Who Is Owen Cooper, the Rising Star of Netflix's Adolescence?

Owen Cooper has quickly made a name for himself as a rising star in the entertainment industry, thanks to his captivating performance as Jamie Miller in Netflix's hit miniseries, "Adolescence." This young actor, who had little prior experience before landing this role, has garnered significant attention and even early Emmy Awards buzz for his portrayal, showcasing his impressive talent and potential for a bright future.

Last updated: 04 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Owen Cooper gained fame through Netflix's "Adolescence" miniseries.
• He won the Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor at age 15.
• Cooper was initially focused on becoming a professional football player.
• His acting inspiration came from Tom Holland's performance in "The Impossible."
• Cooper trained at The Drama MOB in Manchester.

Early Life and Aspirations

Before stepping into the limelight, Owen Cooper had aspirations of becoming a professional football player. Growing up in Manchester, England, Cooper was dedicated to sports and had little exposure to acting. In interviews, he candidly admitted, "Literally nothing" was his previous acting experience. His childhood revolved around the football pitch, not the stage.

Turning Point: Inspiration from Tom Holland

A significant turning point in Cooper's career path came after watching Tom Holland in the 2012 film "The Impossible." Inspired by Holland's compelling performance, Cooper recognised a passion for acting that he had not previously acknowledged. He expressed this newfound ambition, saying, "I want to play Spider-Man." This desire to emulate his idol propelled him toward an acting career.

Training and Preparation

Once Owen made the decision to pursue acting seriously, he enrolled in classes at The Drama MOB, a well-regarded acting school in Manchester. There, he honed his skills through weekly lessons. “The lessons were just hourly lessons on a Tuesday where we’d get a piece of script and just read it off,” he revealed. Initially, he approached these classes as a hobby, not expecting to reach the heights he has achieved with "Adolescence."

Debut in "Adolescence"

Cooper's breakout role came when he auditioned for "Adolescence." At the time, his acting resume was virtually blank. He recounted the audition process, which included a self-tape where he had to convincingly portray innocence despite being in a questionable situation. “In the first one, you had to pretend to go into a headmaster’s office and act like you’ve not done anything at all — but you actually haven’t, you’re innocent,” Cooper explained. His ability to convey complex emotions impressed the casting directors and landed him the role of Jamie Miller.

On Set Experience and Growth

Cooper's experience on set was transformative. He shared insights about working with seasoned actor Stephen Graham, who portrayed his father in the series. Graham's mentorship and encouragement were invaluable during emotionally charged scenes. “When it was just us two — with no camera — in the police cell, and he scruffed me up and said, ‘You’re never going to see your mum again, you’re never going to see your dad again,’” Cooper recalled. This pivotal moment helped him tap into the emotional depth required for his character, leading to standout performances throughout the series.

Awards and Recognition

In September 2025, Owen Cooper received the prestigious Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie. At just 15 years old, he made history as the youngest male actor to win in this category. During his acceptance speech, he expressed his disbelief and gratitude, stating, “Standing up here is just so surreal. Honestly when I started these drama classes a couple of years ago, I didn’t expect to be even in the United States, never mind here.” His success is a testament to his hard work and dedication to his craft.

Future Projects and Aspirations

Following his success in "Adolescence," Owen Cooper's career is on an upward trajectory. He is set to star in an upcoming film directed by Emerald Fennell, further solidifying his position in the film industry. With his talent and drive, Cooper is poised to take on more significant roles and continue to impress audiences worldwide.

Personal Life and Interests

Despite his newfound fame, Cooper remains grounded. He often reflects on his journey and the challenges he has overcome to get where he is today. He continues to balance his acting career with his personal interests, including sports, which remain a passion for him.

Conclusion: A Star in the Making

Owen Cooper's rise from aspiring football player to award-winning actor is an inspiring story of perseverance and talent. As he continues to navigate the entertainment industry, audiences can look forward to seeing more of his work and the impact he will undoubtedly make. As he embraces his newfound fame, one has to wonder: what will Owen Cooper achieve next in his burgeoning career?

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FAQs

Who is Owen Cooper?

Owen Cooper is a young British actor known for his role as Jamie Miller in Netflix's miniseries "Adolescence," which has garnered him critical acclaim and an Emmy Award.

What awards has Owen Cooper won?

In September 2025, Owen Cooper won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie, making him the youngest male actor to receive this accolade.

What inspired Owen Cooper to become an actor?

Owen Cooper was inspired to pursue acting after watching Tom Holland's performance in "The Impossible," which ignited his passion for the craft.

Where did Owen Cooper receive his acting training?

Cooper trained at The Drama MOB in Manchester, where he took lessons to develop his acting skills before landing his role in "Adolescence."

What is Owen Cooper's next project?

Following his success in "Adolescence," Owen Cooper is set to star in an upcoming film directed by Emerald Fennell, further expanding his filmography.