by In the fantastical world of Westeros, where dragons soar and intrigue abounds, Game of Thrones gifted us with memorable characters and captivating storylines. One such character, Daenerys Targaryen, portrayed by the talented Emilia Clarke, underwent a transformative journey on-screen. However, behind the scenes, Clarke grappled with a range of emotions, especially before filming intimate scenes with co-star Jason Momoa. In an emotionally charged revelation on the Dopey Podcast, Clarke shared the real reason tears would well up before these steamy moments. It wasn’t about discomfort with Momoa; rather, it was a complex interplay of factors that unfolded in her early days as an actor.
- Feeling Unprepared:
Emilia Clarke’s journey into the world of acting was a whirlwind, and landing the role of Daenerys Targaryen thrust her into uncharted territory. Admitting to feeling “incredibly naive” about the demands of the role, Clarke found herself facing explicit scenes that she hadn’t anticipated. The unfamiliar terrain and the pressure of embodying such a pivotal character contributed to her emotional vulnerability.
- Pressure of the Role:
Daenerys Targaryen, the Mother of Dragons, is a character of immense complexity and power. Clarke, in her early acting days, grappled with the weight of portraying such an iconic figure. The pressure to do justice to the character, combined with her relative inexperience, intensified the emotional toll she experienced before shooting intimate scenes.
- Imposter Syndrome:
Clarke has been candid about her struggles with imposter syndrome – a pervasive feeling of being a fraud or undeserving of success. The challenges of filming explicit scenes for a globally acclaimed series likely exacerbated these feelings, creating a sense of unease and insecurity.
Supportive Environment:
Despite the emotional hurdles, Clarke credits Jason Momoa with creating a safe and comfortable environment on set. Momoa’s understanding and support played a crucial role in helping Clarke navigate the challenges posed by intimate scenes. Clarke also commended the show’s intimacy coordinator, emphasizing the importance of their role in ensuring scenes were filmed with respect and professionalism.
Additional Insights from the Interview:
- Relief After Filming: Clarke revealed that, at times, she would cry “tears of relief” after filming intimate scenes, expressing gratitude that the challenging moments were behind her.
- Humor to Ease Tension: To alleviate the tension surrounding these intense scenes, Clarke and Momoa would often joke around, injecting humor into the situation. This lighthearted approach helped create a more relaxed atmosphere on set.
- Advocacy for Actors’ Rights: Clarke’s personal journey has transformed her into an advocate for actors’ rights, prompting her to speak out about the importance of having intimacy coordinators on set. Her advocacy underscores the need for a supportive and professional environment for actors engaged in intimate scenes.
Conclusion:
Emilia Clarke’s revelation about shedding tears before filming steamy scenes provides a poignant glimpse into the emotional complexities actors may face, even in the realm of fantasy. As we revisit the Game of Thrones saga, it’s essential to appreciate the vulnerability behind the characters and acknowledge the transformative journey Clarke underwent both on and off-screen. Her story serves as a testament to the resilience of actors and the significance of fostering a supportive and respectful environment in the entertainment industry.
