Behind the Tears: Emilia Clarke Reveals Emotional Struggles During Intimate "Game of Thrones" Scenes
Emilia Clarke, beloved worldwide for her unforgettable portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen on HBO’s Game of Thrones, has opened up about a side of her iconic role that fans rarely saw: the intense emotional challenges she faced during the show’s intimate scenes. Known for her fierce and fiery character, Clarke’s recent candid revelations shed light on the vulnerability behind those steamy on-screen moments—especially her scenes with Jason Momoa, who played Khal Drogo.
In a heartfelt interview, Clarke revealed that filming some of Game of Thrones’ more explicit and intimate scenes was far more taxing than fans could imagine. “I’d literally start crying before some of those scenes,” she shared, giving fans an unprecedented glimpse into the emotional turbulence behind the throne. She admitted that when she first accepted the role, she didn’t fully grasp the level of nudity and explicit content that would be required. “I didn’t read ahead thoroughly enough,” Clarke confessed. “The scripts were packed, and the intimate parts? They hit me hard when I actually got there.”
For a show famed for its brutal and raw take on fantasy storytelling, nudity and adult scenes were headline staples, but Clarke’s experience underscored just how challenging navigating these moments can be, even for seasoned actors. While many remember Daenerys’s fierce speeches and dragon-riding prowess, Clarke’s bravery came through in a different way—she tackled these scenes with professionalism, despite the emotional strain they brought.
Her particularly intense scenes with Jason Momoa, who portrayed her powerful Khaleesi husband Khal Drogo, left an indelible mark on her. The two actors formed a close bond to help each other through the vulnerability required on set. “Jason was incredible,” Emilia recalled. “He instinctively understood when I needed support, and that made a real difference. These scenes aren’t just about acting—they’re about trust, safety, and emotional openness.”
Clarke’s revelations spark important conversations about the often unseen emotional labor actors endure, particularly women, during intimate filming. She emphasized the importance of support from cast and crew to navigate such complicated territory. “It’s okay to be vulnerable on set, and it’s crucial that productions create a safe space for that,” she said.
Looking back, Clarke reflects on how her journey with Game of Thrones was a rollercoaster, balancing the exhilaration of portraying one of TV’s most monumental roles with the challenges of unpredictable and sometimes uncomfortable scenes. But her honesty and strength behind the scenes have only deepened fans’ admiration for her.
For many viewers, this behind-the-scenes glimpse brings a new level of empathy for the iconic actress and the demands of starring in a global phenomenon like Game of Thrones. Emilia Clarke’s story reminds us that there’s often much more beneath the surface—both on and off the screen.
What do you think about Emilia’s emotional journey during those intense scenes? Were there moments on Game of Thrones that stuck with you because of their vulnerability? Share your thoughts and favorite Daenerys moments with us!
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