Ellis Howard: Don’t Wait for Permission to Create Art Sparks BAFTA Breakthrough nod

Ellis Howard, a rising actor from Liverpool, believes the path to an artistic career starts with taking initiative. He credits a series of self-produced Instagram videos with opening doors to mentorship and representation in the industry.

Howard’s breakthrough came after he posted thoughtful videos on social issues, which helped him land a writing agent and a guiding mentor. He stresses that artists should pursue projects on their own terms and not wait for formal permission to create.

In his breakout role, he leads Byron, a 15-year-old navigating gender identity in the teen drama What It Feels Like For A Girl. The series, inspired by the life and work of trans writer Paris Lees, follows a working-class teenager near Nottingham as they explore self-discovery.

Critics have described the show as raw and heartfelt, and Howard’s performance has attracted significant attention. His accolade includes a place on this year’s BAFTA Breakthrough shortlist, a program meant to amplify emerging talent in film, TV, and gaming, with backing from Netflix.

The BAFTA recognition comes after Howard’s early training in Liverpool at Rare Studio and subsequent studies at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. His résumé also includes a role in the horror series Red Rose (2022) and a West End debut in Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird.

Howard emphasises the importance of LGBTQ+ representation on screen, describing the show as a mirror for audiences who see themselves and a doorway for those who access these stories for the first time. He argues that visibility matters for validating every life with dignity.

The BAFTA Breakthrough cohort also includes Stanley Baxton, a young game developer from Warrington, who uses his work to explore queer and political themes. He notes that the industry often obscures real trans experiences and argues for more authentic storytelling in games.

Glaad’s recent findings show a mixed picture: fewer LGBTQ+ characters appear on broadcast TV, though streaming platforms show more representation. The discussion around inclusivity in media continues, with advocates urging steady progress in lighting up diverse voices.

Other notable BAFTA Breakthrough names this year include Laura Carreira, writer-director of On Falling; Akinola Davies Jr., co-writer of My Father’s Shadow; and Vivian Eguridu, a casting producer for Love is Blind UK. Past Breakthrough alums include actors like Florence Pugh and Bella Ramsey, who have since reached international prominence.

In parallel discourse, discussions around legal protections and gender identity continue to shape entertainment narratives, highlighting the ongoing tension between rights, representation, and creative freedom.

Key Takeaways

• Self-initiated art can accelerate a career, even without traditional gatekeeping.
• BAFTA Breakthrough spotlights diverse, emerging talents across film, TV, and gaming.
• Accurate LGBTQ+ representation remains a central focus for contemporary media and fans.
• Public debates on gender and rights influence how stories are told and who gets heard.

Expert Comment

Expert view: Industry analysts say platforms that empower independent creators are changing the game, enabling authentic voices to reach wider audiences. Representation gains momentum when audiences demand diverse, relatable stories.

Summary

Ellis Howard’s journey illustrates how taking control of one’s narrative can transform a career, especially when it centers underrepresented voices. The BAFTA Breakthrough selection underscores a growing appetite for authentic stories in both traditional media and streaming. As conversations about rights and identity evolve, Howard’s work reinforces the importance of visibility and dignity for LGBTQ+ individuals in entertainment.

Key insight: Empowering artists to create on their own terms can unlock opportunities and advance inclusive storytelling in film, television, and games. Source