Hannah Onslow, a rapidly rising British actress, has emerged as one of the most exciting talents in television and film. With memorable performances in acclaimed dramas and a commitment to authentic storytelling, Onslow’s journey reflects resilience, versatility, and an unwavering dedication to her craft.
Early Life and Family Roots
Born on 1 April 1998 in Romford, Greater London, Hannah Lucy Onslow spent her formative years in a close-knit family that has always been central to her life. Romford, known for its vibrant community, shaped Onslow’s grounded attitude and distinctive accent, which she later chose to embrace despite industry pressures.
Initially, Hannah Onslow dreamed of being a dancer, attending regular dance classes on Sundays before her passion for dramatic arts took hold. She attended the BRIT School, a renowned institution for creative talent, and later graduated from the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in 2019.
Family remains a vital anchor for Onslow. She frequently shares moments with her parents and siblings, highlighting her elder sister’s upcoming wedding as a cherished personal milestone.
Formative Influences and Personal Background
Hannah Onslow’s transition from dance to acting was marked by persistence against scepticism and the challenging advice of teachers who questioned the viability of her ambitions. She credits her educational years with instilling not just technical skills but emotional resilience and the confidence to pursue her goals despite setbacks.
A prominent aspect of Hannah Onslow’s worldview is her advocacy for personal authenticity. She often encourages young actors to ignore negative voices and remain true to their roots, whether it be their accent, background, or personal quirks.
Career Journey
Early Breakthroughs
Hannah Onslow debuted on BBC One’s Call the Midwife in 2020, playing the role of Connie Blair. Her television credits quickly expanded, including a pivotal part as Elise in Ridley Road (2021), a drama centred on the 1960s Jewish resistance movement in the UK.
Major Roles and Ongoing Success
- Empire of Light (2022): Onslow’s first major film role came in Sam Mendes’ award-winning drama, where she played Janine, acting alongside industry legends Olivia Colman and Micheal Ward. The role showcased her emotional range and screen presence, gaining critical acclaim and opening further opportunities.
- This Is Going to Hurt (2022): Playing Erika van Hegen in the BBC adaptation of Adam Kay’s memoir, she portrayed the complexities of pregnancy, societal pressure, and medical ethics in Britain’s NHS.
- Unicorns (2023) and The Doll Factory (2023): These roles further cemented Hannah’s reputation for transforming diverse characters. As Emma in Sally El Hosaini’s indie feature and Elizabeth Siddal, a Pre-Raphaelite muse, in the psychological thriller for Paramount+, Onslow brought depth and authenticity to her performances.
- Belgravia: The Next Chapter (2024): As Emily Dunn in MGM+’s historical drama, she demonstrated versatility in period acting, costumes, and adaptation skills.
- This City Is Ours (2025): Starring as Diana, Onslow portrayed the deeply resilient and loyal girlfriend of a Liverpool gangster. Her performance has earned rave reviews, with the BBC confirming a second season due to the show’s widespread acclaim.
Recent Developments: The Second Time Around
In 2025, Hannah Onslow starred in The Second Time Around, a short film directed by Caroline Goodall. Her lead performance in this proof-of-concept short has attracted industry buzz, broadening her impact into innovative and artistic formats. The film explores themes of redemption, second chances, and intergenerational relationships, providing Onslow a platform to display nuanced, dramatic skill in a compact but powerful narrative.
Artistry and Collaborative Ethos
Hannah Onslow is known not only for her talent but for the personal warmth and gratitude she brings to the set. She attributes much of her growth to learning from seasoned actors such as Olivia Colman and Sophie Thompson, emphasising the value of collaboration and supportive work environments.
Her style is an intricate blend of Essex chic and London cosmopolitan, and her ability to perform different English accents has become a professional asset.
Filmography Highlights
Personal Life
Onslow currently resides in London, balancing a busy work schedule with deep commitments to family and friends. She openly reflects on her experiences with self-doubt, the challenges of maintaining authenticity, and her pride in her accent and heritage.
Outside her professional life, Hannah enjoys the beach, indulges in reality TV nostalgia (early TOWIE episodes with her mum), and is an aficionado of soul and alternative music—Sam Cooke, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, and Arlo Parks are some of her favourites.
She recommends Reenie’s Ice-Cream Bar in Primrose Hill as her top London spot, a testament to her grounded and relatable persona.
Net Worth and Industry Recognition
While her net worth is undisclosed, Hannah Onslow continues to build her financial profile through prominent lead roles in BBC, MGM+, and Paramount+ productions, as well as independent film and commercial projects.
Her increasing presence at red carpet events and favourable media coverage demonstrate her growing status in the British entertainment industry.
Social Media and Public Image
Onslow maintains a vibrant social media presence, especially on Instagram (@hannahonslow_), where she connects with fans, shares behind-the-scenes content, and celebrates professional milestones. Her authenticity and accessibility have endeared her to audiences beyond her work on screen.
Public Perception and Controversy
Uniquely, Hannah Onslow has navigated fame without significant controversy. She is widely respected for her professionalism, integrity, and open conversations around the realities of breaking into acting. Interviews reveal her candour about stereotypes, pressures, and the necessity for resilience in the industry.
Recent News and Industry Buzz
- This City Is Ours was renewed by the BBC for a second season after a standout first run.
- Hannah’s headline performance in The Second Time Around places her at the forefront of actors expanding into short-form, innovative cinematic storytelling.
- She continues to attract critical acclaim for dramatic range and emotional depth across genres and formats.
FAQs about Hannah Onslow
Where and when was Hannah Onslow born?
Hannah Lucy Onslow was born on 1 April 1998 in Romford, Greater London.
Which schools did she attend?
She attended the BRIT School and graduated from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in 2019 with a degree in acting.
What was her film debut?
Her film debut was as Janine in Empire of Light (2022), directed by Sam Mendes.
What is her most recent major project?
Her latest major project is the BBC drama “This City Is Ours,” in which she plays Diana, and the short film “The Second Time Around,” which she collaborated on with Caroline Goodall.
Is Hannah Onslow active on social media?
Yes, her Instagram handle is @hannahonslow_, where she shares candid career moments and engages with fans.
Has she been involved in any controversies?
As of 2025, Hannah Onslow has maintained a reputation free from controversy, focusing instead on her craft and authentic self-expression.
How does she describe her personal style and cultural tastes?
Onslow blends Essex chic and London trends; she loves Sam Cooke, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Arlo Parks, and frequents Reenie’s Ice-Cream Bar.
What advice does she give aspiring artists?
She urges actors to ignore naysayers, embrace their unique identity, and stay persistent regardless of industry scepticism.
What makes her recent short film, The Second Time Around, special?
The film provides Onslow with a platform to explore complex emotional themes in a collaborative and innovative format, alongside industry veteran Caroline Goodall.
