Emilia Clarke burst onto the scene as Daenerys Targaryen in HBO’s epic fantasy drama, Game of Thrones. The show, based on George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire novels, became a global phenomenon, catapulting Clarke to international stardom. One of the most frequent questions fans ask about the early days of the series is: how old was Emilia Clarke when she first embodied the “Mother of Dragons”? The answer, while seemingly simple, requires a bit of digging and offers an interesting perspective on the character’s portrayal and Clarke’s own journey as an actress.
Unveiling Daenerys’s and Emilia’s Ages in Season 1
To definitively answer the question of Emilia Clarke’s age during the first season of Game of Thrones, we need to consider two separate, but intertwined, factors: Daenerys Targaryen’s fictional age within the narrative and Emilia Clarke’s actual age at the time of filming and the season’s premiere.
Daenerys Targaryen’s Age in the Books vs. the Show
George R.R. Martin’s books provide a specific age for Daenerys. In A Game of Thrones, the first novel in the series, Daenerys is portrayed as being approximately 13 years old. This is a crucial point, as it highlights a significant divergence between the source material and the television adaptation. The showrunners made the decision to age up the character for the television series, a choice often made when adapting literary works, particularly those involving sensitive themes.
In the television series, Daenerys Targaryen’s age is never explicitly stated. However, through context and dialogue, it’s widely accepted that she is around 16 or 17 years old at the beginning of Game of Thrones. This alteration was primarily to make certain plot points more palatable and to allow for a more mature and nuanced portrayal of the character. The show needed to present Daenerys as someone capable of making calculated decisions, navigating complex political landscapes, and commanding armies, attributes that are more readily associated with someone older than 13.
Emilia Clarke’s Age During Filming and Premiere
Emilia Clarke was born on October 23, 1986. Game of Thrones Season 1 premiered on April 17, 2011, in the United States. Therefore, when the first episode aired, Emilia Clarke was 24 years old.
However, filming for the first season of Game of Thrones took place primarily in 2010. This means that during the bulk of the filming process, Emilia Clarke was 23 years old, turning 24 during production. This distinction is important because it provides a more accurate understanding of how old she was while actively playing the role of Daenerys in Season 1.
The Significance of Age in Performance
The age difference between Emilia Clarke and her character, Daenerys, is significant. Clarke was portraying a character roughly seven to eight years younger than her actual age. This requires a particular set of acting skills to convincingly embody the vulnerability and naiveté expected of a younger character, while simultaneously conveying the inner strength and burgeoning leadership qualities that define Daenerys.
Portraying Vulnerability and Growth
In Season 1, Daenerys is initially presented as a somewhat timid and sheltered young woman, forced into marriage by her brother Viserys. Clarke had to convincingly portray this vulnerability, showcasing Daenerys’s fear and uncertainty in her new role as Khal Drogo’s wife. At the same time, she needed to hint at the inner resilience and determination that would eventually transform her into the formidable Dragon Queen.
Clarke’s ability to capture this delicate balance of vulnerability and nascent power was crucial to the success of Daenerys’s character arc. The audience needed to see her evolution from a frightened young girl to a confident and powerful leader. This transformation is one of the most compelling aspects of Daenerys’s story, and Clarke’s performance in Season 1 laid the foundation for this dramatic shift.
Mastering the Nuances of Power
As the season progresses, Daenerys begins to assert herself, learning to navigate the Dothraki culture and exert her own influence. Clarke skillfully portrays this growing confidence, showcasing Daenerys’s increasing awareness of her own strength and her ability to command respect. This requires a subtle shift in her demeanor, a gradual shedding of her initial timidity and an embracing of her own power.
Clarke’s performance captured the nuances of this transformation, allowing the audience to witness Daenerys’s gradual evolution into a leader. She demonstrated the ability to convey authority and conviction, even in moments of doubt or fear. This ability to portray the complexities of Daenerys’s character was essential to the show’s success.
Emilia Clarke’s Career Before and After Game of Thrones
Understanding Emilia Clarke’s career trajectory before and after Game of Thrones provides further context to her performance in Season 1. While she had some prior acting experience, Game of Thrones was undoubtedly her breakout role.
Early Roles and Preparation
Before landing the role of Daenerys Targaryen, Emilia Clarke had a few television appearances and stage roles. She graduated from the Drama Centre London in 2009 and had a guest role in the British medical soap opera Doctors and a part in the television film Triassic Attack. While these early roles provided valuable experience, they were relatively small and did not garner widespread attention.
Clarke’s training at the Drama Centre London equipped her with the skills and techniques necessary to tackle the demanding role of Daenerys. She honed her acting abilities, learning to embody different characters and convey a wide range of emotions. This rigorous training prepared her for the challenges of portraying such a complex and iconic character.
Impact of Game of Thrones and Subsequent Successes
Game of Thrones irrevocably changed Emilia Clarke’s career. Her portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen earned her critical acclaim and a massive global fanbase. She was nominated for multiple Emmy Awards for her performance and became one of the highest-paid actresses on television.
Following the success of Game of Thrones, Clarke has starred in a number of high-profile films, including Terminator Genisys, Me Before You, Solo: A Star Wars Story, and Last Christmas. She has also continued to work in television, appearing in shows like Futurama and Secret Invasion. Clarke’s success after Game of Thrones is a testament to her talent and the impact of her iconic role as Daenerys Targaryen. Her experience in season 1 helped in laying the groundwork for her future performances.
The Legacy of Daenerys Targaryen
Daenerys Targaryen remains one of the most iconic and discussed characters in television history. Her journey from a vulnerable young woman to a powerful queen, her unwavering belief in her own destiny, and her ultimate descent into madness have captivated audiences worldwide.
