Emilia Clarke feared she would be fired from Game of Thrones after suffering two 'excruciating' aneurysms

Emilia Clarke, the actress famed for her role as Daenerys Targaryen in the hit series Game of Thrones, recently revealed her deep-seated fears of being dismissed from the show after suffering two severe aneurysms. The British actress, who played one of the most iconic characters on the series, experienced the life-threatening medical emergencies during the early seasons of the show.

Emilia Clarke played Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones. (HBO)

In a candid interview, Clarke opened up about the harrowing experience. The first aneurysm struck in 2011, shortly after filming the first season of Game of Thrones. Clarke described the pain as “excruciating,” and it required immediate medical attention. Despite the severity of the situation, she was determined to return to work, fearing that her absence might lead to her being replaced.

“The first time it was incredibly hard,” Clarke recounted. “I kept thinking I would be fired and everything I had worked for would be taken away.” Despite her physical and emotional turmoil, Clarke managed to keep her condition largely private, returning to set as soon as she could.

Clarke and her mom have since set up a charity to help people with brain injuries. (HENRY NICHOLLS/AFP via Getty Images)

However, the challenges didn’t end there. In 2013, Clarke suffered a second aneurysm, which necessitated another urgent surgery. This time, the situation was even more dire, as complications arose during the procedure. “The second one was much more severe, and the recovery was brutal,” Clarke admitted. “But I couldn’t bear the thought of letting anyone down, so I pushed through.”

Her determination and resilience paid off, as Clarke continued to portray Daenerys until the series concluded in 2019. Her portrayal earned her widespread acclaim and solidified her status as one of the show’s most beloved characters.

Reflecting on her journey, Clarke expressed gratitude for the support she received from her castmates and the production team. “The Game of Thrones family was incredibly supportive,” she said. “They knew something was wrong but never pressured me to reveal more than I was comfortable with.”

Today, Clarke is an advocate for brain injury survivors, using her platform to raise awareness and support for those facing similar challenges. Her experiences have also given her a renewed appreciation for life and her career. “Going through that made me realize how fragile life is and how important it is to cherish every moment,” she shared.

Emilia Clarke’s story is a testament to her strength and determination, both on and off the screen. Her journey through adversity not only underscores her talent as an actress but also her resilience as a person, inspiring many who face their own battles.