Tommy Jessop
Tommy Jessop is an actor, author, public speaker, campaigner and dancer. He has
Down syndrome
Down syndrome, also known as Down's syndrome, is a type of disability. People with Down syndrome may find it hard to learn new things and may need support. They may have more problems with their health too.
and is also one of Mencap's amazing MythBusters!
As well as appearing in lots of popular TV shows, Tommy is an Honorary Doctor of the Arts - an award given by universities to people who have achieved a lot by doing something like music, writing, singing, dancing, or acting.
So, to start our series articles about how to get a job if you have a learning disability A learning disability is to do with the way someone's brain works. It makes it harder for someone to learn, understand or do things. , we couldn't think of a better role model to give you tips on how to become an actor, than Tommy.
“Thinking back to when I first considered acting as a career, I didn’t attend a stage school or receive any formal acting lessons. Instead, I joined a teenage drama group for a short time. I remember when I told my family that I wanted to be an actor they didn't believe me.
Someone else found me an audition, and I ended up touring a play around schools and performing at the Chichester Festival Theatre. The play was about being able to make your own choices in life, and it mainly consisted of duologues and soliloquies.
It was the producer of that play who told me about the BBC and Channel 4 Talent Fund for Disabled Actors. This was all to do with looking for TV and film work. We had training with top TV and film directors, producers and actors in things like voice work, being in the moment and how the industry works.
After that I landed my first TV role as Ben in Coming Down the Mountain, a 90 minute drama for the BBC which was nominated for a BAFTA. Nicholas Hoult and I played two brothers and the film was partly about making your own choices in life."
Later, I was selected for BAFTA Elevate where we met more top directors, writers and casting directors.
The shows I am most proud of appearing in are Line of Duty, Masters of the Air, Coming Down the Mountain, and Casualty."
"I truly believe that having an agent is essential for securing acting work"
An actor’s agent is a licensed professional who speaks to industry employers like directors and producers to get actors auditions and roles. They also manage contract negotiations, handle administrative details, and help guide an actor’s career—usually working on commission.
Auditions for acting
"When I want to take on a role, I usually have to go through an audition. These are like interviews where I’m asked to perform a scene in front of directors and producers. Some people might feel nervous auditioning, but I typically find auditions very enjoyable. To manage my nerves, I find that talking to other people really helps.
When I’m auditioning, I like getting into my character’s head. I usually find the process very quick once it begins, although you often have to wait a long time before it starts.
My main advice for anyone with a learning disability who is thinking about becoming an actor is this: you have to start believing in yourself, think carefully about what you want to do in life — and remember, the world is your oyster.”
Thank you to the National Lottery Community Fund for their generous grant, funding this work.