Game of Thrones will end after its eighth season, broadcaster HBO has said.

Casey Bloys, the US cable network’s new programming president, talked about a conclusion to the fantasy epic on Saturday. He also mentioned a possible spin-off during HBO’s panel at the Television Critics Association press tour.

Executive producers David Benioff and DB Weiss have previously hinted that the international phenomenon is drawing to a close.

HBO recently renewed Game of Thrones for a shortened seventh season of seven episodes, instead of the usual 10. The penultimate season will be broadcast a little later in summer next year.

The eighth and final season is expected to follow in 2018.

Earlier this month, Game of Thrones picked up 23 Emmy nominations, the most of any show recognised with a nod.

Adapted from George R.R. Martin's novels, the series stars Peter Dinklage, Lena Headey, Liam Cunningham, Emilia Clarke and Kit Harington, among others.

The cast and crew are set to return to Iceland for filming for the upcoming series, as well as Spain and Northern Ireland.

PA