She Grew Up on Dragons—But These Stars Lit Emilia Clarke’s Childhood First

Long before she became the indomitable Daenerys Targaryen on Game of Thrones, Emilia Clarke was, like many children, glued to the television and cinema screens—enchanted by a cast of larger-than-life personalities. While Clarke has always kept much of her personal life private, a careful look at her interviews and favorite childhood shows gives fans a revealing peek into the actors she adored growing up.

Will Smith: The Fresh Prince’s Reign

Among Clarke’s fondest TV memories is The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, the iconic ‘90s sitcom starring Will Smith as a streetwise Philadelphia teen sent to live with wealthy relatives in California. Smith’s charisma, humor, and effortless likability resonated with millions, Clarke included. The show’s air dates (1990–1996) align perfectly with her formative years, making it easy to see why Will Smith became one of her early screen idols. His blend of comic timing and heartfelt moments made a lasting impression on a young Clarke—one that would shape her own appreciation for performances that balance vulnerability with fun.

Arnold Schwarzenegger: From Reluctant Viewer to Superfan

Clarke’s relationship with the Terminator franchise is more than just cinematic fate—it’s a story of childhood discovery. Initially hesitant to watch the first Terminator movie, Clarke quickly became hooked after seeing Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991), forever associating Arnold Schwarzenegger’s unstoppable action-hero persona with the magic of movies. The bond would come full circle years later when Clarke starred opposite Schwarzenegger in Terminator Genisys (2015), a testament to the enduring influence of her childhood heroes.

Other Influences: Sitcoms and Silver Screen Stars

Clarke’s nostalgia for ‘90s classics extends to shows like Saved by the Bell and Sister, Sister, both beloved staples of her youth. While she’s never singled out specific actors from these ensembles, her affection for these series suggests a fondness for their casts, including Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Elizabeth Berkley, and twin stars Tia and Tamera Mowry. Her love for the film Clueless hints at possible admiration for Alicia Silverstone, though Clarke hasn’t explicitly confirmed this.

The Takeaway: Inspiration Rooted in Joy

While Emilia Clarke’s direct statements about her childhood favorites are rare, the evidence paints a clear picture: She found inspiration in the effervescent energy of Will Smith and the heroic bravado of Arnold Schwarzenegger. These stars, along with the colorful ensembles of ‘90s TV and film, helped nurture the dreamer who would one day become a queen on screen. For Clarke, as for so many, the actors she loved as a child left a legacy of laughter, awe, and cinematic escape—an influence she now pays forward to a new generation of fans.