Tyrion Lannister was often hailed as the most humorous character in the hit series Game of Thrones. His quick wit and clever insults endeared him to fans, earning actor Peter Dinklage four Emmy awards for his performance. Despite being a tragic figure, Tyrion's popularity stemmed from his ability to find humor, even in the darkest of situations. One of his most memorable jokes involved a jackass and a honeycomb in a brothel. However, the punchline was never revealed, leaving fans eager for closure.
Throughout the series, Game of Thrones featured recurring jokes, such as Podrick Payne's surprising prowess in the bedroom and Tormund Giantsbane's infatuation with Brienne of Tarth.
However, Tyrion's unfinished joke remained one of the most amusing and elusive gags. The setup, "I once brought a jackass and a honeycomb into a brothel," was mentioned multiple times, but the punchline was never revealed. This only fueled the demand for the conclusion of Tyrion's joke.
In the first instance, Tyrion mentioned the joke during his "confession" in the Eyrie in season 1. However, he was interrupted before delivering the punchline, leaving the audience in suspense. The setup resurfaced in season 6, when Tyrion was attempting to teach Missandei and Grey Worm the art of drinking and telling jokes.
Sadly, he was once again interrupted and robbed of the punchline, this time by attackers. The final mention of Tyrion's joke came in the series finale, during a Small Council meeting. Tyrion began the setup but was interrupted once again, marking his last line in the show.
Despite the unfinished nature of the joke, fans have speculated about its punchline. One popular theory, proposed by a Reddit user, suggests the following ending: Tyrion visits a brothel with a honeycomb and a jackass. When asked why he carries these peculiar items, Tyrion explains that his lover had been granted three wishes by a genie.
As a result, she received a queen-worthy house, the finest donkey in the land, and a request for Tyrion's male anatomy to hang down below his knees. The joke showcases Tyrion's bawdy sense of humor, wit, and self-deprecation, making it a fitting conclusion.
Interestingly, each retelling of the joke throughout the series reveals something about Tyrion's mental and emotional state. Initially, as a prisoner in the Eyrie, his arrogance and bitterness shine through. In Meereen, after joining Daenerys' council, Tyrion appears lively and hopeful. However, an interruption during his joke foreshadows the errors he later makes.
Finally, as Hand to King Bran, Tyrion's delivery displays hesitancy but also reflects his enduring playfulness.
Tyrion's unfinished joke is just one of many lingering questions from Game of Thrones. While some plotlines were resolved, others remain unanswered. For example, the purpose of the Night's Watch is unclear following the defeat of the Night King and his army. Drogon's destination with Daenerys' body is also left unknown. However, like Arya Stark's quest to explore what lies west of Westeros, some mysteries are intentionally left to the imagination, and Tyrion's joke is among them.
In conclusion, Tyrion Lannister's favorite joke in Game of Thrones remains unfinished, leaving fans amused and yearning for closure.
Despite his tragic circumstances, Tyrion's humor and wit endeared him to viewers. While speculation surrounding the punchline continues, the joke's enduring popularity reflects Tyrion's ability to find laughter even in the face of danger. Game of Thrones may have left many questions unanswered, but Tyrion's joke is a fitting and enjoyable mystery best left to the imagination.