Emilia Clarke Biography
Emilia Isobel Euphemia Rose Clarke was born on October 23, 1986, in London, England. After training at Drama Centre London, she was cast as Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones (2011) — a role that would span 8 seasons and bring her global fame. What the world didn't know was that she suffered a life-threatening brain aneurysm in 2011 after the first season, and a second in 2013. She recovered both times and continued filming, and later spoke publicly about her experience to raise awareness for brain injury recovery.
Personal Life
Who are Emilia Clarke's parents?
Jenny Clarke, Peter Clarke
Did Emilia Clarke have siblings?
Yes — Bennett Clarke.
Was Emilia Clarke married?
Emilia Clarke was never married.
Did Emilia Clarke have children?
Emilia Clarke had no children.
What religion was Emilia Clarke?
Emilia Clarke was N/A.
What was Emilia Clarke's ethnicity?
Emilia Clarke was of English heritage.
Career Highlights
Movies
- Me Before You (2016)
- Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
- Above Suspicion (2019)
- Last Christmas (2019)
- Secret Invasion (2023)
TV Shows
- Game of Thrones (2011–2019)
- Secret Invasion (2023)
Awards
- 4× Emmy nomination — Outstanding Supporting Actress, Game of Thrones (2012, 2013, 2016, 2019)
- Screen Actors Guild nomination — Outstanding Drama Ensemble (Game of Thrones)
- Critics Choice Award nomination — Best Supporting Actress, Game of Thrones
Facts About Emilia Clarke
- Suffered two life-threatening brain aneurysms while filming Game of Thrones — the first in 2011 after filming season 1, the second in 2013 during season 3 filming
- Co-founded SameYou, a charity for people recovering from brain injuries, inspired by her own experience
- Received four Emmy nominations for playing Daenerys Targaryen across 8 seasons of Game of Thrones
- Was nearly replaced as Daenerys after the first aneurysm but recovered and returned to filming
- Naturally brunette — her iconic silver Targaryen hair was a wig throughout all of Game of Thrones
Emilia Clarke Quotes
"I have moments where I'm terrified, and moments where I feel completely safe and strong. I try to hold on to the strong moments."
"You can't give up. You have to fight. Whether it's for a job or for your life."
Legacy
Emilia Clarke's Daenerys Targaryen is one of the most iconic television characters of the 21st century. Her personal story of surviving two brain aneurysms while playing one of TV's most powerful roles is an extraordinary testament to resilience.
Sources
Last verified: 2026-06-15