Is Watching Saltburn with Jacob Elordi and His Parents Awkward?

Jacob Elordi, the Australian actor famed for his roles in "The Kissing Booth" and "Euphoria," has captivated audiences with his recent performance in "Saltburn." His high school teacher, Alison Kilgour, reflects on the pride she feels watching his successful career unfold, illustrating how his journey has inspired current students at St Joseph’s Nudgee College.

Last updated: 28 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As Jacob Elordi prepares for the upcoming Oscars on 15 March 2026, anticipation is building among fans and those who have watched him grow from a high school drama enthusiast into an acclaimed actor. Elordi's recent film, "Frankenstein," has secured him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, reflecting his rapid ascent in Hollywood. Meanwhile, his performance in "Saltburn" continues to generate buzz, particularly due to its provocative scenes, showcasing his versatility as an actor. His high school teacher, Alison Kilgour, remains a proud supporter, reminiscing about their time together and the impact he has made on current drama students at St Joseph’s Nudgee College.

Key takeaways

Jacob Elordi has been nominated for an Oscar and Bafta, marking a significant milestone in his acting career.
His high school teacher, Alison Kilgour, has been a supportive figure throughout his journey.
Elordi continues to inspire current students at his former school, encouraging them to pursue their passions.

Timeline: how we got here

Jacob Elordi’s journey from a high school student to an international star has been remarkable. Below is a brief timeline highlighting key milestones:

2018: Elordi stars in Netflix's "The Kissing Booth," gaining initial fame.
2019: He begins starring in HBO's "Euphoria," solidifying his status as a rising star.
2022: Elordi appears in "Elvis," further showcasing his acting prowess.
2023: "Saltburn" is released, featuring notorious scenes that spark conversations.
January 2024: Elordi is nominated for an Academy Award for "Frankenstein."
February 2024: "Frankenstein" streams on Netflix, and "Wuthering Heights" is set for UK release.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent interviews reveal Jacob Elordi's excitement about taking his mother to the Oscars—a promise made during his teenage years. This personal touch highlights the importance of family support in his life and career.

What was already established

Elordi's dedicated work ethic and passion for acting were evident during his high school years, where he actively participated in drama programmes and sought opportunities to advance his craft. His close relationship with his family, particularly with his mother, has been a consistent theme throughout his rise to fame.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Jacob Elordi's rise has not only brought attention to his films but has also inspired a wave of interest in the performing arts among young people in the UK. His influence encourages families to support their children's artistic pursuits, potentially driving increased enrolment in drama programmes and theatre productions.

Businesses and jobs

Elordi’s success also highlights the importance of local talent in the global film industry. His projects, including the upcoming "Wuthering Heights," create job opportunities within the UK film sector, impacting local economies through production and related services.

Policy and regulation

As interest in the arts grows, there may be increased discussions around funding and support for arts education in schools. Stakeholders may advocate for policies that enhance access to drama and arts programmes, allowing more young people to explore creative careers.

Numbers that matter

28: Jacob Elordi's age as he receives his first Oscar nomination.
10: Years since Elordi graduated from St Joseph’s Nudgee College, where his journey began.
2: Major films ("Saltburn" and "Frankenstein") released within months of each other, showcasing his rapid career development.
4: The number of key family members supporting Jacob, including his parents and three sisters.
1: The promise he made to take his mother to the Oscars, symbolising his deep family ties.

Definitions and jargon buster

Oscar: An annual award presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for excellence in cinematic achievements.
Bafta: The British Academy of Film and Television Arts, which awards excellence in film and television.
Gothic: A genre that combines elements of horror and romance, often featuring dark settings and supernatural occurrences.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the Oscars approach, Elordi’s fans and followers can expect increased media coverage and promotional activities related to his nominated film. This period may also include interviews discussing his journey and future projects.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Following the Oscars, interest in Elordi's upcoming releases, including "Wuthering Heights," will peak. Viewers may also begin to see more content highlighting his contributions to the film industry and his advocacy for arts education.

Signals to watch

Upcoming interviews and appearances leading to the Oscars.
Box office performance of "Wuthering Heights" post-release.
Increased engagement with educational initiatives in the arts, inspired by Elordi's success.

Practical guidance

Do

Encourage young people to pursue their passions in the arts.
Support local theatre and drama productions to foster talent.
Engage in discussions about the importance of arts education in schools.

Don’t

Discourage creative aspirations based on traditional career paths.
Overlook the role of family support in achieving success.
Ignore opportunities to engage with local arts communities.

Checklist

Look for local drama workshops or classes for young aspiring actors.
Attend a local theatre performance to support emerging talent.
Discuss the impact of arts education with educators and local councils.
Encourage open conversations about career aspirations in the arts.
Stay updated with upcoming films and events featuring local talent.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Jacob Elordi's rise has been inspiring, it's essential to acknowledge that success in the acting industry can be unpredictable. Factors such as market trends, audience preferences, and competition can significantly influence an actor's career trajectory. Moreover, while Elordi's achievements serve as motivation, they may not reflect the experiences of all aspiring actors. Not every talented individual will receive the same opportunities, highlighting the need for resilience in pursuing a career in the arts.

Bottom line

Jacob Elordi’s journey from high school to Hollywood serves as a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and family support. As he approaches the Oscars, his story continues to inspire a new generation of young actors in the UK and beyond, reinforcing the idea that with commitment and hard work, dreams can indeed become reality.

FAQs

What films has Jacob Elordi starred in?

Jacob Elordi is known for his roles in "The Kissing Booth," "Euphoria," "Saltburn," and "Frankenstein," showcasing his versatility as an actor.

How did Jacob Elordi's high school influence his career?

His high school teacher, Alison Kilgour, noted his dedication to acting and involvement in drama programmes, which laid the foundation for his successful career.

What are Jacob Elordi's upcoming projects?

Elordi's upcoming projects include "Wuthering Heights," which is set to be released in UK cinemas on 11 February 2024.