Scientists bring back direwolves to life, name one of them ‘Khaleesi’

In a groundbreaking scientific achievement, three direwolf puppies—Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi—have been successfully brought back to life after being extinct for over 10,000 years. This astonishing feat was accomplished by Colossal Biosciences, a Texas-based biotech company specializing in de-extinction. The direwolf, a species that once roamed North America, gained immense popularity through Game of Thrones, where it served as the sigil of House Stark. Now, thanks to genetic engineering, these legendary creatures are no longer confined to fiction.

Quick read:

• George R.R. Martin was deeply moved and cried upon seeing the direwolf puppies.
• The puppies—Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi—were inspired by Martin’s fantasy series.
• Colossal Biosciences successfully revived direwolves using ancient DNA

A Game of Thrones Connection

Direwolves became a cultural phenomenon after their appearance in Game of Thrones, based on George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series. In the show, the Stark children each raised a direwolf, symbolizing their strength and resilience. The revival of real direwolves has only deepened the connection between Martin’s fantasy world and reality. To celebrate their return, the puppies were photographed sitting atop the Iron Throne, a nod to their fictional counterparts. One of them, Khaleesi, was even named after Daenerys Targaryen, a beloved character from the series.

Credits: Colossal Biosciences

George R.R. Martin’s Emotional Reaction

Martin, who has long been fascinated by direwolves, was personally involved in the project as an investor and cultural advisor. When he met the puppies for the first time, he was overwhelmed with emotion. Colossal Biosciences co-founder Ben Lamm told CBR that Martin was moved to tears, calling it “one of the greatest things he’s ever seen”. The author’s deep connection to these creatures has made their revival even more meaningful, bridging the gap between fantasy and reality in an unprecedented way.

The birth of Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi marks a historic moment—not just for science, but for fans of Game of Thrones who have long admired these majestic beasts.

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04/19/2025 09:07 am GMT