"Game of Thrones" fans have the next three months to weasel the HBO Go log-in out of their friends and family. The fifth season will premiere on April 12.
HBO announced on Thursday the return date for the fantasy drama, which will be followed by new seasons of "Veep" and "Silicon Valley," according to TVLine.com. Season five of "Thrones" will adapt its story from the fourth and fifth novels ("A Feast for Crows" and "A Dance with Dragons") of George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series.
Fans will get their first official look at the upcoming season in IMAX theaters later this month. HBO will premiere the first trailer after screening two episodes from season four. So far, only short clips have leaked online.
"The cinematic brilliance and grand scope of the series is perfect for the IMAX format," Pamela Levine, chief marketing officer at HBO, said in a statement. "We are always looking to provide fans with new and exciting ways to experience the show and viewing two key episodes, along with the new trailer, on such an impressive platform makes for a great event."
HBO will be the first television network to feature their programming in an IMAX theater. The episodes will run in theaters for one week, starting on Jan. 23 through Jan. 29.
"IMAX always seeks innovative ways to provide moviegoers a unique and differentiated experience and today's partnership with HBO and 'Game of Thrones' achieves just that," said IMAX CEO Richard L. Gelfond. "This deal also furthers our efforts to offer exhibitors the opportunity to participate in alternative forms of content in a new and exciting way."
HBO also renewed "Real Time with Bill Maher" for an additional two seasons, keeping his show on through season 15.
"Game of Thrones" starts at 9 p.m. on Sunday, April 12 followed by "Veep" at 10 p.m. and "Silicon Valley" at 10:30 p.m.
