Every season since, Simpson has received all episode scripts shortly into the production process.
When you read the scripts, you realize the importance of certain moments, Simpson tells EW.
You want a character to go out well.

HBO; Will Simpson/HBO
Im getting myself invested in the characters.
Each death is more horrific than the last, building up to Hodors tragic finale.
I didnt want it to look like he could escape, Simpson says.

Will Simpson/HBO
Weve seen that kind of thing in horror movies, but it was so important at this point.
And yet thats always been his destiny.

Will Simpson/HBO

Will Simpson/HBO

Will Simpson/HBO

Will Simpson/HBO

Will Simpson/HBO

Will Simpson/HBO

Will Simpson/HBO

Will Simpson/HBO

Will Simpson/HBO

Will Simpson/HBO

Will Simpson/HBO

Will Simpson/HBO

Will Simpson/HBO