Interviews

20 Questions with … Rising star Joe Dempsie

Joe Dempsie, best known for his roles in Skins and Game of Thrones, is currently starring in Even Stillness Breathes Softly Against a Brick Wall at Soho Theatre, which continues until 14 June

Where and when were you born?
Liverpool, 22nd June 1987

What made you want to become an actor?
Finding that I enjoyed it and it was one of the few things I was good at.

If you hadn’t become an actor, what might you have done professionally?
History teacher.

First big break?
Skins.

Career highlights to date?
Skins. The Fades. The Dark Continent. Southcliffe.

Favourite co-stars?
Everyone in Skins.

What was the first thing you saw on stage that had a big impact on you?
A production of Equus I saw while I was at the Junior Television Workshop in Nottingham, performed by the older age group.

And the last?
but i cd only whisper at the Arcola.

Can you give us an overview of Even Stillness Breathes Softly Against A Brick Wall?
It’s a play about a young couple who, realising their lives are not what they want them to be, reject the status quo and cut themselves off from the outside world.

Can you relate to your character?
Of course. I think it’s important to be able to see where your character is coming from and empathise, even if their lives of very different to your own. His frustration with modern life is something that I share from time to time.


Favourite line in the play?

“I start browsing hardcore porn sites while I look for news on the war. A common theme. Life.”


Joe Dempsie & Lara Rossi in Even Stillness Breathes Softly Against a Brick Wall


Are you enjoying working at Soho Theatre?

Yes. We’ve been here for a few days, but we’ve just discovered the air conditioning and it’s made a world of difference.


What’s your favourite post-show haunt?

Nando’s.


Are you often recognised?

Not really. There was a period of a couple of years post-Skins where it was quite full on, but that’s died down a lot and now it only happens every now and again.


How do you unwind?

I go to the gym, and watch Curb Your Enthusiasm.


If you could swap places with anyone for a day, who would it be?

My co-star Lara Rossi, to see what it’s like to play her part!


Who’s your acting idol?

Mark Rylance, Michael Sheen, Paddy Considine.


Favourite film?

A Room for Romeo Brass

Best piece of advice for an aspiring actor?
Do it because you enjoy it, and as long as you still are enjoying it, you’ll probably be very happy regardless of your status.


What’s next?

Good question!