Owen Cooper, the 15-year-old star of the critically-lauded series, “Adolescence,” has just gotten a huge break. He is currently the youngest male actor ever to win an Emmy Award. He won the award for Best Supporting Actor in a Limited Series. His unflinching performance as a 13-year-old English schoolboy wrongly suspected of killing a female classmate riveted audiences. The Emmy Awards, celebrating excellence in the flourishing television medium, just awarded Cooper for his stunning talent at Sunday’s ceremony.
Since premiering on Netflix this Falls, the four-part series “Adolescence” has been turning heads. It garnered 140 million views in its first three months—it was a huge success! It’s one of the most critically acclaimed—and widely appreciated—shows of the new television era, amassing a record six Emmy Awards. And Cooper was basking in a great political victory. On the auspicious front, Erin Doherty was awarded Best Supporting Actress for her stunning work as a supportive clinical psychologist. The two-day series was full of victories! Jack Thorne for Outstanding Writing in a Limited Series, Stephen Graham – Outstanding Writing in a Limited Series and Philip Barantini for Outstanding Directing.
Cooper expressed his disbelief at his rapid rise in the entertainment industry, stating, “Honestly, when I started these drama classes a couple years back, I didn’t expect to be even in the United States, never mind here.” His inspirational journey from aspiring actor to Emmy winner speaks to his dedication and talent.
Stephen Graham, who played Cooper’s partner and was nominated for an Emmy himself for writing and acting, shared on how deeply the show has resonated. He remarked, “We never expected our little program to have such a big impact.” “Adolescence” takes advantage of the diverse and remarkable talents of its young, naïve, exuberant cast. It highlights the importance of strong narrative as key to making it big.
In a nod to his achievement, Cooper added, “I think tonight proves that if you listen and you focus and you step out of your comfort zone, you can achieve anything.” His kind words have gone a long way in encouraging many young actors to dream of following in his footsteps.
The historical context behind Cooper’s win cannot be overlooked. He credits Roxane Zal with showing him the way. At only 14 years old, she went on to win a Primetime Emmy Award in 1984 for her performance in the TV movie “Something About Amelia.” Theatrical Lighting Designer Zal’s legacy continues to inspire new talents, such as Cooper.
