Emma D’Arcy on leaving dragons for Tom Cruise’s Digger

Sophia Harris 09/23/2026

When you spend your time immersed in the world of epic fantasy, there’s a certain gravitational pull—the weight of dragons, the drama of political intrigue, and the high stakes of fictional kingdoms. For actress Emma D’Arcy, that world was House of the Dragon, where she brought depth and intensity to the role of Rhaenyra Targaryen.

But sometimes, the most refreshing journey is a complete pivot. Recently, D’Arcy traded the majesty of Targaryen for the sharp, witty chaos of a satirical black comedy, starring alongside Tom Cruise in the upcoming feature film Digger, directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu.

This shift wasn’t just a change of costume; it was a profound tonal retooling. Speaking about the experience, D’Arcy admitted that stepping away from the world of dragons allowed her to find a dramatically different mode of performance. “Yeah, I got to do a comedy,” she shared, embracing the shift with enthusiasm.

The dichotomy between the two projects is stark. One is steeped in the grandeur of historical fantasy, rooted in the established universe of Game of Thrones. The other plunges the audience into a story about the world’s wealthiest man grappling with the disaster he inadvertently caused, offering a completely different kind of high-stakes narrative.

D’Arcy found that difference compelling. She noted that working with Iñárritu, who is known for his specific and theatrical style, offered an entirely new creative space. “It was lovely to do something that has a radically different tone,” she explained. “Alejandro is very, very specific about that sort of tone and theatrical performance style. It’s a different mode.”

The film Digger is set to bring a fresh, comedic sensibility to the screen, featuring a stellar ensemble cast. Alongside D’Arcy and Tom Cruise, the film is anchored by performances from Riz Ahmed, John Goodman, and Sandra Hüller.

The creative foundation of Digger was crafted by Iñárritu, alongside a team of writers including Sabina Berman, Alexander Dinelaris Jr., and Nicolás Giacobone. The project debuts in US theaters on October 2, 2026.