From TV Talent to Oscars: Where Are the Stars Now?

The 2008 talent show "I'd Do Anything," which sought a Nancy for the West End production of "Oliver!," has seen several participants achieve significant success. Jessie Buckley, initially a runner-up, has become a Hollywood star, earning Oscar and BAFTA nominations and winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in "The Lost Daughter" (2021). In 2026, she made history by becoming the first Irish woman to win Best Actress at the Oscars for her role in "Hamnet."

Jodie Prenger, the series winner, starred in the West End production of "Oliver!" and has since built a notable theatre career. She also joined the cast of ITV's "Coronation Street" in 2022, fulfilling a lifelong dream. Samantha Barks, who finished third, has graced Broadway and the West End, starring in "Les Misérables" and "Frozen." She is scheduled to join the world premiere of "The Greatest Showman" musical as Charity Barnum in October 2025.

Other contestants have also found success. Tara Bethan appeared in a UK tour of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" and a Welsh soap opera. Amy Booth-Steel, who was the first to leave the 'Nancy' search, has become a successful stage actress and writer, with a one-woman show chronicling her cancer journey. Francesca Jackson has performed in West End productions, including "Tina The Musical."

Finalists Sarah Lark and Ashley J Russell have also maintained active careers in musical theatre, with Sarah Lark appearing in "Les Misérables" in London and Ashley J Russell featuring in the world premiere of "Wild Rose" in 2025. Rachel Tucker, a finalist, has played iconic roles, including Elphaba in "Wicked," and recently starred in "The Great Gatsby" in 2025.