He Protected Her When Cameras Stopped Rolling—Emilia Clarke on the Jason Momoa Few Ever Saw
When Game of Thrones premiered in 2011, audiences were introduced to the fierce and complex relationship between Daenerys Targaryen and Khal Drogo, played by Emilia Clarke and Jason Momoa. Their on-screen dynamic, particularly in the show’s first season, included some of the most intense and controversial scenes in television history—most notably the wedding night sequence depicting Drogo’s violent initiation of Daenerys. Behind the scenes, however, a different story unfolded, one of compassion, protection, and unexpected vulnerability, as revealed by Clarke herself.
The Emotional Toll of Filming Intimate Scenes
At just 23 years old and relatively new to television, Clarke found the intimate and violent scenes daunting. She has described feeling terrified and battling imposter syndrome while shooting sequences that required nudity and portrayed sexual violence. Yet it was Jason Momoa who bore much of the emotional weight alongside her.
In a heartfelt revelation during an appearance on the Armchair Expert podcast with Dax Shepard, Clarke shared that Momoa actually cried more than she did during those difficult scenes. This candid admission, reported by outlets including Oprah Daily and Animated Times, highlights Momoa’s deep emotional investment and discomfort with the content—his tears reflecting a profound empathy for Clarke and the gravity of the material.
A Protector On and Off Screen
Momoa’s concern for Clarke went beyond words. Multiple sources, including Cheat Sheet and Oprah Daily, recount how he ensured her comfort during filming—fetching robes to keep her warm after vulnerable scenes and providing emotional support on set. Clarke praised him for being “so kind and considerate,” crediting his presence with helping create a safer, more supportive environment.
Momoa himself has spoken publicly about his conflicted feelings regarding his character. Comparing Khal Drogo to a historical conqueror like Genghis Khan, he expressed discomfort with the character’s actions and the violent narrative, calling some of it “icky.” His candid reflections underscore the ethical and emotional complexities actors often face when portraying controversial roles.
Addressing Controversies and Apologies
The wedding night scene sparked widespread debate and criticism for its depiction of sexual violence. Momoa faced backlash for offhand jokes about rape made during early promotional events, including a 2011 Comic-Con appearance and comments to the New York Post. In 2017, he issued a public apology on Instagram, acknowledging the harm his words caused and expressing regret. While this episode is separate from the on-set emotional support he provided Clarke, it offers important context about his evolving awareness and sensitivity to the subject matter.
A Bond That Lasted Beyond the Cameras
Despite the challenges and controversies, Clarke and Momoa developed a genuine off-screen friendship. Clarke has described Momoa as possessing a “big personality and spirit” that “just takes up the whole world.” Their warm rapport was evident in a 2021 reunion captured by Entertainment Weekly, where Momoa affectionately swept Clarke off her feet—an endearing testament to their enduring bond.
Reflecting on those early days, Clarke has said, “It’s only now I realize how fortunate I was. That could’ve gone many, many different ways.” This acknowledgment underscores how Momoa’s kindness and emotional openness not only helped her navigate a difficult role but also forged a lasting friendship that transcended their characters.
The Human Side of Thrones
The story behind Emilia Clarke and Jason Momoa’s on-screen relationship reveals the human side of a show often remembered for its brutal drama. It’s a reminder that behind the fantasy and spectacle were two actors who supported and protected each other through some of television’s most challenging scenes—strengthening a friendship that fans continue to cherish years later.
