Jennifer Morrison (Once Upon a Time): Her Analysis of Emma Swan

Attending From Storybrooke to Paris 2 in Paris in December 2025, Jennifer Morrison, who portrayed Emma Swan in Once Upon A Time, took the time to sit down for an exclusive interview. The actress reflected in detail on the role that changed her life and on Emma’s key relationships throughout the series. You can read her insights below.

Emma and Regina: A Key Relationship in Once Upon a Time

For six seasons of Once Upon a Time, Jennifer Morrison brought Emma Swan to life, the central heroine of Storybrooke and the iconic “Savior.” Among the show’s most powerful dynamics, the relationship between Emma and Regina Mills (Lana Parrilla) holds a special place. Morrison highlights the depth of their bond, which evolved from conflict to something profoundly human.

She also emphasizes the importance of this relationship for Henry (Jared Gilmore). “I think Emma will always have a great deal of respect and gratitude for Regina, who truly loved him like her own child.”, she explains.

Captain Hook & Emma Swan: One of Jennifer Morrison’s Favorite Romances in OUAT

Another pillar of the series is Emma’s relationship with Captain Hook (Killian Jones), affectionately known as “Captain Swan” by fans. Morrison describes a love story built on reliability and mutual respect.

Emma is “that person who can challenge you in a way that awakens the kind of attraction that makes you want to be the best version of yourself.” That’s what she did for Hook, and he did the same for her in return.

Emma Swan: A Heroine Who Left a Lasting Mark on OUAT Fans

Morrison also reflects on how much Emma evolved over the seasons. She initially served as the audience’s entry point into this fairytale world — discovering magic while reconnecting with her son Henry. Over time, she became a complex heroine who deeply resonated with fans.

For Jennifer Morrison, the show’s impact goes far beyond a simple fairytale. “It’s really lovely to feel like you were part of something that ended up having such a positive impact on people.”, she shares. Even today, Morrison considers herself fortunate to have portrayed a character for so long, not only on Once Upon a Time, but also in other major projects such as Dr. House and The Night Agent.

Her portrayal of Emma Swan remains one of the most iconic roles in 2010s fantasy television, proof that the magic of Storybrooke continues long after the series finale.

Want to discover more of Jennifer Morrison’s insights? Watch the full interview on our YouTube channel , where she discusses her first day on the OUAT set, Emma and Neal’s relationship, watching Jared Gilmore grow up during filming, and her upcoming projects.