Sixteen-year-old actor Owen Cooper, who shot to fame with his powerful performance in the Netflix drama Adolescence, has spoken openly about how the series has completely changed his life. The young star, who won the BAFTA TV Award for Supporting Actor for his portrayal of a teenage boy accused of a horrific crime, described the past two years as “unreal” and expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities the show has brought him and his family.

In a press conference following the BAFTA ceremony, Cooper reflected on the whirlwind journey that began with his very first professional acting role. “Every time we are at these sorts of events… and your name gets called out, your mind just flashes back to the first audition, the first time on set, the first time meeting the cast,” he said. The teenager admitted that the experience has been life-altering, not just professionally but personally. “It’s changed my life because I’ve met all these beautiful people. Me and my family have travelled the world so it’s just been amazing,” he added with genuine emotion.

Adolescence, which also won the BAFTA for Best Limited Drama, has sparked intense public debate about incel culture, online radicalisation, and the safety of young people on the internet. Cooper’s performance as the troubled teenager at the centre of the story earned widespread critical acclaim, with many praising his raw and convincing portrayal in emotionally demanding scenes. One particularly notable sequence — a long, intense one-shot with co-star Erin Doherty — stood out for its technical difficulty and emotional depth. Cooper revealed that Doherty was the first professional actor he had ever worked with, describing the experience as both daunting and dreamlike.

Despite the challenges, Cooper emphasised the strong support he received from the cast and crew. “I didn’t know any better. It was hard. I’m not going to say everything was easy… but everyone around me got me there,” he explained. His humility and gratitude have endeared him to audiences and industry professionals alike. Series co-creator and co-star Stephen Graham, who won the Leading Actor award for his role as the boy’s father, described Cooper as a “once in a generational talent.” Graham praised the entire team for shining a light on important stories and discovering fresh talent.

Ashley Walters, who played a detective in the series and was also nominated for a supporting actor award, echoed this sentiment. He said the team knew they were working on something special from the start, but the global impact and conversations sparked by the show went “beyond our wildest dreams.” Walters highlighted the importance of creating television that moves people forward and generates meaningful discussion.

For Cooper, the sudden fame has been both exciting and overwhelming. The young actor from Warrington has had to balance his newfound celebrity status with everyday teenage life, including continuing his education. His grounded attitude and willingness to acknowledge the support of those around him have been widely admired. The series has not only launched his acting career but also given him and his family experiences they never imagined, from international travel to attending prestigious awards ceremonies.

The success of Adolescence marks a significant moment for British television. By tackling difficult and timely subjects with nuance and emotional intelligence, the show has resonated with viewers around the world. Cooper’s breakthrough performance stands as a testament to the power of giving young talent meaningful opportunities. His journey from drama classes to BAFTA winner serves as an inspiring example for aspiring actors everywhere.

As he looks to the future, Cooper remains humble and focused on learning. He has described himself as still being an “apprentice” in the industry, eager to grow and take on new challenges. The overwhelming response to Adolescence has opened many doors, but the young star appears determined to stay true to himself and make the most of every opportunity that comes his way.

The BAFTA wins for both Cooper and the series as a whole underscore the impact of thoughtful storytelling that combines strong writing, exceptional performances, and relevant themes. For Owen Cooper, what began as a bold step into acting has become a life-changing adventure filled with hard work, memorable moments, and newfound global recognition.

As the young actor continues to navigate his rising fame, his story remains a heartening reminder of how talent, opportunity, and support can come together to create something truly special — both on screen and in real life.