The House Of The Dragon star revealed playing Romeo was part of their journey coming out as non-binary
BY YASMIN VINCE, IMAGE BY HBO
House Of The Dragon star Emma D’Arcy has revealed the role that helped them realise their gender identity. The actor, who identifies as non-binary, told British GQ that playing Romeo Montague in a production of Shakespeare’s tragedy helped them better understand their “gender battle”.
As the second season of House Of The Dragon reaches its midpoint, Emma explained that playing a “great male role” in 2015 helped them find the language to express their gender identity.
“I didn’t have any language for this… gender battle taking place in my body,” said Emma, reflecting on their early twenties. “It’s funny that it expresses itself in the work, and it started doing that really early.” Playing Romeo was only Emma’s second stage role and they were 23 at the time.
During the interview with GQ, Emma reflected on their experiences and revealed this was the first time they had seen the connection between their roles and their gender identity: “I hadn’t actually put those pieces together.”
The star also expressed feeling very comfortable with their identity and commended fellow non-binary actor and former Game Of Thrones star Bella Ramsey for how open they’ve been about their gender identity.
“I just have to credit Bella’s courage, because I feel like they express themselves bravely without hesitation. And I endeavour to be able to be a spokesperson like that.”
Emma, who leads House Of The Dragon as Rhaenyra Targaryen, continued to express a desire to use their fame to improve working environments for other gender non-conforming actors.
“I’m fortunate I get to play a leading role, which means I can probably shout a little bit louder,” they said. “I think that also comes with a responsibility. And I’m really up for it.”
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