Emilia Clarke discusses lasting brain damage from aneurysms

Actress Emilia Clarke has revealed the long-term physical impact of surviving two brain aneurysms, stating that “quite a bit” of her brain is no longer usable. The 'Game of Thrones' star shared that doctors have expressed surprise at her ability to function normally despite the extensive damage caused by the strokes.

The medical crisis began in 2011 when Clarke collapsed during a workout, leading to a diagnosis of a subarachnoid hemorrhage—a life-threatening stroke caused by bleeding around the brain. Following an initial surgery to repair an arterial rupture, she faced a second major ordeal in 2013 when a smaller aneurysm on the opposite side of her brain doubled in size, requiring further invasive surgery.

Clarke noted that while the damage is permanent, she is able to live her life without repercussions. She described the nature of strokes, explaining that once blood flow is interrupted, the affected brain tissue is lost.