What is the relationship between Kit Harington and Emilia Clarke?

In Game of Thrones, numerous on-screen couples emerged, many wildly unconventional. Ned Stark and Catelyn Stark showcased profound love and devotion to each other and were incredibly wholesome. Another notable duo was Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen, portrayed by Emilia Clarke and Kit Harington, which garnered immense popularity.

Their on-screen romance was complicated by their complex family histories, unveiling shocking secrets in the series’ climax. Fans remain intrigued by Clarke and Harington’s off-screen relationship. In this article, we explore the dynamics between these actors, exploring their on-screen portrayals and real-life connections.

Quick answer: Emilia Clarke and Kit Harington are friends in real life and have never had a romantic relationship. Clarke has had multiple relationships within the entertainment industry, while Harington is married to his “Game of Thrones” co-star Rose Leslie and has children with her.

Read More: Jason Momoa opens up about Emilia Clarke’s aneurysms: ‘We Almost Lost Her’

Who are Kit Harington and Emilia Clarke?

Credits: Venturelli/WireImage

Kit Harington, born Christopher Catesby Harington on December 26, 1986, is an English actor who became famous for portraying Jon Snow in Game of Thrones. His performance earned him nominations for a Golden Globe Award and two Primetime Emmy Awards.

Harington, a graduate of the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, debuted professionally in 2009, starring as Albert Narracott in the West End production War Horse. He ventured into production, bringing to life the character of Robert Catesby in the 2017 BBC drama Gunpowder.

Harington’s cinematic repertoire includes roles in Pompeii (2014), Testament of Youth (2014), and the Marvel Cinematic Universe film Eternals (2021). Additionally, he lent his voice to the How to Train Your Dragon film series (2014–2019).

Emilia Isobel Euphemia Rose Clarke, born October 23, 1986, is an English actress acclaimed for her portrayal of Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones (2011–2019), which earned her four Primetime Emmy Award nominations. Clarke, a graduate of Drama Centre London, began her television career with a guest appearance in the BBC One series Doctors in 2009.

She made her mark on Broadway as Holly Golightly in the 2013 play Breakfast at Tiffany’s and appeared in a West End production of The Seagull. Her notable film roles include Sarah Connor in Terminator Genisys (2015), Qi’ra in Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018), and lead roles in Me Before You (2016) and Last Christmas (2019). Clarke recently starred as G’iah in the Marvel Cinematic Universe miniseries Secret Invasion (2023).

Read More: Gemma Whelan feels Game of Thrones changed the way women are represented on-screen

Kit Harington as Jon Snow

Credits: HBO

In Game of Thrones, Kit Harington played Jon Snow, also known as Aegon Targaryen. Jon is the son of Lyanna Stark and Rhaegar Targaryen, the former Prince of Dragonstone. Despite being raised as the illegitimate son of Eddard Stark, Jon’s true lineage is kept secret to protect him from those seeking to eradicate House Targaryen.

Joining the Night’s Watch, Jon rises to become its Lord Commander. His controversial decision to aid the wildlings leads to his murder in a mutiny. Melisandre, the Red Priestess, resurrects him from death.

After leaving the Night’s Watch, Jon, along with his half-sister Sansa Stark, reclaims Winterfell from House Bolton, restoring Stark rule in the North. He is hailed as King in the North.

Read More: Nikolaj Coster-Waldau reunites with Charles Dance in Netflix drama Against the Ice

Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen

Credits: HBO

In Game of Thrones, Emilia Clarke played Daenerys Targaryen, also known as Daenerys Stormborn or Dany. She was the daughter of King Aerys II Targaryen and Queen Rhaella and the sister of Rhaegar and Viserys Targaryen.

Initially timid, her confidence grew after marrying Khal Drogo and gaining the loyalty of his khalasar. Following Drogo’s death, she expanded her dominion in Essos, liberating Slaver’s Bay from Ghiscari slave masters and commanding an army of Unsullied.

She styled herself as Daenerys Stormborn of House Targaryen, Queen of the Andals and the First Men, Protector of the Seven Kingdoms, Mother of Dragons, Khaleesi of the Great Grass Sea, the Unburnt, and the Breaker of Chains. However, she was occasionally referred to as Daenerys of the House Targaryen, the Breaker of Chains, and Mother of Dragons.

The relationship between Jon and Daenerys

Credits: HBO

In Season 7 of Game of Thrones, Jon negotiates an alliance with Daenerys Targaryen against the White Walkers, eventually pledging loyalty and falling in love with her. He relinquishes his throne, becoming Warden of the North.

He fights in battles against the Night King and participates in the campaign for the Iron Throne. Jon and Daenerys enter a romantic relationship. Later, discovering his true parentage from Samwell Tarly, Jon learns that Daenerys is actually his aunt.

During the Last War, Daenerys, affected by personal losses and betrayal, succumbs to the “Targaryen madness,” burning King’s Landing despite their surrender. She seizes power, killing Queen Cersei Lannister and countless civilians, until Jon Snow assassinates her to prevent further destruction.

Bran the Broken succeeds her after being elected by the Great Council of 305 AC. Following the Great Council decision, Jon is exiled and returns to the Night’s Watch, leading the Free Folk to settle in new lands.

Emilia Clarke and Kit Harington’s relationship

Credits: Rolling Stone

Game of Thrones might have concluded, but the enduring friendship between Emilia Clarke and Kit Harington remains steadfast. Despite their characters’ romantic entanglements on the show, Clarke and Harington share a bond resembling that of siblings.

Their friendship blossomed from the moment they met, as Harington vividly recalls their initial encounter in Belfast. Struck by each other’s charm and wit, they quickly became fast friends. Their connection transcended physical attraction, rooted instead in shared humor and mutual respect.

Their chemistry, evident early on, was showcased during a 2012 photoshoot when they shared a passionate kiss for Rolling Stone. However, Clarke has debunked persistent rumors of a real-life romance, emphasizing their platonic relationship.

Clarke and Harington, often dubbed as counterparts, share similar career trajectories and experiences. They lean on each other for support and advice, understanding the unique challenges they face as actors on a globally celebrated show.

Despite not sharing many scenes until later seasons, their off-screen camaraderie flourished through press events and Comic-Con appearances. Their first on-screen romantic encounter in Season 7 elicited laughter rather than passion, with Harington comically pretending to gag during intimate scenes.

Their emotional investment in the show was palpable during the final table read, mainly when Harington learned of Daenerys’s fate. The tender moment between them underscored the depth of their bond beyond the realm of acting.

Clarke’s friendship with Harington’s wife, Rose Leslie, further solidifies their relationship. The trio, along with Leslie, share a close-knit bond that transcends any on-screen romance, reflecting the genuine connection between Clarke and Harington.