15 September,2026 12:33 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Emma D`Arcy and Emilia Clarke (Picture via AFP)
The world of Westeros came together at the 2026 Emmy Awards as Game of Thrones star Emilia Clarke and House of the Dragon actor Emma D'Arcy shared the stage in a special Targaryen reunion. Clarke, who played Daenerys Targaryen in the original HBO series, and D'Arcy, who portrays Rhaenyra Targaryen in its prequel, presented the award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie. The honour ultimately went to Sally Field for Remarkably Bright Creatures.
The presenters added a fun Westerosi touch to the ceremony by speaking in High Valyrian, connecting their characters despite the centuries separating their respective stories. The moment delighted fans, particularly as both actors have become closely associated with the Targaryen dynasty, one of the most powerful families in the Game of Thrones universe. The two actors presented the award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie, which went to Sally Field for Remarkably Bright Creatures. Clarke has received four Emmy nominations for her work on Game of Thrones, while D'Arcy is yet to receive an Emmy nomination.
As they arrive on the stage, Emma D'Arcy has a special tribute to their Targaryen's bond. The actress shared, "In the Game of Thrones universe, Emilia is my great-great-great-great-really-great-granddaughter. And in honour of our Targaryen tradition, Emilia is going to address you all in the High Valyrian mother-tongue. And I will translate." Emilia left everyone stunned with her quick speech, to which Emma jokingly mentioned, 'That's good evening', leaving all in splits.
The pair's Emmy appearance also carried a personal touch. D'Arcy recalled meeting Clarke for the first time and receiving advice from the veteran actor about handling the pressure of leading a major television franchise. Clarke had spent years filming Game of Thrones, giving her firsthand experience of the demands that came with being part of a global phenomenon.
Interestingly, House of the Dragon was absent from the 2026 Emmy nominations because its third season, which began airing in June, fell outside the eligibility period. The latest season will therefore compete at the 2027 Emmys.
The reunion comes as the House of the Dragon story moves closer to its conclusion. Production on its fourth and final season is expected to begin in 2027, with the final chapter currently planned to premiere in 2028.
