The wildly popular Game of Thrones panel at SDCC 2012 did not disappoint, even if fan-favorite Kit Harrinton couldn’t make it out to the show. Fans packed the panel, excited to hear news and find out what is in store for season 3.

Look for many new faces in season 3. Fourteen to be exact. Brynden Tully, “The Black Fish” will be played by Clive Russell. Diana Rigg will take on the role of Lady Olenna Tyrell. Mackenzie Crook will be playing a Wildling skinchanger named Orell; and 11, yes, 11 others. The Reed Siblings finally have faces, Thomas Brodie-Sangster will play Jojen and Ellie Kendrick has been cast as Meera. Other roles filled include the mysterious Qyburn (Anton Lesser), Edmure Tully (Tobias Menzies),  Shireen Baratheon (Kerry Ingram), Thoros (Paul Kaye), Selyse Baratheon (Tara Fitzgerald ), Beric Dondarrion (Richard Dormer) and Missande (Nathalie Emannuel).

One of the big unanswered questions last season is what will happen to Theon Greyjoy. If you’ve read the books, you know this character’s story. The show has taken many liberties though and you cannot assume who will live and who will die. Martin teased fans though, with a favorite House Greyjoy quote, that “What is dead may never die.” I for one am excited to see if they bring his journey to life in the series.

We can expect to see further development of Daenerys’ character in season 3. Season 2 brought us a better understanding of what this young woman will do for her people and her dragons. Next season, we will see just what she is capable of.

The cast spoke a lot about their roles and how the show has changed their daily lives. Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen) shared a story about how she was out shopping and a lady said khaleesi to her in hushed tones. Even outside of her costume, she is now recognized as the Mother of Dragons on the street.

Richard Madden (Rob Stark) said he prefers cutting people down to the more intimate scenes on the show.

Creator George R. R. Martin shared that the next season will be filmed in Scotland, Ireland and Iceland.

The panel wrapped with a very short teaser for Season 3. The fans erupted in cheer.

Season 3 will premiere on March 31, 2013 on HBO.