Daryl McCormack’s ascent in the entertainment industry is nothing short of inspiring. The Irish actor, who gained recognition for his role as Isaiah Jesus in the popular series Peaky Blinders, has built a solid career with notable performances in various projects, including A Very English Scandal and the comedy thriller Pixie. However, it was his performance in the 2022 dramedy Good Luck to You, Leo Grande, opposite Emma Thompson, that marked a significant turning point in his career, revealing his potential to a broader audience.
In a recent discussion, McCormack shared the intense emotions he experienced while filming Leo Grande, describing it as a transformative moment that opened doors to new opportunities. The impact of this role has been profound; directors now frequently refer to his performance in their considerations, leading to high-profile meetings within the industry.
McCormack’s latest project marks yet another milestone as he joins the cast of Rian Johnson’s eagerly awaited third installment of the Knives Out series, titled Wake Up Dead Man, which is set to debut on Netflix on December 12. McCormack expressed his excitement about being cast in this film, especially considering Johnson’s reputation for working with A-list talent. The mystery film sees Daniel Craig returning as the detective Benoit Blanc, while McCormack plays Cy, a former politician turned YouTuber. He describes his character as someone who manipulates faith for personal gain, reflecting relevant societal themes.
In addition to his role in Wake Up Dead Man, McCormack has recently completed filming a new adaptation of Pride and Prejudice written by Dolly Alderton, where he takes on the character of Mr. Bingley. He mentioned that he intentionally avoided watching earlier adaptations to provide a fresh interpretation of the role, with kindness as a central trait of his character.
Reflecting on his career trajectory, McCormack credits his success to a succession of smaller roles that collectively paved the way for more significant opportunities. He recalled almost securing a part in Star Wars: The Force Awakens and acknowledged the invaluable lessons learned from early rejections that have contributed to his growth as an actor.
Looking ahead, McCormack is eager to broaden his creative endeavors by exploring writing and producing in addition to acting. He is currently working on a limited series that focuses on a young man’s struggle with societal expectations versus personal aspirations.
As he embraces this exciting phase of his career, McCormack emphasized the importance of continuous growth and learning. His openness to new challenges and experiences signals a bright future as he continues to deliver compelling performances in a variety of roles.