'Game of Thrones' spinoffs are coming: HBO developing four potential projects

A Game of Thrones spinoff -- or four -- could be closer than we think.

Mashable has confirmed that HBO has closed deals with four writers "to each explore different time periods of George R. R. Martin's vast and rich universe," per a spokesperson from the premium cable network.

The four writers are Max Borenstein (writer of monster pics Godzilla and Kong: Skull Island), Jane Goldman (who penned X-Men: First Class, Kingsmen: The Secret Service and its upcoming sequel), Brian Helgeland (writer of LA Confidential, A Knight's Tale and Mystic River) and Carly Wray (Mad Men and The Leftovers). Goldman and Wray will each be individually collaborating with Game of Thrones author George R. R. Martin on their projects.

The HBO statement adds, "There is no set timetable for these projects.  We'll take as much or as little time as the writers need and, as with all our development, we will evaluate what we have when the scripts are in."

Game of Thrones showrunners Dan Weiss and David Benioff will not be involved in the development of the potential projects, as they're currently finishing up the seventh season and "are already in the midst of writing and preparing for the eighth and final season," per HBO. 

"We have kept them up to date on our plans and they will be attached, along with George R. R. Martin, as executive producers on all projects. We will support them as they take a much deserved break from writing about Westeros once the final season is complete."

What could a potential Game of Thrones spinoff be about? We've already got five prequel and sequel ideas, if the writers need any help.