Daenerys Targaryen Was Played by a Different Actress in the Original ‘Game of Thrones’ Pilot

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In a different world, there once was a universe where Emilia Clarke wasn’t the famed Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones. Before Clarke stepped into the role of the Dragon Queen, it was Tamzin Merchant who was initially chosen to play Daenerys in an unreleased pilot for the series.

After finishing her portrayal of Catherine Howard, King Henry VIII’s fifth wife, in “The Tudors”, the script for the original HBO series unexpectedly came to her. She landed the part and filmed the initial episode, but the production process made it clear that this wasn’t a role she desired to continue. Following the filming, the actress requested her studio to terminate her contract, which they granted since they weren’t satisfied with the unbroadcast pilot.

Who Is Tamzin Merchant?

I’m primarily recognized for my portrayal of Catherine Howard in “The Tudors,” but fans of the 2005 adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice” may remember me as Georgiana Darcy, younger sister to Mr. Darcy. My latest venture was on Amazon Prime’s “Carnival Row,” where I played Imogen Spurnrose, the woman who employed Vignette (Cara Delevingne) as her housemaid. Given my history of embodying characters in period dramas and fantasy series, it felt appropriate for me to put on a platinum wig and claim my seat on the Iron Throne.

Following the acquisition of the role, Emma Merchant along with the entire cast and team filmed the initial episode. However, the studio opted for a reshoot due to certain differences, resulting in a pilot that’s distinct from the one Game of Thrones fans are familiar with today. The original version contained crucial scenes such as Daenerys’ marriage to Khal Drogo (played by Jason Momoa) and their intimate scene, which adhered more closely to the novel than the televised version, which some viewers perceive as a sexual assault. Other elements of the unbroadcast episode prompted the producers to rework the entire project, but Merchant’s acting was not among them. Her performance was widely admired, but there was an absence in the character that needed addressing. Ultimately, it was their lack of chemistry that proved decisive in discarding the pilot and opting for a recast of Daenerys, with Momoa also being replaced.

As a film critic, I must admit that the British actress delivered a stellar performance, but it was the apparent lack of on-screen chemistry with Jason Momoa that ultimately led to her departure from the series and the subsequent recasting. The role was then handed over to Clarke, whose portrayal of the Breaker of Chains garnered widespread critical acclaim, earning four Emmy nominations. Over eight seasons, she breathed life into the iconic character.

Following her exit and the studio’s decision to reboot, there were no hard feelings between Merchant and Clarke. Instead, Merchant viewed the experience as a valuable lesson in trusting her intuition. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, she shared: “It was an eye-opening experience that taught me to follow my instincts.

In simpler terms, my initial decision was to step away from the situation during the contract phase, but I was convinced otherwise by some persuasive individuals. Eventually, I found myself in Morocco on an unwilling horse ride, feeling vulnerable and terrified.

Merchant Learned to Trust Her Instincts

When Emilia Clarke (Merchant) agreed to play Daenerys, there was a disconnect between her and the storyline or character that didn’t resonate with her. On several occasions, she considered withdrawing from the project, but her management and others close to her persuaded her to continue. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Clarke shared that filming a horseback scene while nude was a profound moment that made her realize she wasn’t suited for portraying this character.

If my instincts suggest that the story doesn’t spark my interest, it’s best not to force excitement since others might be encouraging it.

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, I admire her courage in leaving behind an unforeseen TV phenomenon, a project that would later be hailed as one of the 21st century’s greatest shows. Her recent interview insights reveal a woman deeply committed to her craft, striving for genuine authenticity in her performances to honor the role appropriately. Recognizing she wasn’t the ideal fit for the character, she opted to relinquish any potential financial benefits, ensuring that the perfect actor could bring the character to life.

During an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Merchant emphasized that she harbored no ill feelings towards Clarke. She felt Clarke’s portrayal of Daenerys was just as legendary and awe-inspiring to fans as they believed it to be.

It’s truly impressive how Emilia Clarke made that role so memorable; you could see her genuine enthusiasm in portraying the story, and she truly excelled with an outstanding performance.

Emilia Clarke Is Daenerys Targaryen

Emilia Clarke’s decision to play Daenerys Targaryen on Game of Thrones felt like a remarkable cosmic coincidence, a perfect fit for the role. Across eight seasons, she breathed life into this character with unbridled passion and genuine affection. Each scene showcased her commitment to this role, even amidst the contentious Season 8 narrative. Her captivating performance in the HBO production garnered her four Emmy nods and a legion of fans who admired her interpretation of the George R.R. Martin-created character.

Game of Thrones is available to stream on Max.

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2025-06-02 00:02