Emilia Clarke's Reign: What The Daenerys Targaryen Actress Is Doing Now In 2025-2026
The actress who brought Daenerys Targaryen, the 'Mother of Dragons,' to life has successfully navigated the post-Game of Thrones landscape, transforming her career with a mix of blockbuster roles, indie films, and a highly personal advocacy mission. As of late 2025, Emilia Clarke is not only preparing for a major return to television in a spy thriller but is also leveraging her global platform to champion a cause close to her heart, proving her reign in Hollywood is far from over.
Beyond the platinum blonde wig and the command of three dragons, Emilia Clarke has cemented her status as one of Britain’s most versatile and resilient performers. Her latest career moves, including upcoming projects in 2026, showcase a strategic shift toward high-stakes, character-driven roles that challenge the Khaleesi persona, while her work outside of acting defines a powerful, humanitarian legacy.
Emilia Clarke: A Comprehensive Biography and Profile
Emilia Isobel Euphemia Rose Clarke is an English actress who achieved global fame and critical acclaim for her portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen in the HBO epic fantasy series Game of Thrones (2011–2019). Her performance earned her multiple Emmy Award nominations and established her as a modern screen icon.
- Full Name: Emilia Isobel Euphemia Rose Clarke
- Date of Birth: October 23, 1986
- Place of Birth: London, England
- Education: Drama Centre London (graduated 2009)
- Notable Awards: Empire Award for Best Actress, Saturn Award for Best Television Actress, and multiple nominations for Primetime Emmy Awards and Critics' Choice Awards.
- Honours: Appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2023 for her services to drama and charity.
- Estimated Net Worth (2025): Approximately $20 million, primarily from her acting career and endorsements.
Key Filmography Highlights (Beyond Westeros)
Clarke’s post-Game of Thrones career has been diverse, spanning major franchises, romantic comedies, and independent cinema. Her ability to transition between genres highlights her range as an actress.
- Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones (2011–2019): The role that launched her to international superstardom.
- Sarah Connor in Terminator Genisys (2015): Stepping into a legendary sci-fi role alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger.
- Louisa Clark in Me Before You (2016): A heartbreaking romantic drama that showcased her emotional depth.
- Qi'ra in Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018): Entering the Star Wars universe as a complex, morally ambiguous character.
- Kate in Last Christmas (2019): A festive romantic comedy that proved her box-office appeal outside of action/fantasy.
- Gia in Secret Invasion (2023): Joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as a key character in the Disney+ series.
- Rachel in The Pod Generation (2023): A satirical sci-fi film exploring the future of parenthood.
The Next Chapter: Emilia Clarke's Major Upcoming Projects (2026)
Fans of the actress are eagerly anticipating her return to a leading television role, which promises to be a stark contrast to the fantasy world of the Seven Kingdoms. The upcoming lineup for 2025 and 2026 is packed with high-profile productions.
1. Leading the Spy Thriller Series, 'Ponies' (2026)
Clarke is set to star in and produce the highly anticipated spy thriller series, *Ponies*, which is slated for release on Peacock in 2026. This project marks her return to a major TV role following her appearance in *Secret Invasion* and is a significant career move, allowing her to shape the narrative both on and off-screen.
The series is described as a stylish, 1970s-era spy show, a genre that allows Clarke to explore a new, gritty, and complex character far removed from the Mother of Dragons. The buzz surrounding *Ponies* suggests it could be the next major streaming hit, solidifying her status as a power player in the industry.
2. The Highly Anticipated Film Slate: 'Criminal' and 'Next Life'
Beyond television, Clarke has several films in the pipeline for 2026. She is attached to the film *Criminal*, which is scheduled for release in 2026. Another project, *Next Life*, is currently listed as "TBA" but is generating significant interest. These roles indicate a continued focus on serious, dramatic, and potentially action-oriented cinema, diversifying her portfolio even further.
Furthermore, there is speculation and anticipation around a potential sequel, *Me Before You 2* (2025), which would see her reprise her beloved role as Louisa Clark, though official details remain scarce.
The SameYou Foundation: A Humanitarian Legacy
Perhaps the most compelling and inspiring part of Emilia Clarke’s current life is her dedication to the charity, SameYou. This organization was co-founded by Clarke and her mother, Jennifer, following the actress’s own life-altering health crisis.
Surviving Brain Aneurysms
During her time filming Game of Thrones, Clarke suffered two life-threatening brain aneurysms: the first in 2011 and the second in 2013. She has openly discussed the emotional and psychological toll of these events, including the long and difficult recovery process.
This personal experience fueled her passion to help others facing similar challenges.
Closing the Rehabilitation Gap
The SameYou charity is a registered U.K. and U.S. organization focused on improving mental health recovery for survivors of brain injury and stroke. The foundation works to close the "rehab gap," advocating for consistent, high-quality care and mental health support that often lags after initial treatment.
Clarke uses her global voice to champion this cause, urging world leaders to prioritize brain injury recovery. Her work with SameYou is considered a significant part of her legacy, earning her an MBE in 2023 for her services to drama and charity, an honor that recognizes her impact both on and off the screen.
Emilia Clarke's Enduring Influence and Net Worth
Emilia Clarke's journey from a relatively unknown actress to a global superstar is a testament to her talent and perseverance. Her estimated net worth of around $20 million reflects her success across film, television, and endorsement deals, including a high-profile salary during the peak seasons of Game of Thrones.
However, her influence extends far beyond financial metrics. By openly sharing her health struggles and channeling that experience into the SameYou foundation, she has become a powerful advocate for brain health awareness. Her willingness to discuss sensitive topics like brain injury recovery has resonated with millions of fans worldwide, giving hope and visibility to survivors.
As she steps into the 1970s espionage world of *Ponies* and continues her vital work with SameYou, Emilia Clarke remains a compelling figure. She has successfully leveraged the iconic status of the Daenerys Targaryen actress into a multifaceted career defined by artistic ambition and profound humanitarian contribution.
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