Set Family Bonds: Emilia Clarke's Closest Friendships from Game of Thrones That Last a Lifetime
When you think of Game of Thrones, you probably picture fire-breathing dragons, epic battles, and the unforgettable rise of Daenerys Targaryen. But behind all the dragon fire and throne drama, one thing truly stood the test of time: the genuine friendships forged on set. Emilia Clarke, the fierce and beloved actress who brought Daenerys to life, isn’t just connected to her character — she’s bonded deeply with her castmates in a way that continues well beyond the series finale.
During the eight-year filming marathon (2010-2018), viewers witnessed Emilia’s remarkable transformation not just as an actress, but as a pillar of camaraderie on the Game of Thrones set. Her relationships with co-stars like Kit Harington (Jon Snow), Peter Dinklage (Tyrion Lannister), and more have become the stuff of Hollywood legend, proof that true connection can blossom even in the midst of a cutthroat fantasy drama.
From On-Screen Siblings to Real-Life Fam
Emilia Clarke’s friendship with Kit Harington is perhaps one of the most well-known Hollywood bromances — or in this case, sister-brother-momentum. Their characters’ complicated history on screen mirrored their off-screen closeness, making every emotional scene hit harder. But what really stands out is how Emilia and Kit’s relationship has grown into a lifelong bond. The two have been spotted multiple times supporting each other’s personal and professional journeys, sharing Instagram shout-outs and celebrating milestones like true family.
In interviews, Emilia often credits Kit as one of her biggest pillars during the exhausting years of filming. Their friendship is full of inside jokes, mutual respect, and a shared understanding of just how intense the Game of Thrones production schedule could be. Fans love seeing how these co-stars have transitioned into each other’s nearest and dearest beyond the Iron Throne.
The Charming Dynamic with Peter Dinklage
No discussion about Emilia Clarke’s closest Game of Thrones friendships would be complete without mentioning Peter Dinklage. Playing the fan-favorite Tyrion Lannister, Peter quickly became a dear friend to Emilia. Behind the scenes, their chemistry wasn’t limited to ideology and script lines; it extended to heartfelt support.
Peter, known for his wit and warmth, often helped lighten the mood during shoots, and Emilia was more than happy to reciprocate. Their banter and mutual admiration made their on-screen scenes shine brighter. Post-show, they’ve maintained their solid friendship, occasionally appearing together in interviews and charitable events, showing fans that their connection goes far beyond the small screen.
Bonding Moments That Melted the Ice
The gruelling eight-year shoot was packed with long days, complex scenes, and sometimes brutal weather conditions — all factors that made these bonds even stronger. Emilia has shared numerous anecdotes in press interviews about how she and her co-stars leaned on one another during early mornings to annoying call times, shared costume mishaps, and the pressures of staying in character for such an emotionally taxing series.
One of the cutest stories revolves around the time Emilia and Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark) would escape together to grab coffee or share snack breaks, carving out little moments of normalcy in a hectic schedule. These moments weren’t just about coping with work — they were about building a tight-knit family away from the camera.
Friendship That Endures Beyond Westeros
Even after the iron throne saga wrapped up in 2019, Emilia Clarke’s friendships from the set have remained steadfast. Whether it’s via social media shout-outs, collaborative projects, or simply checking in on each other’s health and happiness, Emilia’s set family remains intact. Her friendship with Kit Harington even flourished into a mentorship vibe, where the two support each other’s mental health journeys, openly discussing the challenges of fame and personal growth.
Fans adore witnessing these authentic relationships evolving over time, proving that sometimes the most captivating tales from Game of Thrones happen off-screen.
Why These Friendships Matter
In Hollywood, where relationships can often feel transactional, Emilia Clarke’s enduring friendships from Game of Thrones serve as a refreshing reminder of the power of genuine human connection. These bonds give fans a glimpse into the softer, realer side of one of television’s most high-profile series.
For those following Emilia’s post-Game of Thrones career — from her powerhouse roles in films like Me Before You to her advocacy work — it’s clear her support system from the show continues to be a bedrock. It’s these relationships that keep her grounded and inspired.
The Takeaway for Fans
If you’re a diehard Game of Thrones fan, you already know Emilia Clarke’s journey as Daenerys Targaryen is iconic. But the story of her off-screen family—her "set family"—adds an entirely new layer of warmth to the fandom. Their friendships humanize the epic saga, reminding us all that even in the world of dragons and battles, kindness, loyalty, and connection rule supreme.
Want more insider updates about your favorite stars and their unbreakable bonds? Stay tuned because Emilia Clarke’s heartwarming friendships are a fandom treasure that’s just getting started.
By: koalafriend
Your go-to source for celebrity friendships, Hollywood stories, and all things entertainment.
