Emilia Clarke, renowned for her portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen in the HBO epic “Game of Thrones,” recently opened up about how her perspective on the series has evolved since its conclusion. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Clarke, now 37 years old, shared insights into her new partnership with Pegasus Distillerie and reminisced about her time on the iconic show.
Reflecting on the profound impact “Game of Thrones” had on both her career and global audiences, Clarke expressed gratitude for the enduring fan attachment. As time has distanced her from the series, she has gained a deeper appreciation for its significance in her life.
“When I started, you don’t know what you’re doing, you don’t know what you’re surrounded by and you don’t know what you’re taking part in,” Clarke confessed. “Now, as more and more time goes between it and me doing it, the more I’m like, that was incredibly special and that was incredibly rare.”
Throughout its eight-season run from 2011 to 2019, “Game of Thrones,” adapted from George R.R. Martin’s fantasy novels, captivated audiences worldwide. Clarke’s portrayal earned her multiple Emmy nominations, including for Outstanding Lead Actress in 2019, alongside recognition at prestigious awards like the SAG Awards and Critics’ Choice Television Awards.
Beyond acting, Clarke has ventured into production with her company, Magical Thinking Pictures, gaining a newfound understanding of the complexities behind the scenes.
“I really understand how the sausage is made now,” Clarke quipped, reflecting on her production experiences. “It makes me see even more just how lightning in a bottle that was and how fortunate I was to have that as part of my experience as an actor.”
As she continues to explore new opportunities post-“Game of Thrones,” Clarke remains grateful for the role that defined a generation of television. Her journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring legacy of one of television’s most beloved series.
