Game of Thrones season 7 finale: Why Jon Snow is heir to the Iron Throne

Son of Rhaegar and Lyanna

Game of Thrones’ seventh season has, very quickly, come to an end, a few less main players still alive in Westeros.

**Spoilers for ‘The Dragon and the Wolf ‘below**

One game changing twist we learned towards the end of the finale was Jon Snow’s true claim to the Iron Throne. Really, the once-believed bastard’s no bastard at all, being the legitimate son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark.

So why does that make Jon “heir to the Iron Throne” as Bran explains after having a flashback? Well, Rhaegar was son Aerys Targaryen — better known as The Mad King.

When Rhaegar was killed by future King Robert Baratheon (believing Rhaegar to have captured his betrothed Lyanna against her will), everyone believed Viceroys — Daenerys and Rhaegar’s brother who we met during the first season — held the rightful claim to the Throne.

However, with the way Westeros works, the crown fell from Aerys to Rhaegar. From there, the Throne would fall to any of Rhaegar's sons. However, everyone believed The Mountain killed Rhaegar's only son, along with wife and daughter. Now we know Rhaegar has another lawful son, Jon, who’s actual name is Aegon Targaryen.

Come season eight, not only will the Stark learn that he just had sex with his aunt, but also that he’s the rightful heir to the Iron Throne.

For a further explanation on the story of Jon’s parents, click through to here. For more information on why the name Aegon Targaryen means so much for the story, foretelling the Prince that was Promised, read here.