Wallsend actor receives BAFTA boost

Published: 10 October 2019
Reporter: Peter Lathan

Micky McGregor at BAFTA Credit: BAFTA

Wallsend actor Micky McGregor, who, with his partner Harriet Ghost, runs Blowin’ a Hooley Theatre Company, has been chosen to be part of the BAFTA Elevate 2019 programme which aims to support those from under-represented groups moving forward in their careers and to help tackle the issue of diversity in the industry as a whole.

Those selected to participate receive a bespoke 12-month programme of support including networking opportunities, introductions, tailored panel discussions, masterclasses and workshops focused on professional development.

This year, BAFTA Elevate focuses on a group of 21 actors from under-represented groups seeking to progress in high-end television drama, comedy and features. They are from backgrounds disadvantaged by reason of disability, race or sexual orientation or else come from lower socio-economic groups.

Blowin’ a Hooley recently produced and toured Tom Hadaway’s play The Filleting Machine and was a series regular on the BAFTA-winning CBBC show Wolfblood. He also played a part in the Ken Loach movie I, Daniel Blake and in November he will be seen in Loach’s new movie Sorry We Missed You.

He is currently developing an original play, Notice To Move, and is co-producing four short plays by local writers in a celebration of North East talent. Both productions will be touring in 2020.

His love for the art form happened purely by chance: after being kicked out of school lessons for misbehaviour, he was made to sit in on a drama class and what could have become a troubled life was turned into a strong desire to pursue a career in the arts.

“In this business, it can be difficult to get the right connections if your background is like mine—a proud regional working class one,” he said. “I didn’t have the best start in life and I was homeless at the age of 16. Hard work and a determined attitude turned things around for me and this programme of support from BAFTA is a real step up for me. I’m delighted and looking forward to the exciting opportunities ahead.”

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