories in this genre.
- Release Date
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January 18, 2026
- Network
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HBO
- Showrunner
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Ira Parker
- Directors
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Owen Harris
- Writers
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George R. R. Martin, Ira Parker
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Peter Claffey
Ser Duncan ‘Dunk’ the Tall
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