Joshua O’Connor Bio
Joshua O’Connor (born 20 May 1990) is a British actor known for his impactful performances on both screen and stage. He gained significant recognition for his role as Larry Durrell in the ITV drama The Durrells and achieved critical acclaim for his portrayal of Charles, Prince of Wales, in the Netflix series The Crown, for which he won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. His breakout role came in the film God’s Own Country, showcasing his range as an actor. O’Connor continues to be a prominent figure in contemporary British cinema and television.
Early Life and Background
Joshua O’Connor was born in Southampton, England, to John O’Connor, a teacher, and Emily O’Connor, a midwife. He grew up in Newbury until the age of five, when his family relocated to Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. O’Connor is the middle child in a family of three boys. His grandfather was the sculptor John Bunting, and his maternal aunt is the British writer and commentator Madeleine Bunting. O’Connor has Irish, English, Scottish, and Jewish ancestry. Initially aspiring to be a professional artist, he switched to rugby before discovering his passion for acting. His first major role was at age seven as the scarecrow in a school production of The Wizard of Oz. He later attended St Edward’s School, Cheltenham, where he participated in the school’s drama program, which helped him cope with his dyslexia. O’Connor trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, graduating in 2011.
Path to Hollywood
O’Connor began his acting career in 2012, making his television debut as Charlie Stephenson in the series Lewis and appearing as a zombie in the film The Eschatrilogy: Book of the Dead. He gained further experience in various television roles, including appearances in Doctor Who, Law & Order: UK, and Peaky Blinders. His stage debut came in 2013 with a role in Farragut North at the Southwark Playhouse, which garnered positive reviews. O’Connor’s early career included diverse roles in both film and television, leading to his breakout performance in God’s Own Country in 2017.
Joshua O’Connor Career
Early Career (2012–2018)
In 2012, O’Connor made his first notable television appearance in Lewis and his film debut in The Eschatrilogy: Book of the Dead. He continued to build his resume with roles in series such as Doctor Who and Peaky Blinders. His stage work included performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company and in various plays in London. O’Connor’s breakthrough came in 2017 when he starred as Johnny Saxby in God’s Own Country, a role that earned him critical acclaim and several awards, including the British Independent Film Award for Best Actor.
Breakthrough (2019–present)
O’Connor’s portrayal of Charles, Prince of Wales, in the Netflix series The Crown marked a significant turning point in his career. He joined the cast in Season 3 and received widespread acclaim for his performance, winning the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. His work on the show continued into Season 4, where he further developed the character’s complexity. O’Connor’s performance in The Crown solidified his status as a leading actor in the industry. He also starred in the film Emma, based on Jane Austen’s novel, and appeared in several other projects, including the upcoming films Challengers and Wake Up Dead Man.
Notable Works and Milestones
Joshua O’Connor’s signature works include his roles in The Crown and God’s Own Country, both of which have earned him critical acclaim and prestigious awards. His ability to portray complex characters with depth has made him a sought-after talent in contemporary cinema.
Joshua O’Connor Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Joshua O’Connor has received numerous nominations for his performances, particularly for his work in The Crown and God’s Own Country.
Joshua O’Connor Awards Won
Joshua O’Connor has won several prestigious awards, including the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role in The Crown and the British Independent Film Award for Best Actor for God’s Own Country.
Joshua O’Connor Family
Joshua O’Connor was born to John O’Connor and Emily O’Connor. He has two brothers and comes from a family with a strong artistic background.
Personal Life
O’Connor has lived in various locations, including a Victorian house in Shoreditch and briefly in New York. He currently resides in Gloucestershire, England. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, drawing, and various outdoor activities. O’Connor is known to support the Labour Party and has been active in various charitable initiatives.
