Ellis Howard, a talented actor and writer from Liverpool, has gained significant recognition for his performance in the BBC drama What It Feels Like for a Girl. This innovative series, based on the memoir of journalist Paris Lees, explores the complex journey of a queer teenager navigating their identity in a vibrant and chaotic environment. Howard’s compelling portrayal has landed him on the prestigious 2025 BAFTA Breakthrough list, a program supported by Netflix, which highlights the most promising talents in the entertainment industry.
Born and raised in Liverpool, Howard trained at The Guildhall School before making his mark on both stage and screen. His recent projects include the 2022 BBC horror series Red Rose and his West End debut in Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird. The success of What It Feels Like for a Girl has expanded his visibility, allowing him to connect with a broader audience.
Reflections on the BAFTA Recognition
In a recent interview, Howard expressed his excitement about being part of the BAFTA Breakthrough program. He noted, “BAFTA is such an incredible institution at the very heart of our culture. To be recognized and supported by them is just such an honor.” He emphasized his pride in the project, describing it as a “tiny BBC Three show” that has now received formal acknowledgment from BAFTA.
Howard plays the character Byron, who embarks on a profound emotional journey throughout the series. He described the experience of portraying Byron as both thrilling and daunting, particularly because such roles are often reserved for more established actors. “I felt this tremendous responsibility, but also this opportunity, to come at this role with all of my trauma and triumph,” he commented.
The role has inspired Howard to embrace new challenges. He articulated his hope to explore a variety of characters in the future, stating, “It has invigorated my sensibility and my appetite to take risks and to do parts that scare me.”
Future Aspirations and Themes in His Work
Howard has set ambitious goals for his participation in the BAFTA Breakthrough program. He aims to connect with other creatives who share his passion for storytelling. He believes that Paris Lees, as an auteur, brought a unique and authentic voice to the project. “I want to meet more exciting writers and filmmakers,” he said.
In addition to networking, Howard hopes that the support from BAFTA will help him access opportunities that would otherwise remain closed. As he noted, “I’m a working-class boy from Liverpool, and so I need all of the accreditation and help that I can get for people to take me and my work seriously.”
The themes explored in What It Feels Like for a Girl resonate deeply with Howard. He highlighted the intersection of queerness and class as central to the narrative. While he identifies as a working-class gay man, Howard is eager to expand his repertoire. He expressed a desire to inhabit roles that challenge him, including period pieces and complex characters in modern dramas. Shows like Industry and Succession, known for their ambitious and ruthless characters, have inspired him to seek out similar roles.
In closing, Howard emphasized the importance of bringing What It Feels Like for a Girl to a broader audience, particularly in the United States. “We need this anarchic, punk queer show over in the States just to ruffle some feathers,” he stated, illustrating his commitment to sharing authentic narratives that reflect diverse experiences. As he continues to rise in the industry, audiences can expect to see much more from this promising talent.
