A new BBC drama, What It Feels Like for a Girl, has captivated audiences with its poignant story of a queer teen navigating gender identity amidst the challenges of youth. Central to this narrative is Ellis Howard, a promising talent from Liverpool, whose performance has garnered significant attention. The show, inspired by the memoir of journalist Paris Lees, presents a vivid portrayal of a drug-fueled trans coming-of-age journey.
The recognition of Howard’s talent has reached new heights following his inclusion in the prestigious 2025 BAFTA Breakthrough list, announced recently. This program, backed by Netflix, is designed to spotlight emerging talent in the entertainment industry.
Ellis Howard’s Journey and Breakthrough Role
Born and raised in Liverpool, Ellis Howard honed his craft at The Guildhall School and has since appeared in notable productions, including the 2022 BBC horror series Red Rose and his West End debut in Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird. His role in What It Feels Like for a Girl has propelled him into the public eye, showcasing his versatility in portraying complex characters.
Howard described his experience on the show as a profound journey, acknowledging the responsibility he felt in bringing the character of Byron to life. He noted, “I felt this tremendous responsibility, but also this opportunity, to come at this role with all of my trauma and triumph and mess.” His passion for the role reflects his dedication to exploring multifaceted narratives within the entertainment industry.
Future Aspirations and Themes in Focus
Alongside his excitement for the BAFTA recognition, Howard expressed his desire to connect with other creatives through the program. He highlighted the unique vision of Paris Lees, stating, “Paris Lees is an auteur. She has this unrelenting and working-class voice in the arts.” Howard hopes to leverage the BAFTA platform to enhance visibility for What It Feels Like for a Girl and to open doors for his career.
The themes within the show resonate deeply with Howard. He emphasized the significance of exploring both queerness and class, acknowledging his roots as a working-class individual. He expressed a yearning to diversify his roles, stating, “I want to be in those period pieces… What does the version of me look like in a suit?” His ambition is evident as he seeks to tackle complex characters that challenge perceptions and narratives.
As Howard looks to the future, he also expressed a strong desire to see What It Feels Like for a Girl reach a wider audience, particularly in the United States. He remarked, “We need this anarchic, punk queer show over in the States just to ruffle some feathers.”
With his inclusion in the BAFTA Breakthrough program and a growing portfolio of work, Ellis Howard is poised to make a notable impact in the entertainment industry as he continues to explore the intersection of identity, class, and storytelling.
