Ella Purnell’s ascension to stardom is a testament to her tireless work ethic and devotion to her craft. Born on August 10, 1996, in London, England, Purnell was immersed in the performing arts from a young age due to her mother’s profession as an actress. She began studying drama at the age of 10, and by 14, she had made her professional debut in small roles on British television. Purnell’s breakthrough came in 2011 with the role of Emma Taylor in the Channel 4 drama “Misfits,” earning her critical acclaim and recognition in the industry.
Purnell’s impressive performance as Polly Gray in the BBC One period drama “Peaky Blinders” solidified her status as a talented young actress, garnering widespread praise and a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the TV Choice Awards in 2015. Her role in the film “Dumbo” marked her foray into animated movies, and her versatility as an actress was further showcased in films such as “Never Back Down 2: The Beatdown” and “Cyberbully.”
Ella Purnell (Via Ella Purnell/Twitter)
Purnell’s willingness to take on diverse roles is a hallmark of her acting career, from playing a troubled teenager in “Misfits” to a strong and determined woman in “Peaky Blinders.” When discussing her approach to playing different characters, Purnell emphasized the importance of being open to learning and growing as an actor. She believes that each role presents a new opportunity to explore and experiment, and she approaches each one with an open mind and a willingness to take risks.
Purnell’s dedication to her craft is evident in her rigorous preparation and research process, spending hours studying her characters’ backstories, habits, and motivations, and even immersing herself in her characters. Her achievements have not gone unnoticed, being named one of the “Top 10 TV Actresses Under 30” by The Telegraph in 2017, and included in The Guardian’s “100 Best TV Shows of the 21st Century” list. As she navigates the ups and downs of the entertainment industry, Purnell remains committed to her craft and to playing strong and complex characters. With her versatility, dedication, and passion for acting, she is poised to continue making a name for herself in film and television.
