Emilia Clarke Says She ‘Still Can’t’ Watch House of the Dragon — Reveals Why in Exclusive Interview

Emilia Clarke, beloved for her iconic role as Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones, has once again spoken candidly about her reluctance to watch the Game of Thrones prequel series House of the Dragon. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE published June 16, 2024, Clarke, now 37, reiterated that she “still can’t” bring herself to watch the show, despite its critical acclaim and commercial success.

A Personal Boundary Rooted in Closure and Contentment

When asked about watching the House of the Dragon season two premiere—airing the same day as the interview—Clarke shared, “I feel so content and happy with what my experience was, that I think watching the new one would just feel so odd, I think.” This statement reflects a deep emotional satisfaction with her own journey on Game of Thrones (2011–2019), and an implied sense of closure that makes revisiting the world through a different era feel disconnected.

Though she declines to watch, Clarke is unequivocal in her support for the spinoff and its cast and crew. “I really do fully support the entire thing and everyone who’s made it, and it’s beautiful how successful it’s been. It’s absolutely amazing,” she told PEOPLE, affirming her goodwill toward the new series.

Consistent Reluctance Since 2023

Clarke’s avoidance of House of the Dragon is not a recent development. At the 2023 Sundance Film Festival, while promoting The Pod Generation, she told Variety, “It’s kind of like someone saying, ‘You want to go to this school reunion that’s not your year?’ That’s how it feels. I’m avoiding it.” This school reunion analogy poignantly captures her feeling of disconnection from the prequel’s cast and storyline, even as it explores the history of her character’s family.

Her stance remained steady through the year. A June 2023 post on X (@HQEmiliaClarke) celebrated seeing her “wig on everyone’s head” in House of the Dragon, yet she reiterated her reluctance to watch and mused about returning only if it were a sequel featuring her character. This ongoing sentiment demonstrates a thoughtful, personal boundary rather than a passing whim.

Why the Distance?

Clarke’s emotional attachment to her Game of Thrones experience runs deep. Reflecting in 2024, she explained, “When I started, you don’t know what you’re doing, you don’t know what you’re surrounded by and you don’t know what you’re taking part in. Now, as more and more time goes between it and me doing it, the more I’m like, that was incredibly special and that was incredibly rare.” This sense of something “incredibly rare” helps explain why watching a new chapter—set centuries earlier and featuring different characters—feels alien and unnecessary.

Fan and Industry Reactions

Clarke’s comments have sparked significant engagement online. A 2023 X post by @FilmUpdates garnered over 342,000 views, reflecting widespread interest in her perspective. Fans seem to appreciate her honesty and vulnerability, and the discussion highlights how actors sometimes emotionally detach from franchises that defined their careers.

Compared to other Game of Thrones alumni who have embraced House of the Dragon events and interviews, Clarke’s distance stands out. As she explores new career opportunities—including her recent role as global brand ambassador for Pegasus Distillerie—her focus is clearly shifting toward fresh endeavors.

Conclusion

Emilia Clarke’s decision to refrain from watching House of the Dragon reveals the complex relationship actors have with their defining roles and beloved franchises. For Clarke, the experience of playing Daenerys was a unique chapter—one she cherishes but feels complete—making the prequel feel like a school reunion invitation she’d rather politely decline. Yet her unwavering support for the series and its success shows that her bond with the Game of Thrones universe, while evolving, remains strong.