Guys you need to know this name: Owen Cooper . Seriously this young actor is about to be everywhere. He is the lead in Netflix's intense new show 'Adolescence' and get this he had basically ZERO acting experience before landing the role. Yep you heard that right. From zero to Netflix lead in one jump. Let's dive into how this happened and why everyone in Hollywood is buzzing about Owen Cooper.
'Adolescence': Netflix's Must-See Drama That Launched a Star With No Acting Background
'Adolescence' is not your typical feel-good watch. It's a heavy drama a four-part series on Netflix that digs into some tough stuff. Think bullying toxic masculinity and how messed up things can get for young people today. Owen plays Jamie a seemingly normal 13-year-old who gets arrested for a terrible crime. No spoilers here but trust us it is intense.
What makes 'Adolescence' even wilder is that each episode is filmed in one single continuous shot. Imagine the pressure! Director Philip Barantini known for his one-shot movie 'Boiling Point' went all in. This filming style throws you right into the story feeling every bit of the emotional rollercoaster in real time.
Owen stars alongside some serious acting heavyweights like Stephen Graham from 'This Is England' and Erin Doherty from 'The Crown'. Graham also co-wrote and produced the series. But even with these pros it is Owen who is stealing the show. Critics are raving about his performance calling it "astonishing" and "incredible".
From Zero to Hero: Owen Cooper's Unbelievable Journey From Hobby to Hollywood Fast Lane
Okay so how does a kid with basically no acting credits end up leading a major Netflix series? It is a crazy story. Owen admitted he only started acting as a hobby a couple of years ago. He went to weekly drama classes just for fun. He even had dreams of being a footballer first. Acting was not even the main plan.
Then boom out of nowhere he gets a self-tape request for 'Adolescence'. He sent it in not expecting much and the rest as they say is history. He went from those casual Tuesday lessons to leading a Netflix show in no time. Director Philip Barantini said casting Owen was a bit of a gamble but it paid off big time. They looked at thousands of tapes but Owen stood out. Barantini was blown away by Owen's natural talent saying he has skills actors train years to achieve.
Behind the Scenes Secrets: One-Shot Filming Stephen Graham's Intense Scene and a Yawn That Made the Cut
Filming 'Adolescence' was not easy especially with the one-shot approach. Owen admitted he was intimidated at first but everyone around him helped. Stephen Graham played a big part in that support. Owen shared a story about a scene with Stephen in a police cell. Before filming Stephen got right in his face and delivered an intense emotional speech about never seeing his parents again. Owen said this really helped him tap into the emotional depth needed for the role.
There is also a funny story about an unscripted moment that made it into the final show. In episode three during a long intense scene with Erin Doherty Owen was just tired after multiple takes and yawned. Erin being the pro she is reacted instantly with a line that was not in the script "Am I boring you?". Owen smiled and that unexpected real moment became a standout scene. It shows how much of the magic on screen came from the genuine interactions between the actors not just the script.
Next Stop: 'Wuthering Heights' Owen Cooper Lands Role in Emerald Fennell's Star-Studded Film
As if leading a Netflix show was not enough Owen's career is taking off even further. He has already been cast in Emerald Fennell's new movie adaptation of 'Wuthering Heights'. This is another huge project with a star-studded cast including Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. Owen will be playing young Heathcliff. Talk about a career trajectory!
Owen mentioned he is still filming 'Wuthering Heights' and is enjoying the experience even though it is not one-shot like 'Adolescence'. He is getting used to a different style of filming and working with major Hollywood names. Apparently his 'Adolescence' co-star Stephen Graham actually recommended Owen to his agent who then helped him land the 'Wuthering Heights' role. It is all connected in the acting world.
What's Next for Owen Cooper? The Sky's the Limit for This Breakout Talent
So what is next for Owen Cooper? Well the future looks seriously bright. He is already proven he can handle leading roles in intense dramas and is now moving into big feature films. He is only just starting out but is already gaining recognition for his talent and dedication. Director Philip Barantini even joked he would love to work with Owen again maybe on a movie next time. Keep an eye on Owen Cooper because this is just the beginning of what promises to be an amazing career.
Key Facts About Owen Cooper:
- Breakout Role: Plays Jamie Miller in Netflix's 'Adolescence'.
- No Prior Experience: 'Adolescence' was his first on-screen acting job.
- One-Shot Drama: Starred in a series known for its challenging one-take filming style.
- Praised Performance: Received critical acclaim for his natural and truthful acting.
- Next Big Project: Cast as young Heathcliff in Emerald Fennell's 'Wuthering Heights'.
- Discovered Talent: Casting director Shaheen Baig found him after a wide search.
- Humility: Remains down-to-earth despite his rapid success enjoying swing ball breaks on set.