Owen Cooper: How a Schoolboy Conquered the Golden Globes and Changed Acting for a Generation
Owen Cooper, a 16-year-old from Warrington, stood on stage at the Golden Globes, feeling like the experience was surreal. He had just won the award for Best Supporting Male Actor for his role in Netflix's drama, 'Adolescence', which dominated cultural conversations about male toxicity in 2025. This success followed triumphs at the Emmys, where the show secured multiple awards, including another for Cooper.
Cooper's journey to stardom began with his dedication to the Drama Mob, a group co-founded by Coronation Street actor Tina O'Brien. Esther Morgan, a teacher and co-founder, recognized Cooper's talent from the start. She recalls, "He definitely wanted it. He was committed to listening, taking direction, and learning his lines."
However, Cooper's success is not a story of sudden emergence. He had been with the Drama Mob for two years before the 'Adolescence' casting process, which initially had more of Morgan's students in the running. Despite the competition, Cooper stood out. Casting director Shaheen Baig noted, "His name kept coming back."
Co-writer Jack Thorne shared his experience working with Cooper during the rehearsals for Episode 3, an intense interview scene. Thorne observed, "He came in prepared, but it was intense. With support from Philip Barantini and Erin Doherty, he gradually embodied the character, becoming Jamie by Friday."
Cooper's success has broader implications. As a passionate advocate for northern actors, he highlights the challenges they face. The exodus from Hollywood has made London a more attractive hub for studios, centralizing an industry where over half of all productions take place in the capital. Morgan warns that northern actors, including future talents, are being left behind.
Another challenge is the gender imbalance in acting. Cooper revealed on stage that he was the only boy in his drama school class, which he found embarrassing. Morgan confirms a significant drop-off in boys attending her classes after high school, as pursuits like football and rugby become more appealing. Acting is often seen as a soft skill or 'cringe' activity among Gen Z.
Statistics support this perception, with 17,000 boys taking GCSE drama in the UK in 2025 compared to 35,700 girls, and a similar ratio at A-level. However, Cooper's success is making a difference. Morgan observes, "Since Owen's success, more boys have joined drama. He's become a role model, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones."
'Adolescence' on Netflix has also played a significant role in its success. The show's initial episode attracted 6.45 million viewers, while the second episode recorded 5.9 million, breaking UK records. Despite its gritty, northern setting, the show has resonated with a wide audience.
Co-writer Jack Thorne expresses cautious optimism about the potential for a new wave of working-class British dramas. He acknowledges the challenges of selling British accents and 'issues' internationally, but remains hopeful. The industry's conservative nature may eventually embrace a more diverse range of stories.
