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Published: Friday, January 23, 2026 at 1:28 am

Emilia Clarke Opens Up About Near-Fatal Brain Aneurysms

Emilia Clarke, the actress known for her role in *Game of Thrones*, has shared her harrowing experience with two brain aneurysms and the subsequent surgeries she underwent. In a personal essay, Clarke detailed the events that began in 2011, shortly after filming battle scenes for the hit television series.

The actress described experiencing a severe headache while at the gym, which quickly escalated into a medical emergency. She was rushed to the hospital where a scan revealed a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), a life-threatening stroke caused by bleeding in the brain. The diagnosis confirmed an aneurysm, a rupture in an artery.

Clarke underwent immediate surgery to address the aneurysm. During her recovery, she experienced aphasia, a condition affecting her ability to speak and understand language. Despite these challenges, she recovered and was discharged from the hospital a month later.

However, in 2013, a follow-up brain scan revealed that a growth had doubled in size, necessitating a second surgery. This procedure proved more complicated, resulting in a massive bleed. Clarke's survival was uncertain, and a second operation was required.

Fortunately, Clarke has since recovered and reports being "at a hundred per cent." Her story highlights the severity of brain aneurysms and the resilience required to overcome such a life-threatening condition.

BNN's Perspective:

Emilia Clarke's candid account serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of early detection and treatment for serious medical conditions. Her openness about her experience can help raise awareness and encourage others to seek medical attention when experiencing concerning symptoms. It also underscores the critical role of medical professionals in providing life-saving care.

Keywords: Emilia Clarke, brain aneurysm, subarachnoid hemorrhage, SAH, stroke, Game of Thrones, surgery, aphasia, health, medical, recovery, actress, health scare, medical condition

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