In the glamorous world of Hollywood auditions, it’s rare for an actor’s first impression to be as memorable as the roles they eventually play. But in the case of Emilia Clarke, the woman who brought Daenerys Targaryen to life in Game of Thrones, her audition is as unforgettable as her iconic portrayal of the Mother of Dragons. During her appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Emilia opened up about a lighthearted, yet pivotal moment in her career—a dance at the audition that would go on to become a defining part of her journey into Westeros.

An Introduction to Emilia Clarke: A Star Among Dragons

Emilia Clarke’s rise to fame is a story of unexpected twists, serendipitous opportunities, and sheer talent. Known globally for her role as Daenerys Targaryen, Clarke became an integral part of one of the most successful and influential television series in history. From the moment Daenerys emerged from the flames of Khal Drogo’s funeral pyre, with three newly hatched dragons at her feet, Clarke’s portrayal of the determined and fierce queen captured the hearts and minds of fans worldwide.

As her fame skyrocketed, Clarke quickly cemented her place as one of Hollywood’s most beloved actresses, but it was the audition for Game of Thrones that set the stage for her meteoric rise. On The Tonight Show, Jimmy Fallon took a moment to reflect on Clarke’s unforgettable portrayal of the mother of dragons, before diving into a more personal anecdote—one that may have set her apart from countless other actresses vying for the role.

The Dance at the Audition: Emilia’s Bold Move

During the interview, Emilia shared a quirky yet fascinating story from her audition for Game of Thrones. In a move that was as playful as it was bold, she revealed that she decided to incorporate a dance into her audition. While it may seem unusual for an audition for a fantasy series, Clarke’s decision to dance had an underlying logic—one that would go on to shape her approach to the character of Daenerys.

“I was trying to make an impression,” Clarke confessed with a twinkle in her eye. “Daenerys was going to be such an epic character, and I wanted to show them that I could do more than just read the lines. So, I thought, why not throw in a dance?”

The dance was not a random act of whimsy, but rather an expression of the freedom and strength that Daenerys represented—a woman of fire, resilience, and a deep connection to her dragons. Emilia explained that her intent was to showcase her range and commitment to embodying the essence of Daenerys, even in her audition. The idea was to demonstrate not only the intensity of the character but also her playful, uninhibited side—a quality that would become crucial in portraying Daenerys’s eventual journey from a meek princess to a powerful, self-assured ruler.

“I remember they were a little surprised, but they didn’t stop me,” she continued with a grin. “I think it was the unexpected nature of it that made me stand out.”

Behind the Scenes of the Audition Process

The audition process for Game of Thrones was famously rigorous, as the show’s producers were seeking someone who could capture the complex nature of Daenerys. Unlike many other casting calls, which often focus purely on dramatic readings or physical looks, this audition required something extra—something that would give Emilia the edge.

When she walked into the audition room, she was met with more than just lines to read; she was being evaluated for her ability to embody a character that would evolve dramatically over the course of the series. Daenerys was a character who began as an innocent, frightened girl and ultimately transformed into a ruthless and powerful queen. For Emilia, showing her versatility and range was vital in securing the role.

Her decision to dance during the audition, a spontaneous yet deliberate act, reflected her approach to portraying Daenerys. It was a glimpse into her understanding of the character’s depth and her ability to balance lightness with gravitas. She wanted to show that, like Daenerys, she was more than one thing—she could be both vulnerable and powerful, graceful and fierce.

Jimmy Fallon’s Reaction: Genuine Surprise and Laughter

As Emilia shared the story of her dance, Jimmy Fallon’s reaction was nothing short of amusing. His face lit up with a mixture of genuine surprise and admiration, followed by laughter. “Wait, you did a full-on dance for the audition? Like, a choreographed number?” he asked, clearly amused by the boldness of it.

Emilia laughed, nodding. “It wasn’t anything fancy, but yeah, I definitely did it. And I think it helped me get the part.” She went on to recount how the producers didn’t exactly expect it, but they appreciated her creativity and confidence. It was a risk, but one that paid off—after all, the character of Daenerys Targaryen required someone who was willing to take risks and challenge conventions.

Jimmy’s enthusiasm added a layer of levity to the story, and his infectious laughter made it clear that the dance had left an impression—not just on Emilia’s audition, but on everyone who was lucky enough to witness it. “I love that you took a chance,” Jimmy said, smiling. “And it paid off. You became one of the most iconic characters in TV history because of it.”

The Legacy of Daenerys Targaryen: More Than Just a Role

As the interview progressed, Emilia took a moment to reflect on her journey as Daenerys Targaryen. She expressed how playing the character has been one of the most rewarding experiences of her life. “It’s hard to put into words how much this role has meant to me,” she said thoughtfully. “Daenerys has been such a gift, and the fans have been incredible. But it was that audition, and that dance, that set everything into motion.”

Indeed, Daenerys Targaryen remains one of the most beloved and complex characters in modern television. From the moment she was introduced as a timid girl married off to a brutal warlord to the moment she stood tall as the Breaker of Chains, Emilia’s portrayal of Daenerys was transformative. It captured the character’s evolution from vulnerability to power, and it was a journey that millions of viewers followed with bated breath. The dance at her audition, in hindsight, can be seen as a metaphor for Daenerys’s own trajectory—unpredictable, bold, and unapologetically herself.

Emilia’s portrayal of Daenerys has had a lasting impact on pop culture. The character’s powerful catchphrases, her memorable moments with her dragons, and her ultimate fall into madness have all been central to the show’s success. For Emilia, the journey with Daenerys was not just about playing a role, but about shaping a legacy—a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.

Closing Thoughts: How the Dance Made a Difference

As the interview came to a close, Jimmy Fallon reflected on the significance of Emilia’s audition story. “I think what stands out about your audition,” he said, “is that it wasn’t just about getting the lines right—it was about showing who you were and what you could bring to the role. You didn’t just audition for Daenerys—you became Daenerys in that room.”

Emilia smiled, humbly acknowledging the truth of his words. “It was a moment of pure instinct,” she said. “I didn’t overthink it. I just thought, ‘What would Daenerys do? She would dance if she wanted to.’ And that’s what I did.”

Her charm, confidence, and willingness to take risks during her audition all played a part in securing her place as Daenerys Targaryen. The dance, though unexpected, became a defining moment in her career—a reminder that sometimes, the most memorable moments come from taking chances and staying true to oneself. In the end, Emilia Clarke’s role as Daenerys is more than just a performance—it’s a testament to the power of creativity, spontaneity, and a little bit of dancing.