Emilia Clarke is being envisioned as Mera in a stunning fan image, replacing Amber Heard in the Aquaman franchise.
Amber Heard originated the role of Mera in the DC Universe, first appearing in 2017’s Justice League and continuing in Aquaman (2018) and its sequel, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. The first Aquaman movie was a massive box-office success, grossing over $1.1 billion globally and receiving praise from critics.
However, the sequel, released in December 2023, failed to replicate this success, grossing just $434 million—a sharp decline from its predecessor. Amid these challenges and controversies surrounding Heard, fans have suggested replacements for the role of Mera, with Emilia Clarke emerging as a fan favorite.
Changes in the DC Universe
The DC Universe has undergone significant changes under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran. Gunn, known for his work on Guardians of the Galaxy, has emphasized that the franchise’s future will focus on storytelling and exploring both iconic and lesser-known characters.
“We know we are not going to make every single person happy every step of the way,” Gunn shared on X (formerly Twitter). “But we can promise everything we do is done in the service of the STORY and in the service of the DC CHARACTERS we know you cherish.”
These changes began with the recasting of Superman. Henry Cavill was replaced by David Corenswet, signaling the studio’s willingness to take bold steps in reshaping the franchise.
Amber Heard’s Role and Controversy
Amber Heard’s limited screen time in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom came after her high-profile defamation trial with ex-husband Johnny Depp. During the trial, Heard claimed her role in the film was significantly reduced due to the fallout from her legal battle.
“They took a bunch out of my role,” Heard alleged. However, then-DC executive Walter Hamada refuted this, stating that her reduced presence was due to concerns about her on-screen chemistry with co-star Jason Momoa.
Reports from Heard’s therapist’s notes alleged that Momoa arrived on set intoxicated and dressed like Depp, attempting to have her removed from the film. However, DC publicly dismissed these claims, asserting that Momoa acted professionally throughout the production.
Emilia Clarke as Fan Favorite
Fans have long speculated about who could step into the role of Mera if Heard were to be replaced. Digital artist Diego de Sousa created a striking image of Emilia Clarke as Mera, reigniting enthusiasm for the actress to join the DC Universe.
Clarke, known for her role as Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones, has an established rapport with Momoa, who played Khal Drogo in the series. Fans have praised her potential as Mera, with one commenting, “For sure she is a better Mera than Amber Heard.”
Another added, “I’m here for it.”
The Future of Aquaman
With Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom underperforming at the box office, the likelihood of a third installment appears uncertain. Momoa, who portrays the titular King of Atlantis, acknowledged this, saying, “I don’t necessarily want it to be the end, [but] I don’t think it’s really, like, a choice.”
He added: “If the audience loves it, then there’s a possibility. But right now, I’m like, ‘It’s not looking too good.’”
As Gunn and Safran continue to reshape the DC Universe, it remains unclear whether the character of Mera—or Aquaman itself—will return to the big screen. For now, fan imaginations of Clarke as Mera offer an exciting glimpse of what could be.