'Posh Boys' Playing Gangsters: Eddie Marsan on the Industry's Upper-Class Bias
Eddie Marsan, one of Britain's most versatile and acclaimed character actors, highlights the film and TV industry's preference for upper-class actors. He stresses the challenges faced by those from disadvantaged backgrounds trying to break into acting.
Obstacles for Disadvantaged Actors
Marsan points out the difficulty for actors without financial support from their families to succeed. He explains:
"If you want to be an actor in this country, and you come from a disadvantaged background, you have to be exceptional to have a hope of a career. If you come from a privileged background, you can be mediocre."
He argues that some like Laurence Fox fear greater representation on screen could "level the playing field."
Personal Experience
After being named vice president of drama school Mountview, where he originally trained, Marsan reflects on his own journey:
"I came here when I was in my 20s… I was a bit lost, to be honest… I was serving an apprenticeship as a printer when Mountview offered me a place."
The Need for Support
Marsan stresses the importance of backing young actors who lack financial means to pursue their careers, underlining the role of institutions like Mountview in nurturing diverse talent.
Notable Works
- Sherlock Holmes films
- Mission: Impossible III
- TV series Ray Donovan
- TV series Supacell
He also notes the rarity of his working-class background among many castmates in the industry.