In an announcement on Twitter early this morning, ‘Game of Thrones’ is slated to return to HBO for its second season on April 1, 2012. This announcement comes after the teaser trailer for “Cold Winds are Rising” was released before the season finale of ‘Boardwalk Empire’. So far with Season 2 we have had several additions to the cast, including Carice van Houten as Melisandre of Asshai, Patrick Malahide as Balon Greyjoy and Rose Leslie as Ygritte. You can check out our Ultimate Casting List . Notably absent are the Reed’s, which is very possible their story is not brought to us until Season 3.

Gearing up for Season 2? Check out these production videos, followed by the trailer. Season 2 looks pretty amazing so far!