Star of HBO's hit fantasy series Game of Thrones, playing the iconic role of Daenerys Targaryen, and known for her advocacy on social and health issues.
Emilia Clarke is a household name, synonymous with her iconic portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen in the hit HBO fantasy series Game of Thrones (2011-2019). She has also made a mark with her performances in films like Terminator Genisys (2015) and Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018), solidifying her position as a talented and versatile actress in the entertainment industry.
Born on October 23, 1986, in London, Emilia Clarke grew up in Oxfordshire, England. Her father, Peter Clarke, was a theatre sound engineer, and her mother, Jennifer, is a businesswoman and vice-president of a global management consultancy firm. She has an older brother, Bennett, who works in the entertainment industry.
Clarke's maternal grandmother was of Indian origin, and her family has a rich history of fighters, which she credits for her strong personality. She has spoken about how her grandmother had to hide her skin color to fit in, and how this experience has influenced her own life.
Clarke's acting career began with stage productions at the Drama Centre London. She made her television debut in 2009 with a guest appearance in the BBC One medical soap opera Doctors. Her breakthrough role came when she was cast as Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones, earning her four Primetime Emmy Award nominations.
In addition to her television success, Clarke has also made a mark in films like Me Before You (2016) and Last Christmas (2019). She has also appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe miniseries Secret Invasion (2023) as Giah.
Clarke is known for her charitable work, particularly with the Royal College of Nursing and the SMA Trust. She has also been open about her personal struggles, including her experience with brain aneurysms and aphasia.
In 2019, she wrote an essay for The New Yorker about her experiences with brain surgery and aphasia, which was widely praised for its candidness and courage.
Clarke's portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen has had a significant impact on popular culture, with her character's iconic looks and quotes becoming a part of mainstream media. She has also been a vocal advocate for women's empowerment and body positivity.
Her influence extends beyond the entertainment industry, with her charitable work and personal struggles inspiring many young people around the world.
Emilia Clarke's rise to fame is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and talent. With her impressive range of roles and performances, she has cemented her position as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.
As she continues to take on new challenges and roles, Emilia Clarke's legacy is sure to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.
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