The Roles That Got Away: Major Parts Emilia Clarke Almost Played in Hollywood

Emilia Clarke is a name synonymous with iconic performances and unforgettable characters. From her groundbreaking role as Daenerys Targaryen on Game of Thrones to her captivating presence in films like Me Before You and Last Christmas, Clarke has cemented her place as one of Hollywood’s brightest stars. But what if we told you that some major parts that could have further exploded her career almost slipped through her fingers? That’s right, behind the scenes, there were some seriously juicy roles Emilia Clarke was either considered for or chose to walk away from — and they might surprise you.

Let’s take a fascinating journey through the roles that got away, exploring the what-ifs and the choices that shaped Emilia Clarke’s Hollywood path.

1. Anastasia Steele in Fifty Shades of Grey — A No Thanks to Nude Scenes

One of the biggest roles that Clarke passed on was Anastasia Steele in the blockbuster-turned-culture phenomenon Fifty Shades of Grey. Fans might imagine Emilia in the brooding, captivating lead opposite Jamie Dornan, but the actress revealed she nixed the part due to a very personal reason: the film’s explicit nude scenes.

“I’m not comfortable showing everything on camera,” Clarke told Entertainment Weekly in a candid interview. “That was a boundary for me at that time in my career. It just didn’t feel like the right fit.”

Instead, Dakota Johnson eventually landed the role, and the Fifty Shades franchise took off in a way that arguably changed the landscape for romantic dramas in Hollywood. But imagine how different Emilia’s trajectory might have looked if she’d taken that leap!

2. Sharon Carter in Captain America: The Winter Soldier — A Marvel Near Miss

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has been a goldmine for actors looking to boost their global recognition, and Emilia was no exception. Rumor has it Clarke was in the running for the role of Sharon Carter in Captain America: The Winter Soldier. Although Emily VanCamp ultimately secured the part, it was a close call.

“It was an exciting time because joining Marvel means becoming part of something huge,” Emilia admitted in a recent roundtable discussion. “But every role teaches you something and leads you down a different path.”

Looking back, the role of Sharon Carter gave VanCamp a breakout platform in the MCU, with appearances stretching well beyond the initial film. Fans have debated endlessly whether Clarke’s star power could’ve brought a different flair to the character. What do you think?

3. The Enchantress in Suicide Squad — A Villainous Departure

In the world of DC Comics, Emilia Clarke was nearly cast as June Moone, AKA the Enchantress, in 2016’s Suicide Squad. The kite of chaos in the film was a complex, dark character, and Clarke seriously considered the role.

“It would have been such an amazing challenge to play someone so wild and unpredictable,” she reflected in a 2017 interview on her evolving choices. “But timing and timing is everything. It didn’t feel right.”

Ultimately, Cara Delevingne snagged the part. The Enchantress was divisive among fans and critics alike, but the potential for Emilia to dive into a gritty anti-hero role had fans buzzing at the time. Could this have been her first big foray into the superhero genre?

4. Harper Moore in Set It Up — Romantic Comedy Almost

Switching gears to a lighter genre, Clarke was also linked to the role of Harper Moore in Set It Up, the quirky rom-com that became a fan favorite on Netflix. The role eventually went to Zoey Deutch, but Emilia’s interest in rom-coms had already been on display thanks to her charming work in films like Me Before You.

“I love the energy of romantic comedies — the chemistry, the laughs, the heart,” Emilia has said. “I just wanted to find the right script and the right timing.”

The decision not to take the part perhaps speaks to her thoughtful approach to carefully selecting projects that resonate with her personally and professionally.

Why Do These ‘Almost’ Roles Matter?

These roles Clarke almost played aren’t just trivia — they offer a revealing glimpse into the actress’s career priorities and personal boundaries. From navigating Hollywood’s expectations to carving out a space where she feels authentic, Clarke’s choices demonstrate that success isn’t just about saying “yes” to every opportunity, but about knowing your limits and what stories you want to tell.

Moreover, it’s an invitation to reflect: How might Emilia Clarke’s career have looked with these pivotal roles added to her resume? Would the fantasy epic star of Game of Thrones have become a household name even sooner? Or would these different roles have taken her on an entirely separate journey?

Fans, Let’s Chat!

Now, we want to hear from YOU. Which of these “roles that got away” do you wish Emilia Clarke had taken? Could you see her absolutely slaying as Anastasia Steele, the Enchantress, or even Sharon Carter? Or do you think her chosen path has been perfect for her rise to stardom?

Drop your thoughts, favorite Emilia movie moments, and which dream role you hope she tackles next in the comments below. After all, with a talent like hers, the best is always yet to come.

Final Thoughts

Emilia Clarke’s Hollywood story is far from over, and her selective approach to each role only fuels anticipation for what comes next. Whether it’s fantasy, drama, romantic comedy, or superhero action, Emilia continues to prove she’s not just a one-dimensional star — she’s a chameleon who chooses roles that challenge and inspire her.

As viewers and fans, we get to cheer her on, celebrate the hits, and imagine the thrilling “what ifs” in between. No matter what, Emilia Clarke remains a powerhouse talent destined for even bigger moments — with or without the roles that got away.

Stay tuned — because the next chapter is bound to be just as captivating.