Emilia Clarke, celebrated for her role in “Game of Thrones,” recently shared her harrowing experiences with life-threatening health issues that occurred off-screen during her time on the show.
Despite the mixed feelings about the show’s final seasons, “Game of Thrones” remains a landmark in television history, much of its success owing to its exceptional casting and committed performances.
Clarke, 37, who portrayed Daenerys Targaryen, was instrumental in the series from its inception to its conclusion. She has now revealed the severe health struggles she endured while part of this massive project.
In an emotional disclosure to the Big Issue, Clarke opened up about the two brain hemorrhages she suffered in 2011 and 2013, which coincided with the filming schedule of “Game of Thrones.” She previously detailed the ‘excruciating pain’ and severe symptoms, including vomiting and a battle to remain conscious and preserve cognitive function.
Clarke reflected on the profound impact these health issues had on her identity and self-confidence. “When you have a brain injury, because it alters your sense of self on such a dramatic level, all of the insecurities you have going into the workplace quadruple overnight,” she explained to Big Issue.
One of her initial fears, she admitted, was losing her role due to potential doubts about her capability. “The first fear we all had was: ‘Oh my God, am I going to get fired? Am I going to get fired because they think I’m not capable of completing the job?’” she said.
The actress also confessed to harboring a fatalistic attitude upon returning to the set after her first brain injury. “Well, if I’m going to die, I better die on live TV,” she recalled thinking.
Clarke also discussed the isolation that comes with such a condition. She described feeling particularly lonely and undermined by the chronic illness.
“Having a chronic condition that diminishes your confidence in this one thing you feel is your reason to live is so debilitating and so lonely,” she shared.
Clarke’s struggles reached a point where she told medical staff she preferred death over a life without acting, fearing she might never return to her craft. However, her recovery journey has been transformative. “It has given [her] a superpower,” Clarke remarked, expressing her desire to inspire others facing similar challenges.
Following her recovery, Clarke, alongside her mother Jennifer, founded the charity SameYou. This organization aims to support individuals dealing with brain injuries and advocate for their recovery and rehabilitation.