'Game of Thrones' Season Three Cast Revealed: What To Expect From The New Season [SLIDESHOW]

“Game of Thrones” is set to return for its third season on HBO March 31. While the show's marketeers have been rather guarded in divulging anything about the new season, they revealed on Friday the cast for the third season, giving some clues as to what fans should expect to see.

In doing so, HBO released photographs of the entire cast for the third season of “Game of Thrones.” Many fan-favorites will return, including the characters Tyrion Lannister, Jon Snow, Arya Stark, Bran Stark, Catelyn Stark, Robb Stark, and Daenerys Targaryen. Many not-so-fan-favorites will also return, including the characters Joffrey Baratheon, Cersei Lannister, Jaime Lannister, and Tywin Lannister. Also back will be important characters from the second season, including Brienne of Tarth, Margaery Tyrell, Melisandre, Stannis Baratheon, Talisa Maegyr, and Ygritte.

There is not too much to be gleaned from the cast photos. Daenerys looks to be commanding an army, while fans can get a glimpse of Tyrion's scars after his wounds have healed.

There are also plenty of new characters who will make their appearance throughout “Game of Thrones.” While his name has been constantly mentioned, Mance Rayder, played by Ciaran Hinds, will first appear during the third season. Fans saw a different Beric Dondarrion in the first season of “Game of Thrones.” That was just a quick cameo, and the character was recast, with Richard Dormer set to play the Lightning Lord.

Thoros, or Thoros of Myr, will make his debut in this season of “Game of Thrones.” Thoros was mentioned in the first season, as Eddard Stark ordered him to accompany Dondarrion as they looked for Gregor Clegane. Margaery's mother, Olenna Tyrell, will also make her debut in the third season.

Catelyn Stark's uncle, Brynden Tully, played by Clive Russell, will make his first appearance on the show this season. Tully is better known by his nickname The Blackfish. Finally, the twins, Jojen and Meera Reed, will appear in “Game of Thrones.” The Reed twins will be companions to Bran Stark.

It seems as though Hodor, Lord Varys, Petyr Baelish, Rickon Stark, Samwell Tarly, and Theon Greyjoy will not appear during the third season.