Beyond the Dragon: 9 Things About Emilia Clarke That Will Change How You See Her

Emilia Clarke has long been recognized for her role as Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones, but her journey from a determined actress to an influential advocate and resilient survivor is one that continues to challenge the assumptions of even her harshest critics. From overcoming life-threatening health challenges to championing charitable causes, here are nine aspects of Clarke’s life and career that give her detractors pause.

1. A Humble and Determined Beginning

Before her rise to fame, Clarke lived a life far removed from the glamorous world of Hollywood. Born in London and raised in Oxfordshire, she was deeply influenced by her father, a theatre sound engineer. Clarke’s passion for acting ignited at just three years old during a Show Boat performance. To support herself during her studies at Drama Centre London, she worked six regular jobs, a testament to her work ethic and commitment to her craft. This down-to-earth background sharply contrasts with perceptions of celebrity privilege, highlighting her determination and resilience in a tough industry.

2. Resilience: Surviving Brain Aneurysms

Clarke’s strength goes beyond her professional accomplishments—her personal life has been marked by extraordinary resilience. In 2011, at the age of 24, she suffered a subarachnoid hemorrhage, a life-threatening brain aneurysm. Despite the gravity of the situation—one-third of SAH patients die immediately—Clarke underwent urgent surgery and returned to work shortly after, pushing through the immense physical and emotional challenges. She kept her medical battle private for years, fearing stigma. Her strength in overcoming not one, but two life-threatening aneurysms, has redefined how many see her, offering a deeper, more profound perspective on her career and life.

3. Charitable Contributions and Advocacy

Clarke’s commitment to philanthropy speaks volumes about her character. In 2019, she co-founded SameYou, a charity aimed at expanding neurorehabilitation for young brain injury survivors. She’s raised substantial funds for various causes, including £200,000 through a livestream event with Jacksepticeye and £250,000 for SameYou’s COVID-19 fund. Clarke has also used her platform to advocate for gender equality and nursing investment, contributing significantly to causes like the Royal College of Nursing and Time’s Up. Her philanthropic efforts paint her as someone who values giving back, challenging the notion that celebrities are solely self-interested.

4. Professional Achievements and Acting Talent

Emilia Clarke’s acting credentials speak for themselves. Despite early criticism of her acting abilities, Clarke has earned critical acclaim and multiple award nominations. She received four Primetime Emmy nominations for Game of Thrones and won the 2018 BAFTA Britannia Award for British Artist of the Year. She has appeared in major films such as Terminator: Genisys, Solo: A Star Wars Story, and the 2023 Marvel series Secret Invasion. Clarke’s Broadway debut as Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s was met with praise, as was her role in Chekhov’s The Seagull. Her diverse roles and consistent recognition suggest that her acting talent, often dismissed by detractors, is more nuanced than it may initially appear.

5. Breaking Gender Stereotypes in Hollywood

Clarke has been an outspoken advocate for gender equality in the entertainment industry. In interviews, she has critiqued the reductive question of “playing strong women” in films, pointing out that male actors are rarely asked similar questions. She believes in shifting the conversation away from simply labeling female characters as “strong” and instead focusing on their depth and power. Her advocacy for more complex, multifaceted female roles is a direct challenge to the industry’s often limited portrayal of women, demanding better representation and more thoughtful portrayals of female leads.

6. Her Own Comic Book: M.O.M.: Mother of Madness

In 2021, Clarke ventured into the world of comics, co-writing M.O.M.: Mother of Madness with Marguerite Bennett. The comic book, which revolves around a superhero tackling issues such as menstruation and female empowerment, is yet another example of Clarke’s desire to challenge societal taboos and create space for important conversations. The series was widely praised for sparking dialogue on women’s issues, showcasing Clarke’s versatility and her commitment to addressing real-world topics through entertainment.

7. A Recognized Cultural Figure

Clarke’s influence extends beyond the screen. In 2019, she was named one of Time’s 100 most influential people, a recognition that underscores her impact on both the entertainment industry and society at large. As an ambassador for several major causes and a role model for resilience, her influence reaches far beyond the roles she plays, shifting perceptions of her from a popular TV star to a globally recognized cultural figure.

8. Endurance and Growth After Game of Thrones

While Game of Thrones might have been the launchpad for her career, Clarke has skillfully transitioned into other major projects, each showcasing a different facet of her talent. In addition to her work in Star Wars and Marvel, she’s taken on roles that challenge her, including her Broadway performances and involvement in high-profile film projects. This ability to continue growing and diversifying her career proves her staying power, leaving critics who doubted her early on to reconsider their views.

9. A Loyal and Supportive Fanbase

Emilia Clarke has built a deeply loyal fanbase that sees her not just as a talented actress, but as a relatable and compassionate figure. From her personal battles with health to her tireless charity work, her fans are deeply invested in her journey, supporting her through her ups and downs. This bond with her audience helps to counter the criticisms she faces, as her fans champion her authenticity and vulnerability, qualities that make her relatable to many.

Conclusion

Emilia Clarke’s journey from a hard-working aspiring actress to one of Hollywood’s most admired and resilient stars is a story that challenges common stereotypes about celebrity privilege and talent. Whether it’s overcoming life-threatening health challenges, advocating for change, or excelling in a variety of roles, Clarke has proven time and again that she is much more than her on-screen persona. For her detractors, these nine aspects of her life might just be the reminder needed to rethink their judgments and appreciate the depth and strength of this extraordinary woman.