Bafta Breakthrough Actor Ellis Howard Encourages Young Artists and Highlights LGBTQ+ Representation

Ellis Howard, a 28-year-old actor from Liverpool, has shared advice for young artists to create art on their own terms without waiting for approval. His career began to take shape after posting Instagram videos discussing inequality, which led him to gain a writing agent and mentor. Ellis starred as 15-year-old Byron in the BBC Three teen drama ‘What It Feels Like For A Girl’, a series inspired by the autobiography of trans writer and campaigner Paris Lees. The show, praised for its raw and heartfelt portrayal, explores a teenager’s struggle with gender identity in a working-class town near Nottingham. His inclusion in this year’s Bafta Breakthrough list, supported by Netflix, is a significant milestone, recognizing his talent and contribution to LGBTQ+ representation. Ellis emphasizes the importance of visibility and representation for queer and working-class audiences. The article also highlights broader concerns regarding LGBTQ+ representation in media following a recent Supreme Court ruling in Scotland that reinforced a biological definition of woman in law, potentially affecting protections for trans people. Additionally, the Bafta Breakthrough list includes Stanley Baxton, a trans game developer advocating for authentic queer narratives in gaming, as well as other emerging creatives in film and TV. The initiative aims to spotlight individuals poised for significant breakthroughs in their fields, drawing attention to underrepresented voices in the arts and entertainment.