Laurie Davidson, born on July 1, 1992, has steadily built a name in the world of acting. Originally from Dulwich, South London, he honed his craft at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), graduating in 2016.

His journey from stage performances to prominent roles in television and film showcases his versatility and dedication to the performing arts.

The Path to the Spotlight

While at LAMDA, Davidson appeared in a production of Anton Chekhov’s The Seagull, where his performance caught the attention of an agent.

Before making his television debut, he primarily worked in theatre and had a minor appearance in the 2014 film Vampire Academy. His talent quickly led to a variety of opportunities, including a role in the BBC production Diana & I, where he portrayed a journalist witnessing a significant moment in modern history.

A Fresh Perspective on Shakespeare

Davidson's breakthrough role came with TNT’s 2017 television series Will, in which he played a fictionalized version of a young William Shakespeare. This casting decision followed several rounds of auditions, initiated by a recommendation from a casting director involved with The Favourite.

At the time of his selection, Davidson was still completing his studies at LAMDA. He had been preparing for a stage role in Fiddler on the Roof when he received the life-changing news that he had been chosen for Will. To fully commit to the role, he stepped away from his school production to begin filming the pilot episode.

Rather than drawing inspiration from traditional portrayals of Shakespeare, Davidson approached the character with a fresh perspective. Following director Shekhar Kapur’s advice, he studied films such as Straight Outta Compton and 8 Mile to capture a raw, rebellious energy that the show aimed to bring to its depiction of the playwright’s early years.

His research also involved an in-depth exploration of Shakespeare’s written works, allowing him to embody the essence of the character in a unique way. The series premiered in July 2017, marking Davidson’s entrance into the world of television as a leading actor.

Stepping into the World of Musical Adaptations

In September 2018, Davidson joined the cast of Cats, a film adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s acclaimed stage production. Taking on the role of Mr. Mistoffelees, he contributed to the film’s visually ambitious reimagining of the classic musical.

Expanding His Portfolio in Film and Television

Davidson’s career continued to flourish with roles across various genres. In The Good Liar (2019), he played Hans Taub, adding another film credit to his growing résumé. In 2023, he appeared in The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die as Ingimundr, further establishing his presence in historical dramas.

His television work remains equally diverse. After Will, he took on roles in series such as Guilty Party (2021), The Sandman (2022), and the miniseries Masters of the Air (2024). With performances spanning different periods, themes, and genres, he has demonstrated his ability to adapt to a wide range of characters.

Commanding the Stage

Davidson’s theatre work has been an integral part of his artistic journey. In 2017, he joined the cast of The Ferryman at the Gielgud Theatre, taking on the role of Shane Corcoran. He followed this with performances in The Meeting at the Chichester Festival Theatre and The End of History at the Royal Court Theatre.

In 2022, he returned to the stage with Jack Absolute Flies Again at the National Theatre, where he played the title role. His ability to transition seamlessly between film, television, and live performances highlights the depth of his talent and his passion for storytelling in all forms.

A Bright Future Ahead

Laurie Davidson continues to make an impact in the entertainment industry, bringing energy and authenticity to every role he takes on. With a career spanning theatre, film, and television, his journey reflects a dedication to his craft and a commitment to evolving as an artist. As new opportunities arise, audiences can look forward to seeing more of his dynamic performances in the years to come.