'Posh Boys' Playing Gangsters: Eddie Marsan on Class and Acting
Actor Eddie Marsan reflects on the challenges faced by performers from disadvantaged backgrounds in the UK film and TV industries. He emphasizes that to succeed, they must be truly exceptional.
“If you want to be an actor in this country, and you come from a disadvantaged background, you have to be exceptional,” says Marsan.
Marsan also comments on the reluctance of some, like Laurence Fox, towards increased on-screen diversity, suggesting it threatens existing privileges by aiming to "level the playing field."
He argues people like Laurence Fox fear greater representation on screen will "level the playing field".
Context and Timing
The remarks were made on Thursday, 6 November 2025, at 21:53 UK time.
Author's Summary
Eddie Marsan highlights how the acting industry’s focus on upper-class roles limits diversity and demands extraordinary talent from those starting with fewer opportunities.