The Spotlight Prize 2025 Finalist

What made you want to be an actor?

I loved playing and pretending when I was a kid, so I guess I never really grew up. But I love telling stories and delving into characters who have something to say. I want to tell stories which mean something to not only me, but other people.

Who in the industry would you like to work with?

There are so many incredible creatives who I’d love to work with! Andrew Scott and Andrew Garfield are two actors who have always inspired me. I also love the films of people like Damien Chazelle, Jordan Peele and Richard Linklater, which continue to change the way I view storytelling. Writers like Jez Butterworth and Simon Stephens as well, for their immense character work.

What films, shows or books are currently inspiring you?

I’ve recently watched films such as Le Haine, which I believe to be a masterpiece. I recently read Normal People by Sally Rooney, as I’m a sucker for a romance story. I also rewatched Breaking Bad, which is a dream show! Performances, direction, storyline – sensational! I also found my love for Pink Floyd – The Wall as an album and film. It’s such a brilliant piece of work.

What would be your dream role?

10-year-old me would definitely say ‘Spider-Man’ or ‘Luke Skywalker’, and they are still high up on my list. I love complex characters who have something to prove or say. ‘Jesse Pinkman’ from Breaking Bad is a prime example – making the audience laugh one minute and cry the next. Or, someone like ‘Andrew’ in Whiplash – someone so driven by their objective, who goes on a huge journey throughout the film. Also Shakespeare characters such as ‘Hamlet’ or ‘Bottom’, or some amazing contemporary characters who are close to me like ‘Tobes’ from Growth or ‘Davey’ from Jerusalem. Plays such as History Boys, Punk Rock or Pomona also have some incredibly detailed and interesting characters.