Emilia Clarke, one of the most beloved actresses of her generation, became a household name thanks to her role as Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones. Her portrayal of the Mother of Dragons earned her critical acclaim and a massive global fanbase. Over the years, as she continued to grow both personally and professionally, Clarke’s appearances on The Ellen Show became a unique way for fans to track her evolution. From her first nervous, fresh-faced visit in 2013 to her confident, self-assured presence in 2023, Clarke’s transformation is nothing short of remarkable.

This article will take a closer look at how Emilia Clarke’s journey, as seen through her Ellen appearances, highlights not only her growth as an actress but also her development as a person. By comparing her first and last appearances on the show, we can gain insight into her professional trajectory, personal struggles, and triumphs — as well as the lasting impact she has made on the entertainment industry.

1. The First Appearance: 2013 — A Rising Star

In 2013, Emilia Clarke was still riding high on the success of Game of Thrones. At the time, the show was already in its third season, and her portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen had established her as one of the most promising young actresses in Hollywood. Yet, despite her newfound fame, Clarke’s appearance on The Ellen Show revealed a side of her that was still finding her footing in the public eye.

Clarke’s first visit to Ellen was filled with youthful energy, but also an unmistakable sense of nervousness. The audience could tell she was still adjusting to the intense media scrutiny that comes with being a part of one of the most successful shows of all time. As she sat down with Ellen DeGeneres, it was clear that the actress was still coming to terms with her newfound fame. She was charming and engaging, yet there was a palpable innocence to her interactions with the host.

Her look in 2013 was distinctly “fresh-faced” — youthful, with minimal makeup, and styled in a way that suggested she wasn’t quite yet comfortable in the Hollywood spotlight. In those early days, Clarke was still learning to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry, and she often spoke about her excitement and gratitude for being part of such a massive production. In fact, her vulnerability and genuine enthusiasm in interviews became one of her most endearing qualities.

During this first appearance, much of the conversation focused on Game of Thrones and Clarke’s character, Daenerys. Ellen, ever the jokester, teased her about the challenges of playing a character with so much power and strength, while Clarke laughed off the questions with good-natured humor. But there were also hints of the struggles she faced — the long hours on set, the pressure of portraying such an iconic character, and the difficulties of breaking into Hollywood. It was clear that, while she was excited about her success, there were still many challenges ahead.

Despite her nerves, Clarke’s wit and charisma were already apparent. She was a rising star, but her journey was just beginning. The interview marked the start of her public life as a celebrity, and though she didn’t fully realize it at the time, this first appearance would set the stage for the many years of transformation that would follow.

2. A Decade Later: 2023 — The Confident, Established Star

Fast forward to 2023, and Emilia Clarke’s appearance on The Ellen Show couldn’t have been more different. By this time, Clarke had become a seasoned, confident actress with a string of notable projects under her belt. Her portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen had wrapped up with Game of Thrones, but she had long since moved on to other ventures — both as an actress and a producer.

The tone of her second appearance was markedly different from her first. Where once there had been nervous energy, there was now an air of self-assurance. Emilia spoke with confidence, reflecting on her experiences in the industry, the challenges she had faced, and the growth she had undergone in both her career and personal life. Her humor was more refined, her presence on stage more comfortable. She was no longer the young, uncertain actress from a decade earlier, but a woman who had weathered the ups and downs of Hollywood with grace and resilience.

Her physical transformation was just as striking as her professional one. The fresh-faced girl with wide eyes and a nervous laugh had evolved into a polished, sophisticated woman. Clarke’s style had grown more refined, her hair styled to perfection, her makeup expertly applied. She had embraced a more mature aesthetic, one that matched the confidence she exuded.

During this appearance, Clarke was more open and reflective. She spoke candidly about her career trajectory and how her perspective on success had shifted. The focus was no longer just on Game of Thrones, but also on her projects post-GOT, such as her roles in Last Christmas and Secret Invasion. She also shared her experiences producing shows and films, as well as her philanthropic work, including her advocacy for brain injury awareness and mental health.

Clarke’s second appearance on Ellen also showcased her growing ability to open up about her personal struggles. She had spoken in the past about surviving two life-threatening brain aneurysms, and by 2023, she had become a vocal advocate for mental health awareness. The candidness with which she addressed these challenges reflected her personal growth — not just as an actress, but as a person who had learned to navigate the complex emotional landscape that comes with fame and public life.

