Ranking Emilia Clarke’s Performances: From “Game of Thrones” to “Last Christmas”

Emilia Clarke is undeniably one of Hollywood’s brightest stars, evolving from a relatively unknown British actress into a global sensation. If you’re a fan of captivating performances and actress versatility, you’re in for a treat. Today, we’re diving deep into Emilia Clarke’s career, ranking her most memorable roles—from the fiery streets of Westeros in Game of Thrones to the romantic streets of London in Last Christmas. Whether you fell in love with her as Daenerys Targaryen or as quirky Kate in holiday rom-com territory, this ranking highlights how Clarke continues to redefine herself with each project.

1. Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones (2011–2019)

It’s impossible to discuss Emilia Clarke without starting with her iconic role as Daenerys Targaryen, arguably one of the most influential female characters of the 2010s. Clarke’s portrayal of the “Mother of Dragons” combined strength, vulnerability, and complexity like few have done before. From her chains-breaking breakout scene to her dragon-riding triumphs, Emilia captivated millions. She once shared in an interview, "Daenerys was this incredible journey about power, loss, and responsibility—it really pushed me as an actress.”

Her performance was a masterclass in character evolution over eight seasons. Fans will forever debate whether the show’s final season lived up to her monumental work, but no one can deny Clarke’s ability to hold the screen and bring Daenerys to life.

2. Louisa Clark in Me Before You (2016)

After conquering Westeros, Emilia transitioned to romantic drama with Me Before You. Playing Louisa Clark, a quirky and compassionate caregiver, Clarke showcased softer, more nuanced emotions. This role demonstrated her range—balancing humor, heartbreak, and hope all at once.

Her chemistry with Sam Claflin’s character was undeniable, earning the film a cherished spot among romance fans. Emilia admitted, “It was important to me to bring joy to Louisa, despite the story’s heavy themes. I wanted people to feel the light behind the sadness.” This performance proved she’s no one-trick pony, effortlessly moving from epic fantasy to emotional drama.

3. Kate in Last Christmas (2019)

Emilia Clarke’s charm lit up the screen again as Kate, a woman struggling through life but finding unexpected love in this heartwarming holiday flick. Last Christmas allowed Clarke to showcase her comedic timing and vulnerability wrapped in festive cheer.

Her ability to blend wit with emotional depth made Kate instantly relatable. Fans often comment on how Emilia brought authenticity to this role, with many saying it’s the perfect holiday movie antidote. Emilia confessed during promotional interviews, “Kate’s a mess sometimes, but she’s real, and that’s what I love about playing her.”

4. Qi'ra in Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)

Entering the Star Wars universe was a bold move, and Emilia Clarke embraced it with her role as Qi'ra, a complex character straddling loyalty and survival in a galaxy far, far away. Clarke's performance added layers to the narrative, bringing a darker, edgier energy that fans hadn’t expected.

Although Solo received mixed reviews, Emilia’s portrayal stood out, signaling her willingness to take risks. She said of the role, “I got to play a character who’s not just a love interest but someone with her own secrets and agenda—definitely a thrilling experience.” This role proves Clarke’s adaptability beyond romance and fantasy realms.

5. Sarah Connor in Terminator Genisys (2015)

Emilia took on a legendary role when she stepped into the shoes of Sarah Connor, a character previously defined by icons like Linda Hamilton. While her take on the Terminator franchise received mixed critical feedback, there’s no denying it was a stepping stone that challenged her to perform action-heavy sequences and explore grittier territory.

Though it might not be her standout role, it was a key moment in broadening her portfolio, showing fans she can handle intense sci-fi action as well as intimate drama.

The Journey of Emilia Clarke: From Westeros to Worldwide

Emilia Clarke’s career reads like an inspiring journey—from a breakthrough role that turned her into a household name to branching out into diverse genres that test her acting chops. She once reflected, “Every role is a chance to learn something new about myself and the craft. Whether I’m wielding dragons or just trying to make people smile, it’s about telling stories that connect.”

So, what’s your favorite Emilia Clarke moment? Is it Daenerys’s fiery throne-worthy scenes, Louisa’s heartfelt moments, or perhaps Qi'ra’s mysterious allure? Sound off in the comments and share your memories of watching this star rise! And as we await her next project, one thing’s clear: Emilia Clarke remains a chameleon of the screen, ready to surprise and delight her fans with whatever comes next.

Emilia Clarke’s top roles always generate buzz—so keep tuning in for the latest updates on this versatile actress’s career and much more celebrity news. Don’t forget to bookmark this article, share with fellow fans, and stay connected for more in-depth rankings and entertainment highlights!