Emilia Clarke frequently clashed with Game of Thrones producers David Benioff and Dan Weiss over the portrayal of her character Daenerys Targaryen, pushing back against their decision to depict the Mother of Dragons as cold and heartless. Known for her role in the popular series, Clarke believed that Daenerys needed to retain glimpses of humanity, even as she descended into madness during the show’s final season. Despite the producers’ efforts to streamline the plot, Clarke fought passionately to preserve the complexity of her character.
Over the eight seasons of Game of Thrones, Daenerys Targaryen evolved significantly, transforming from a timid bride into a compassionate ruler before ultimately becoming a figure of fear, known for her destructive actions. Clarke’s dedication to her character led her to repeatedly challenge the producers’ creative choices. In James Hibberd’s “Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon,” Clarke revealed her numerous disagreements with Benioff and Weiss regarding Daenerys’s portrayal as emotionless. She asserted, “Don’t tell me what to do with my girl. I know what to do!” emphasizing her commitment to maintaining her character’s inherent humanity.
At 38, Clarke was deeply concerned about the direction the showrunners wanted to take. She understood Daenerys as a powerful leader, driven by her ambition for the Iron Throne, but insisted her humanity should not be lost. Clarke argued against reducing Daenerys to mere coldness, stating, “It’s like Daenerys’s calling card became cold expressionlessness. I always wanted to infuse that with some humanity because no one’s consistently like that.” Her determination showcased her desire for audiences to continue rooting for Daenerys, even as the character faced a fall from grace.
George R.R. Martin, the author of the book series on which the show is based, admitted he was less involved in the latter seasons, allowing the producers to take greater creative liberties. Without Martin’s influence, Clarke felt compelled to defend her character’s legacy tirelessly. Despite her disagreements with Benioff and Weiss, she respected their work and ultimately supported their vision for the series’ conclusion.
Even though Clarke stood firm on her creative vision for Daenerys, she would not change the ending of Game of Thrones. Her decision to respect the final cut underscores her understanding of the complexities involved in bringing the story to a decisive end. Game of Thrones continues to captivate audiences and is available for viewing on Max, serving as a testament to Clarke’s profound impact on the show and her passion for Daenerys Targaryen.