3. The Personal Growth: What Fans Didn’t Know

One of the most significant shifts in Emilia Clarke’s public persona over the past decade has been her openness about the personal challenges she has faced. In her early years in the spotlight, Clarke was often seen as the bubbly, carefree starlet who had made it big. However, as time went on, she began to share more about the difficulties she had experienced, including her battle with a life-threatening brain aneurysm that required multiple surgeries.

By the time she appeared on Ellen in 2023, Clarke was no longer just a Hollywood actress — she was a role model, using her platform to speak out about issues that mattered to her. Her candor about her health struggles and the importance of mental health advocacy had endeared her to fans even more. What had once been playful banter on the Ellen couch became more profound, with Clarke offering thoughtful insights into the importance of resilience and self-care.

Her relationship with Ellen had also evolved over the years. While their earlier interactions were filled with light-hearted jokes and anecdotes, by 2023, their conversations had taken on a deeper, more meaningful tone. The playful teasing remained, but there was also an underlying mutual respect and understanding. Fans could see how much Clarke had grown, both personally and professionally, and the dynamic between her and Ellen reflected that.

4. The Career Journey: From Game of Thrones to New Projects

While Game of Thrones will always be the role that defined Emilia Clarke’s career, she has successfully carved out a diverse and exciting post-GoT path. After the show ended in 2019, Clarke’s career took on new dimensions. She ventured into the world of film, starring in romantic comedies like Last Christmas, which showcased her versatility as an actress, and she joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Secret Invasion.

Additionally, Clarke’s role as a producer demonstrated her growing influence in the industry. She took on more creative control and began working on projects that aligned with her personal values. As an actress, she continued to explore a wide range of roles, from comedy to drama to action, proving that her acting talents were not limited to any one genre.

Her appearances on The Ellen Show were a reflection of this career growth. In 2023, Clarke spoke not just about her past work but also her future ambitions. She was no longer just an actress; she was a multifaceted public figure with a wide-ranging career that spanned acting, producing, and philanthropy.

5. Style Evolution: How Her Fashion Has Changed

Emilia Clarke’s fashion evolution over the years mirrors her professional growth. In her early years on The Ellen Show, Clarke’s style was youthful and laid-back, with simple, casual outfits that suited her “girl next door” image. However, as her career grew, so did her fashion choices.

By 2023, Clarke had fully embraced a more polished, sophisticated look. Her red carpet appearances were always a topic of conversation, with the actress regularly donning couture gowns and high-fashion ensembles. On The Ellen Show, she presented a more mature and confident version of herself — a stark contrast to the younger, more casual style she once wore.

Her fashion choices reflected her changing role in Hollywood — from a rising star to a seasoned icon. As she transitioned from the world of fantasy television to more mainstream films, her style also evolved, becoming more glamorous and fashion-forward. It was as if her outward transformation matched the growth she had experienced as a person.

6. The Lasting Impact: Emilia Clarke’s Legacy

As we reflect on Emilia Clarke’s journey from 2013 to 2023, it is clear that her impact on the entertainment industry is far-reaching. She has become more than just a talented actress; she is a beloved figure whose personal and professional growth has inspired millions of fans around the world.

Her appearances on The Ellen Show serve as a perfect snapshot of this evolution. From a nervous young actress breaking into Hollywood to a seasoned professional with a legacy of success, Emilia Clarke’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, self-reflection, and hard work.

Her legacy is one of strength and vulnerability, humor and depth. In many ways, Emilia Clarke embodies the journey of countless actors who have navigated the unpredictable world of fame. Through her work, her openness, and her evolving sense of self, she has proven that even the most iconic characters can be just the beginning of a much larger story.

Conclusion

Emilia Clarke’s journey from her first appearance on The Ellen Show in 2013 to her final visit in 2023 is a testament to the power of growth — both personal and professional. From the early days of Game of Thrones to her current role as a multifaceted star and philanthropist, Emilia Clarke has come into her own in ways that inspire admiration.

As we reflect on her evolution, it’s clear that her story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and remarkable transformation. So, what’s next for Emilia Clarke? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the world will continue to watch as she carves out her legacy as one of Hollywood’s most respected and beloved figures.

We invite you to share your favorite moments of Emilia Clarke on The Ellen Show and reflect on how far she has come. What do you think has been the most inspiring part of her journey?