In a fatal display of honor over pragmatism, Ned confronts Cersei, giving her the chance to flee before he reveals the truth. This backfires spectacularly. When King Robert dies, Ned attempts to install the rightful heir, Stannis Baratheon, but is betrayed by Littlefinger (Petyr Baelish) and the City Watch. He is arrested and imprisoned in the dungeons of the Red Keep.
So if you just watched this episode and feel stunned… welcome to Game of Thrones . which episode did ned stark die
Ser Ilyn Payne, the King’s Justice, performed the deed using Ned’s own Valyrian steel greatsword, Ice . In a fatal display of honor over pragmatism,
Ned is forced to his knees before the crowd. In a poignant moment, he spots Arya in the crowd. He whispers a prayer to the old gods, asking them to look after his son Robb and his wife Catelyn, and finally, "and the girl. I want her to know I’m not afraid." He is arrested and imprisoned in the dungeons
As the crowd roars, Ser Ilyn Payne, the King's Justice, steps forward with Ned’s own Valyrian steel sword, Ice. Ned looks toward Arya one last time before the sword is raised.