Emilia Clarke Leaves Dragons Behind in ‘Ponies’
Emilia Clarke, known for her iconic role as Daenerys Targaryen in “Game of Thrones,” is making her return to television in the new series “Ponies.” Scheduled to air on Peacock starting Thursday, this Cold War-era drama features Clarke as Bea, the wife of an intelligence agent who becomes a spy herself.
Clarke’s Transition from Fantasy to Drama
This shift represents a significant change in Clarke’s acting career. The actress noted that her role in “Game of Thrones” left little room for reflection, as it was her third professional role at the young age of 22. She described her rise to fame as overwhelming and lacking in personal contemplation.
At 39 years old, Clarke has varied experience, having performed in stage productions such as “The Seagull” in London. She has also appeared in films across multiple genres, excluding fantasy. “You’re highly unlikely to see me get on a dragon, or even in the same frame as a dragon, ever again,” she stated firmly.
Becoming a Lead in “Ponies”
Clarke faced apprehension when considering another leading role. Reflecting on her commitment, she felt overwhelmed at the prospect of headlining a television series again. While her experience with “Game of Thrones” was unforeseen in its success, she was determined to take on the challenge of “Ponies.” Clarke remarked, “It was the first time in my professional life that I stopped,” highlighting how the 2019 Emmys coincided with the onset of the pandemic, which forced her to confront past introspections.
The Journey to Self-Discovery
Over the years, Clarke has navigated personal loss and health struggles, including the passing of her father in 2016 and two brain hemorrhages. While she acknowledges the hardships of the pandemic, she also views it as an opportunity for self-discovery, prompting her to consider what she truly wanted from her career.
In “Ponies,” Clarke’s character, Bea, transforms from a seemingly average housewife in 1970s Moscow to a determined C.I.A. operative. This development parallels Clarke’s own career evolution, as she seeks autonomy over her professional decisions. “So much of my career didn’t reflect my taste,” she admitted, expressing a desire to move beyond others’ expectations.
The Dynamic of “Ponies”
During production, Clarke took an active role as an executive producer. She emphasized the importance of team morale, even going so far as to cook for her co-star, Haley Lu Richardson, who portrayed Twila, a fellow agent. Richardson praised Clarke’s innate kindness and ability to connect with others, a quality that highlights her desire for genuine relationships.
Jamie Lloyd, director of “The Seagull,” recounted his first meeting with Clarke, noting her relatable nature despite her fame. “She just turned up,” he said, encapsulating her approachability.
Conclusion
Clarke’s journey from a fantasy epic to a grounded drama in “Ponies” represents her growth as an actress and as an individual. By stepping into the shoes of Bea, she not only captures the essence of her character but also embarks on her path of self-assertion and exploration.
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