HBO's 'Game of Thrones' Returns

The highly anticipated HBO drama “Game of Thrones” returns Sunday with many unanswered questions. One in particular strikes a chord to many fans of the show.

Is Jon Snow dead?

The series has generated millions of followers both domestically and abroad due to its political intrigue mixed with sex and violence. And let’s not forget that it has dragons, too.

In an interview with the FOX Business Network’s “Varney and Co.”, Blastr.com Contributing Editor Mike Avila discussed the show’s success and the reasons behind its increasing popularity.

“Internationally, I think this is the biggest show on television right now,” Avila told host Stuart Varney. “It’s easily HBO’s most successful series ever.”

Avila says “Game of Thrones” has become bigger than its culturally influential predecessors such as “The Sopranos” and “Sex and the City.”

“The show travels well. It airs in 170 countries. It also has the dubious honor of being the most pirated show in the world several years running now because of how popular the show has become," Avila said.

Part of the mania surrounding “Game of Thrones” is demonstrated through the show’s merchandising power. Avila says HBO can’t sell enough of the show’s replica crowns, goblets and other merchandise, a testament to its popularity.