Top Boy's Impact on Rising British Talent
"Top Boy," a British television series that initially aired on Channel 4 in 2011, has become a significant launchpad for many young British actors. The series, which portrays the gritty reality of gang life on an East London estate, starred actors Ashley Walters and Kane Robinson and introduced numerous unknown talents to the world.
Despite its initial success, "Top Boy" was dropped by Channel 4 in 2014 after only two seasons. Three years later, Canadian rapper Drake teamed up with Netflix to revive the series, producing three additional seasons. This revival brought renewed attention to the original cast and introduced new actors into the mix.
One notable success story from "Top Boy" is Jasmine Jobson, who joined the cast in the third season. On Sunday, she won the Best Supporting Actress BAFTA for her role, crediting the show with transforming her life. Jobson, who grew up in West London and entered care at 14, expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity, emphasizing how the series allowed her to transition from bartending to full-time acting.
Michaela Coel also had a brief but impactful role in the show's earlier days. Her appearance on "Top Boy" was a stepping stone to her critically acclaimed projects "Chewing Gum" and "I May Destroy You," which earned multiple awards and recognition in Hollywood.
Other actors who began their rise to fame on "Top Boy" include Letitia Wright, who played Chantelle in the first season, and later found global recognition as Shuri in Marvel's "Black Panther." Benedict Wong, who portrayed Vincent on "Top Boy," also gained significant fame as Wong in Marvel's "Doctor Strange" series.
The series has also propelled actors such as Barry Keoghan, Sharon Duncan-Brewster, Michael Ward, Nicholas Pinnock, and Weruche Opia to greater heights in their careers. Each has since appeared in significant film and TV roles, earning awards and critical acclaim.
"Top Boy," created by Ronan Bennett, continues to be revered not just for its storytelling but for its role in shaping the careers of many now-prominent actors. The show's revival, driven by Drake's interest and support, solidified its status as an essential platform for emerging talent in the British entertainment industry.