Emilia Clarke’s Inner Circle: The Famous Women She Calls Her True Friends

Emilia Clarke, beloved for her role as Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones, is not only known for her captivating performances but also for the strong, genuine friendships she has cultivated within the entertainment industry. While Clarke has an extensive career with numerous professional relationships, her personal connections with other famous women are noteworthy, demonstrating a deep camaraderie beyond the confines of the industry. Here’s a closer look at the famous women Emilia Clarke considers true friends, as revealed through interviews, social media posts, and public appearances.

Sophie Turner: A Strong Bond Built on Shared History

Sophie Turner, who portrayed Sansa Stark, has formed a solid friendship with Clarke, despite their characters’ minimal on-screen interactions. Clarke has spoken fondly about working with Turner, describing her experience as “lovely” in a 2019 interview with Bazaar.com. The two stars, who met during their time on Game of Thrones, have remained close friends ever since. Their friendship is often showcased in public appearances, and they are frequently seen together at events like weddings and other celebrations. Their connection is a testament to the enduring bonds formed on set, making their relationship one of the most cherished in the Game of Thrones cast.

Maisie Williams: Redefining Friendship Beyond the Screen

Maisie Williams, who played Arya Stark, is another of Clarke’s close friends from the Game of Thrones set. The pair were known to share fun and adventurous moments, as evidenced by their time together during filming. A 2016 Glamour article described Clarke and Williams as setting “#PartyGoals” during a filming break in Bilbao, Spain, showcasing their playful side. Their bond is further demonstrated in photos from various events, such as the 2016 BAFTA party in LA, where they were seen laughing and enjoying each other’s company. Their friendship, which has lasted well beyond the show’s conclusion, continues to be one of Clarke’s most cherished relationships.

Nathalie Emmanuel: From On-Screen Companions to Real-Life Friends

Nathalie Emmanuel, who played Missandei, Daenerys’s trusted advisor, shares a deep and lasting friendship with Clarke. Their on-screen connection as close allies in Game of Thrones translated seamlessly into their real-life bond. In a 2019 interview with People, Emmanuel described Clarke as “such a joy” and expressed how they “check in with each other every so often,” highlighting their supportive relationship. Their friendship is further solidified by their shared time off-set, such as when they were spotted strolling in Seville, Spain, during the filming of Game of Thrones. The two have supported each other through personal struggles, including Clarke’s health challenges, strengthening their emotional connection.

Lena Headey: A Warm and Supportive Rivalry

Though Lena Headey portrayed Cersei Lannister, Daenerys’s primary rival on Game of Thrones, the two actresses share a strong and supportive off-screen friendship. Headey’s heartfelt message to Clarke after she revealed her brain aneurysms in The New Yorker in 2019 is a clear example of the kindness and mutual respect they share. Headey called Clarke a “warrior” and praised her courage, a gesture that highlights their personal connection beyond their roles as enemies. The two stars also attended each other’s significant life events, including Headey’s wedding in 2022, where Clarke was present to show her support. Their friendship stands as a testament to the strong ties formed between cast members, even when playing opposite characters.

Rose Leslie: A Friendship That Blossomed After Game of Thrones

Rose Leslie, who played Ygritte, Jon Snow’s love interest, also shares a close friendship with Emilia Clarke. After their time on Game of Thrones, the two actresses found themselves vacationing together in India in 2019, a trip Clarke documented on Instagram, sharing moments of fun and relaxation with her friend. Clarke’s post about the trip, where she humorously referred to their shared adventures as “two gals buzzed off our faces on India, peace,” highlighted the carefree and close nature of their bond. Additionally, both actresses attended Kit Harington’s wedding in 2018, further reinforcing their connection. Their friendship is not only built on their shared history with Harington but also on mutual respect and understanding.

The Role of Friendship in Emilia Clarke’s Life

The close relationships that Clarke shares with these women—Turner, Williams, Emmanuel, Headey, and Leslie—speak to her value of genuine connections within the entertainment industry. These friendships are not just borne out of professional circumstances but are rooted in shared experiences, support during difficult times, and the joy of spending time together. Whether it’s showing up for each other at significant life moments or simply enjoying a vacation together, these women play a vital role in Clarke’s personal life.

Their friendships also reveal the importance of maintaining supportive relationships in an industry that can often be transactional. For Clarke, these women are more than just colleagues—they are real friends who have supported her through various stages of her career and life. Their continued interactions, both in public and private, highlight the true essence of friendship in a world where genuine connections are often hard to come by.

Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy of Friendship

Emilia Clarke’s relationships with these famous women underscore the importance of deep, meaningful friendships amidst the bright lights of Hollywood. Through shared experiences on and off the set of Game of Thrones, Clarke has forged bonds that will likely last a lifetime. As she continues to navigate her career, these friendships provide a sense of stability and emotional support, proving that in an often tumultuous industry, true friends are irreplaceable.