Game of Thrones remains one of the most talked-about television series, not just for its epic storytelling and shocking plot twists, but also for its star-studded cast. Emilia Clarke, who brought Daenerys Targaryen to life, often found herself in awe of her talented co-stars. While Clarke worked with many skilled actors throughout the series, there was one who stood out above the rest—Diana Rigg. Clarke’s admiration for Rigg and her lasting bond with Peter Dinklage offer a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of one of TV’s most iconic shows.
Diana Rigg: A Legendary Presence on the Game of Thrones Set
The late Diana Rigg had already established herself as a legendary actress by the time she joined the cast of Game of Thrones. Known for her illustrious career on stage and screen, Rigg captivated audiences with her portrayal of the sharp-tongued, cunning Olenna Tyrell, the matriarch of House Tyrell. Emilia Clarke, like many others on set, couldn’t help but be mesmerized by Rigg’s performance.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Clarke shared her experience of working alongside the esteemed actress. Despite having only a brief scene together, Clarke confessed that she was so captivated by Rigg that she had to remind herself to stay in character.
“Okay, not my line yet, I’m not just watching you—really! I’m acting with you,”
Clarke recalled, reflecting on the intensity of the moment.
This scene was more than just an ordinary interaction between two characters. It was a powerful exchange where Olenna Tyrell, with her characteristic wit and wisdom, delivered a piece of advice that would resonate throughout Daenerys Targaryen’s journey.
“The lords of Westeros are sheep. Are you a sheep? No. You’re a dragon. Be a dragon,”
Rigg’s Olenna declared, cementing her place as one of the most memorable characters in the series.
The Lasting Impact of Diana Rigg’s Performance
Even though Rigg’s role in Game of Thrones was relatively limited in terms of screen time, her impact was profound. Showrunners recognized Rigg’s incredible talent and expanded Olenna Tyrell’s role to fully utilize her strength as a seasoned actress. Fans were captivated by her character’s arc, which culminated in one of the most epic death scenes in the series.
In her final moments, Olenna Tyrell confessed to poisoning Joffrey Baratheon, a revelation that stunned both the characters and the audience. Even facing imminent death, Rigg’s portrayal exuded a commanding presence, leaving everyone—both on and off-screen—breathless.
Emilia Clarke and Peter Dinklage: A Bond Beyond the Screen
While Diana Rigg’s performance left a lasting impression on Emilia Clarke, there was another actor on set who also had a profound influence on her—Peter Dinklage. Known for his portrayal of Tyrion Lannister, Dinklage quickly became one of the show’s most beloved characters. His on-screen chemistry with Clarke, especially after their characters’ fateful meeting in Season 5, was undeniable.
Their bond extended beyond the confines of the show. Clarke often spoke highly of Dinklage, not only praising his acting skills but also expressing her admiration for him as a person. The two became close friends, with Clarke frequently attending Dinklage’s red-carpet premieres and supporting him in his other endeavors.
Their friendship became a source of strength for Clarke as she navigated the complexities of playing Daenerys Targaryen, a role that demanded emotional depth and a strong on-screen presence. Having mentors like Dinklage and Rigg made a significant difference in her performance, helping her bring the Mother of Dragons to life in a way that resonated with fans worldwide.
The Enduring Legacy of Game of Thrones
As fans continue to revisit Game of Thrones on HBO, the contributions of actors like Diana Rigg and Peter Dinklage remain at the forefront of what made the series a cultural phenomenon. For Emilia Clarke, the experience of working with such legendary talents was a career-defining moment, one that she carries with her long after the cameras stopped rolling.
Diana Rigg and Peter Dinklage may have been Clarke’s co-stars, but they were also her idols—individuals who inspired her to reach new heights in her acting career. As Clarke continues to evolve as an actress, the lessons she learned from them will undoubtedly continue to influence her performances in the years to come.
For now, fans can relish in the knowledge that even someone as iconic as Emilia Clarke had moments of awe and admiration on the set of Game of Thrones—a testament to the extraordinary talent that brought this epic saga to life.