Why Emilia Clarke Felt Season 2 of Game of Thrones Was Her Worst

Game of Thrones, one of the most popular and highly acclaimed television series of recent times, has left a lasting impact on its cast and fans alike. Emilia Clarke, renowned for her portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen, has frequently expressed that Season 2 was her worst experience on the show. This article delves into the reasons behind her sentiment, emphasizing the physical and mental toll of filming during a period when she was going through significant health challenges.

Aneurysm and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Critical Health Incident

Emilia Clarke has bravely shared her personal struggles, which have deeply affected her and her character's portrayal. In 2011, she suffered from a subarachnoid hemorrhage due to a ruptured aneurysm. This medical emergency required immediate intervention through urgent surgical procedures, including an endovascular coiling.

These surgeries were not without complications. After the operation, Clarke faced significant challenges, including aphasia, a condition that impairs the ability to understand or express language. At one point, she was even unable to remember her own name, emphasizing the severity and complexity of her health journey during this critical period.

The Struggle Continued: Recurrent Health Challenges

Clarke's health issues did not end with her initial surgery. In 2013, she underwent a second aneurysm surgery, underscoring the ongoing threat to her well-being. These recurring health challenges undoubtedly had an impact on her acting, and the stress and concern over how her recovery and health were affecting her professional responsibilities added more layers of complexity to her role.

Filming Season 2: A Period of Mental and Physical Strain

Despite the many challenges, Clarke managed to continue filming, and her performance during Season 2 was notably impacted. During interviews, she has shared that the season was particularly difficult due to her fear for her life and her ongoing concerns about the potential long-term effects of her brain injury.

The filming process during this time was marked by frequent headaches, and the actress was always aware that her health was a significant concern. This stress and worry likely contributed to the underwhelming nature of her performance in Season 2.

Clarke's character, Daenerys Targaryen, underwent a significant arc in Season 2. The dramatic shift from a confident conqueror to a figure of confusion and vulnerability was intended to be a low point in her journey. However, the hormonal changes and mental state brought on by her health issues further complicated the portrayal. Her over-the-top behavior and inability to perform at her usual high level likely reflected the strain she was enduring.

The Impact on the Character Arc

The low point in Daenerys' character arc during Season 2 was deliberate, as it was crucial for the buildup to her future power and dominance. The focus on her confusion, frustration, and loss of control was meant to highlight the complexity and duality of her character. However, the shift to a different emotional tone and the on-screen struggles may have contributed to the season's lesser critical reception.

Though the character's arc was significant, the challenging conditions during filming and the resulting impact on her physical and mental health overshadowed the intended narrative development. This period was marked by a turbulent transition that affected both the storyline and the actress's personal well-being.

A Reflection on Her Acting Career

Looking back, it is clear that Clarke's performance in Season 2 was hindered by the health challenges she was facing. Despite the obstacles, she continued to deliver impactful and memorable scenes. Her ability to balance the emotional turmoil and physical constraints has only enhanced her acting reputation over the years, and her growth as an actress can be most notably observed in her subsequent performances.

Emilia Clarke's journey during the filming of Season 2 of Game of Thrones is a powerful testimony to resilience and dedication. Her health challenges and the subsequent low point in Daenerys' character arc reflect the complex interplay between a physical ailment and an actor's performance. Her struggles during this period provide valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of the performing arts and the immense pressures actors face while maintaining their professional integrity.