Paul Mescal scoops first Olivier Award
He thanked his mum & dad 👏
Irish actor Paul Mescal has won best actor at the Olivier awards for his portrayal of Stanley Kowalski in A Streetcar Named Desire.
The play, which picked up a total of three awards this evening, opened at the Almeida Theatre in North London but has since transferred to the West End.
After thanking his co-stars and colleagues during his acceptance speech, the 27-year-old thanked his mum, who is receiving treatment for cancer, adding: “I hope you get better.”
Mescal, who was also nominated for an Oscar this year, told Sky News: "It's one of the greatest honours in my life... theatre is so important and will continue to be. It's just something that I will cherish the rest of my life."
After shooting to fame during the pandemic for his role as Connell in Normal People – which earned him an Emmy nomination and TV Bafta win – Paul has had another huge year, landing a role in the upcoming Gladiator sequel.
Watch Paul’s full acceptance speech 👇
Mescal walked the champagne carpet at the 2023 Oscars with his mother as his special guest.
Killing Eve's Jodie Comer picked up her first Olivier award, winning best actress for her West End debut as Tessa in Prima Facie.
Speaking about the one-person production, she said: “I’m so overwhelmed. This play has changed my life. I am so grateful and I have so many people to thank.
“To Suzie Miller for writing the most exquisite play I have ever had the pleasure of reading.
“One thing I would like to say to any kids who haven’t been to drama school, who can’t afford to go to drama school, who has been rejected from drama school, don’t let anyone tell you that it isn’t possible."
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