Why Emilia Clarke Was Skeptical About ‘Last Christmas’ and How It Became a Hit

When Last Christmas hit theaters in November 2019, it brought with it a blend of holiday charm, heartfelt romance, and a twist that took many viewers by surprise. Directed by Paul Feig and written by Bryony Kimmings and Emma Thompson, the film paired Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding in a story inspired by Wham!’s classic holiday tune of the same name. The movie also featured a star-studded cast that included Emma Thompson and Michelle Yeoh, all set against a backdrop of George Michael’s beloved music. But while the film ultimately became a seasonal favorite and a financial success, Emilia Clarke herself was initially skeptical about the project—particularly its unexpected emotional depth and how audiences might react.

Emilia Clarke’s Early Concerns

Clarke’s reservations about Last Christmas seem to have stemmed from her reaction to the script’s ending. In interviews, she described the film’s conclusion as “profoundly heartbreaking” and noted that she hadn’t anticipated the emotional impact it would have. “I didn’t twig it before. I had no idea,” Clarke told Vogue, adding that the film was “a rom-com for the self.” This description suggests that Last Christmas was not a conventional romantic comedy, and its emotional complexity made Clarke wonder if it would meet audience expectations for a lighthearted holiday film.

Another factor that fed Clarke’s skepticism was the spoiler culture surrounding the film. She expressed frustration that some viewers had guessed the twist long before seeing the movie, which might have added to her uncertainty about how it would be received. While Clarke never directly stated that she doubted the film’s success, her comments point to early concerns about balancing its poignant themes with the bubbly rom-com atmosphere that the marketing promised.

How Last Christmas Defied Expectations

Despite Clarke’s initial doubts, Last Christmas proved to be a financial hit, grossing over $121 million worldwide on a modest $25–30 million budget. It earned $35.2 million in the U.S. and Canada and $86.4 million in other territories, showing that audiences were drawn to its unique blend of holiday spirit and unexpected depth. Several key factors contributed to this success:

1. The Music of George Michael:
   The film’s soundtrack, featuring Wham! hits and previously unreleased George Michael tracks, added a nostalgic layer that resonated with fans. The soundtrack’s strong chart performance—debuting at number one on the UK Official Soundtrack Albums Chart—highlighted its importance in attracting viewers. The music wasn’t just a backdrop; it was a cultural touchstone that drew in audiences who had fond memories of Michael’s work.

2. Star Power and Chemistry:
   Emilia Clarke, beloved for her role as Daenerys Targaryen on Game of Thrones, and Henry Golding, who charmed audiences in Crazy Rich Asians, brought significant star appeal. Their on-screen chemistry received praise, even from critics who gave mixed reviews to the film overall.

3. Holiday Timing:
   Released in mid-November, Last Christmas capitalized on the start of the holiday season, positioning itself as a feel-good rom-com that families and couples could enjoy together. Its initial box office numbers—finishing first in the UK upon release—reflected a strong interest from viewers eager for festive fare.

The Power of Nostalgia and Music

One of the most unexpected elements of Last Christmas’s success was the way the soundtrack transcended the film itself. Featuring beloved George Michael hits, the music evoked powerful emotions and nostalgia, connecting with audiences on a deeper level. The inclusion of previously unheard tracks gave fans a reason to engage with the film, even if they were initially drawn to it more for the music than the storyline. This unique feature allowed the movie to stand out from other romantic comedies and seasonal releases.

A Financial Success Amid Mixed Reviews

Critics had varying reactions to Last Christmas, with some describing it as an “overstuffed turkey” and others embracing it as a “beautiful disaster.” Despite this divide, the movie’s financial success and enduring popularity as a holiday rom-com proved that it struck a chord with audiences. Its blend of heartfelt drama, festive charm, and a killer soundtrack ultimately outweighed any doubts surrounding the project.

Conclusion

Although Emilia Clarke initially approached Last Christmas with skepticism—largely due to the film’s emotional twist and potential misalignment with traditional rom-com expectations—she ultimately starred in a movie that resonated with audiences around the globe. By leveraging the music of George Michael, delivering a touching yet unexpected story, and leaning into the holiday spirit, Last Christmas defied early doubts to become a seasonal classic. It’s a testament to the power of nostalgia, timing, and a little festive magic.