A Complex and Controversial Character
Daenerys Targaryen is a complex and often controversial character. Her actions throughout the series, particularly in the later seasons, have sparked heated debates among fans. Some view her as a heroic figure who fought for justice and equality, while others see her as a power-hungry tyrant who ultimately succumbed to her own ambition. Regardless of one’s perspective, there is no denying the impact that Daenerys has had on popular culture.
Her story raises important questions about power, leadership, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. It explores the complexities of morality and the difficult choices that leaders must often make. Daenerys’s journey serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of absolute power and the importance of empathy and compassion.
Emilia Clarke’s Enduring Contribution
Emilia Clarke’s portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen is a testament to her talent and dedication. She brought depth, nuance, and humanity to the character, making her both relatable and compelling. Clarke’s performance helped to solidify Daenerys’s place as one of the most memorable characters in television history.
Her ability to capture the character’s vulnerability, strength, and ultimate descent into madness is a remarkable achievement. She brought Daenerys to life in a way that resonated with audiences around the world, making her an unforgettable figure in the landscape of popular culture. Her work in season 1 started it all.
In conclusion, Emilia Clarke was 23 years old during the primary filming of Game of Thrones Season 1 and 24 years old when the season premiered. Her ability to convincingly portray a character several years younger, while simultaneously capturing the nuances of Daenerys’s complex personality, was crucial to the show’s success and her own burgeoning career. Daenerys Targaryen’s legacy as a complex and controversial character endures, and Emilia Clarke’s performance remains a defining moment in television history.
How old was Emilia Clarke when filming for Game of Thrones Season 1 began?
Emilia Clarke was 23 years old when filming for Game of Thrones Season 1 commenced. She was born on October 23, 1986, and production for the first season started in 2009. While specific start dates vary based on location and character scenes, she was firmly within her early twenties as Daenerys Targaryen took shape on screen.
This age is important to note as Daenerys’ journey in the initial season involved a rapid coming-of-age story. Emilia Clarke’s own age lent a certain credibility and nuance to portraying the character’s transition from a vulnerable, bartered young woman to a powerful and determined leader.
What age was Daenerys Targaryen supposed to be in Game of Thrones Season 1 based on the books?
In George R.R. Martin’s “A Game of Thrones,” Daenerys Targaryen is depicted as being approximately 13 years old at the start of the story. This is a significant difference from Emilia Clarke’s age during filming of the television adaptation’s first season. The show made the conscious decision to age up several characters, including Daenerys.
The change in Daenerys’ age for the television series was likely influenced by the desire to avoid potential controversies surrounding the character’s arranged marriage and sexual situations. By aging Daenerys, the showrunners could portray her storyline with less sensitivity and greater freedom in terms of narrative choices.
Did Emilia Clarke’s age affect her portrayal of Daenerys in Season 1?
Emilia Clarke’s slightly older age compared to Daenerys in the books allowed her to bring a maturity and strength to the role that might have been more challenging for a younger actress. Her performance resonated with audiences, showcasing Daenerys’ resilience and burgeoning power. This added dimension contributed to the character’s immediate popularity.
Furthermore, Clarke’s experience allowed her to navigate the complex emotional landscape of Daenerys’ journey, from her initial vulnerability to her eventual command. The audience was able to empathize with Daenerys and appreciate the development of her character throughout the season thanks to Clarke’s nuanced depiction.
Was Emilia Clarke’s age a secret during the filming of Season 1?
Emilia Clarke’s age was not a secret during the filming of Game of Thrones Season 1. Information regarding actors’ ages is usually publicly accessible and is commonly known in the entertainment industry. There was no attempt to hide her real age from the public or the media.
Her casting, despite being older than the character’s age in the source material, was considered a strategic choice by the showrunners. It enabled them to portray a more nuanced and compelling depiction of Daenerys, appealing to a wider audience while addressing concerns about the character’s controversial storyline from the books.
How did Emilia Clarke prepare for the role of Daenerys, considering the age difference?
Emilia Clarke prepared for the role of Daenerys by focusing on understanding the character’s emotional journey, her vulnerability, and her growing sense of power. She immersed herself in the source material, paying close attention to Daenerys’ motivations and her relationships with other characters.
She also likely worked closely with the show’s writers and directors to develop a portrayal that balanced the character’s youth and innocence with her inherent strength and leadership qualities. This collaborative approach allowed her to bridge the gap between the character’s age in the books and her own age, creating a believable and compelling performance.
Did any other actors in Game of Thrones have similar age discrepancies compared to their characters?
Yes, many actors in Game of Thrones were significantly older than the characters they portrayed, especially the younger members of the Stark family. This was a common practice in adapting the novels for television, as it allowed for more experienced actors to handle the complex storylines and emotional depth of the characters.
For instance, Isaac Hempstead Wright, who played Bran Stark, was also older than his book counterpart. Similar age adjustments were made for other young actors, balancing the need for authentic representation with the demands of filming a large-scale television series.
How did the audience react to the age difference between Emilia Clarke and Daenerys in the books?
The audience reaction to Emilia Clarke’s portrayal of Daenerys, despite the age difference, was overwhelmingly positive. Many fans appreciated the maturity and strength she brought to the role, which enhanced the character’s arc. The show’s portrayal of Daenerys resonated deeply with viewers, leading to widespread praise for Clarke’s performance.
While some fans may have initially been surprised by the age adjustment, it ultimately did not detract from their enjoyment of the show. The changes made to Daenerys’ age were generally viewed as a sensible decision, enhancing the character’s narrative and minimizing any potential controversy.