It’s long been accepted that HBO’s Game of Thrones would end at seven seasons. Not only does that mirror the number of books in the parent franchise, but it’s also how far show runners David Benioff and Dan Weiss are willing to go.

However the show has become such a cash cow for HBO and a beloved cult classic that the network is reluctant to let go of it. They are looking at adding one final, eighth season, or even possibly a prequel season.

According to the Wrap:

HBO programming president Michael Lombardo predicted Thursday that the Emmy-winning fantasy series will likely end after its eighth season.

“Obviously we’re shooting season six now, hopefully discussing seven,” Lombardo said Thursday at the Television Critics Association summer press tour. He indicated that the final word on when to end the series will rest with showrunners David Benioff and D.B. Weiss. “I think their feeling is we’re looking at two more seasons after six. I’m hoping they’ll change their minds, but that’s what we’re looking at right now.”

Season 5 of “Game of Thrones ended in June. The show is nominated for eight Primetime Emmy awards, including best drama series. Asked whether the network would be open to a prequel, Lombardo again deferred to Benioff and Weiss.

“I’m open to anything Dan and David would want to do [with Game of Thrones],” he said, adding, “but no conversations yet.”