This incredible George R.R. Martin fan story will have you in tears
It seems that George R.R. Martin’s star couldn’t be shining any brighter than it is now, with what seems like the whole world – or at the very least, the whole internet – obsessed with what’s going to happen in the last season of Game of Thrones. However, a story about an encounter with the author, told by Dan Fogelman, the producer of the complex and beautiful “This Is Us”. Grab some tissues – it takes such a sad turn near the end that it requires a trigger warning for themes of illness.
Anyone want a quick personal story about George R. Martin/#GameofThrones?
— Dan Fogelman (@Dan_Fogelman) April 14, 2019
Dan painted a vivid picture.
Over a year ago a close buddy and I get to see Springsteen’s Broadway show. It’s a big deal for us. My buddy, Alex, gets there super early, because he’s excited, and calls me as I’m in a cab heading there.
— Dan Fogelman (@Dan_Fogelman) April 14, 2019
He’s talking a mile a minute. While waiting outside the theater, he has spotted George R. Martin. He says he’s going to go talk to him. I beg him not to. He hangs up on me.
— Dan Fogelman (@Dan_Fogelman) April 14, 2019
Now, a bit about Alex. He is larger than life. Handsome and charming as hell, with the best head of hair you’ve ever seen. He’s also obsessed w Game of Thrones like no one you’ve ever known. And he never listens to anyone so I just KNOW he’s going to go accost George R. Martin.
— Dan Fogelman (@Dan_Fogelman) April 14, 2019
He was correct.
I arrive at the theater. Alex is waiting, bursting with energy as always. He tells me he approached George. Got a picture. And, somehow – miraculously – got George R Martin’s cell phone number. George was with his wife and told Alex they usually go for pizza after a show.
— Dan Fogelman (@Dan_Fogelman) April 14, 2019
Alex says to him: “maybe we will join you.” Alex and I chuckle at his chutzpah.
— Dan Fogelman (@Dan_Fogelman) April 14, 2019
The encounter obviously played on Alex’ mind and he was determined to follow it up, much to Dan’s concern.
We see Springsteen. The entire show Alex is debating when to text George. I beg him to let it go. I know George will never reply and Alex will he disappointed.
— Dan Fogelman (@Dan_Fogelman) April 14, 2019
The Springsteen show ends. It’s amazing. Alex, as I knew he would, immediately texts George. And to my absolute shock… George R Martin writes Alex back! He tells us to meet them at a local pizza joint.
— Dan Fogelman (@Dan_Fogelman) April 14, 2019
Alex and I go. I’m convinced it’s going to end badly. A weird miscommunication. We are going to get ghosted. At least it will be a funny story. And then…
George and his lovely wife arrive.
— Dan Fogelman (@Dan_Fogelman) April 14, 2019