The second episode of HBO's highly anticipated Game of Thrones prequel, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, concluded this week with a poignant and unexpected tribute. As the credits rolled on the instalment titled Hard Salt Beef, a memorial title card appeared, honouring the memory of Aziza Barnes. This gesture left many viewers curious about the individual behind the name and their connection to the fantasy series.
Episode Two's Narrative and the Tribute Card
The episode itself followed the continuing adventures of Ser Duncan 'Dunk' the Tall, portrayed by Peter Claffey, as he navigated the Ashford tournament. Dunk's quest for knighthood hinged on finding someone who could vouch for his late mentor, Ser Arlan of Pennytree. Alongside him, the young Egg, played by Dexter Sol Ansell, eagerly served as his squire, their partnership blossoming amidst the jousting competitions. A subplot saw Dunk awkwardly attempting to court the puppeteer Tanselle too Tall, played by Tanzyn Crawford.
Following these narrative threads, the episode's conclusion featured the simple, respectful title card dedicated to Aziza Barnes, prompting widespread questions from the audience about their identity and role.
Who Was Aziza Barnes?
Aziza Danielle Bailey Barnes was a celebrated 32-year-old American poet, screenwriter, and playwright who identified as queer and used they/them pronouns. Their professional involvement with A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms was significant; Barnes served as a co-executive producer on the series and is credited as the writer of the Hard Salt Beef episode.
A Multifaceted Creative Career
Barnes's talent extended far beyond the world of Westeros. They contributed as a writer to other notable television projects including Teenage Bounty Hunters, Rap Sh!t, and the critically acclaimed FX series Snowfall. A native of Los Angeles, Barnes held a BFA from New York University and an MFA from the University of Mississippi.
Their literary prowess was well-established. Barnes published two full poetry collections: i be but i ain't in 2016 and the bling pig in 2019. Their theatrical work included the play BLKS, which premiered at Chicago's prestigious Steppenwolf Theatre in 2017. Barnes's voice resonated across numerous platforms, from performances at Button Poetry and Da Poetry Lounge to features on PBS News Hour.
They were also a co-host of the podcast The Poetry Gods with Jon Sands and José Olivarez and helped found The Conversation Literary Festival in 2015.
A Tragic Loss
In December 2024, Barnes died by suicide. Their family confirmed the tragic news through a representative to Deadline, releasing a heartfelt statement. It read, in part: "With heavy hearts, we regret to inform you of the passing of an undeniable and beloved artist, child, sibling, and friend Aziza 'Z' Barnes... An incomparable talent, we look for understanding in Z's words, and wish comfort and understanding as we grieve this loss."
At the time of their passing, Barnes was reportedly developing HBO adaptations of the novels Pride and The Vanishing. The tribute at the end of Hard Salt Beef serves as a fitting acknowledgement of their creative contribution to the series. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms airs on HBO on Sundays in the USA and on Mondays on NOW in the UK.
For confidential support, please call the Samaritans for free 24/7 on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
