Emilia Clarke, the name synonymous with the fierce and powerful Daenerys Targaryen from the iconic HBO series ‘Game of Thrones,’ has become a global icon. But her story is not just one of fame and fortune; it’s a testament to resilience, strength, and the unwavering pursuit of personal purpose. From battling through two life-threatening brain aneurysms to embracing her complex family history, Clarke’s journey is one that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Born in London on October 23, 1986, Clarke’s childhood was marked by strict rules, including her mother’s insistence on maintaining her distinctive eyebrow shape. This unique feature, while initially a source of teasing at school, ultimately contributed to her acting career. Clarke, in an interview with Byrdie, humorously reflects on her mother’s foresight, “I was told not to take drugs, not to have sex, and not to touch my eyebrows… I was bullied at school for my brows, and I’d complain to my mom, and she’d always say, ‘You will thank those brows one day, so don’t touch them.’ And now I’m an actor, so she was right.”
Beyond her career, Clarke’s beauty routine, like her personality, is a reflection of simplicity and focus on the essentials. “I cleanse and moisturize twice a day, and sunscreen is a must. Protecting your skin from the sun is the most important part of skincare,” she emphasizes. Her skincare of choice? Products from Clinique, a brand she became a global ambassador for in early 2020.
Clarke’s commitment to self-care extends beyond skin deep. She considers nightly journaling a vital component of her well-being. “I end my nights with a page of affirmations in my journal. It allows me to process my day and go to sleep with peace of mind. When I feel anxious, insecure, or down, journaling is particularly helpful. It’s how I manage myself,” she shares.
However, behind the dazzling beauty and career success lies a deeply personal and complex family history. Clarke’s mother, Jennifer, inherited a hidden lineage – her grandmother, Clarke’s great-grandmother, had a secret relationship with an Indian man during the British colonial era. This revelation, coupled with the harsh realities of societal prejudice in that era, cast a shadow over Clarke’s grandmother’s life. “It was unimaginable for my grandmother how hard she had to work to blend in with the rest of the British population. She was constantly trying to erase her natural skin tone,” Clarke recalls. “Her entire life was an act of trying to hide her identity.”
Despite the hardship, Clarke’s grandmother instilled in her a strong sense of self-worth and the importance of embracing one’s roots. “My grandmother passed away when I was 16, and her ashes were scattered in India. I traveled there with her partner at the time. The legacy of my grandmother’s life has profoundly impacted my own identity and self-confidence.” Clarke proudly proclaims, “I am proud of my one-eighth Indian heritage and cherish my roots.”
This unwavering self-acceptance is perhaps best exemplified by Clarke’s resilience in the face of two brain aneurysms. The first occurred in 2011, shortly after the premiere of ‘Game of Thrones,’ leading to a life-altering surgery and a period of intense rehabilitation. A second, larger aneurysm was discovered in 2013, requiring another critical surgery. Despite the grueling ordeal, Clarke’s determination shone through. She shared her experience with the world in 2019 through an article in the New Yorker, highlighting the anxieties and fears that come with such a life-threatening condition. “I was in the gym working out with my trainer. I was told to get into a plank position, and I felt something like a rubber band squeezing my brain. It was an excruciating pain. I tried to ignore it and continue, but my trainer made me stop. I crawled to the locker room, then to the bathroom, where I collapsed. The pain was like being punched, stabbed, and squeezed, all at once. I knew, deep down, that my brain was injured.” Clarke’s bravery and honesty inspired countless others, opening a dialogue about brain aneurysms and their devastating impact.
Today, Clarke not only advocates for survivors of brain injuries but also leads the ‘Same You’ charity, a foundation she established in 2019 to provide support for individuals impacted by brain damage and stroke. In February 2024, her tireless efforts were recognized with the prestigious MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) awarded by the Prince of Wales.
Beyond her acting and charitable work, Clarke finds solace in the simple pleasures of life, especially reading. She considers herself an avid reader and enjoys spending time immersed in books when not filming. “I’m currently reading ‘Piranesi’ by Susanna Clarke, ‘Cloud Cuckoo Land’ by Anthony Doerr, ‘Bewilderment’ by Richard Powers, and ‘Sorrow and Bliss’ by Meg Mason,” she says. Clarke’s life, while extraordinary, is not devoid of everyday moments. “When I’m filming, I like to bake bread and cakes for the cast. But otherwise, I live a pretty boring life (laughs). Or perhaps it would be better to say that I don’t share much of my private life. I have my life, and I don’t share it much with the world. I’m a doer, not a talker, so I don’t make a lot of noise. I’m scandal-free, so I’m really boring (laughs).”
Emilia Clarke’s journey is one of resilience, self-discovery, and unwavering dedication to causes close to her heart. She is a testament to the power of personal strength, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we can find our own unique path to beauty, fulfillment, and purpose.