Walters Navigates Acting & Directing Juggle

Ashley Walters has made a significant shift in his career, stepping away from acting for over 30 years to direct his feature film debut, "Animol." This drama, set in a British juvenile detention center, explores themes of identity, betrayal, and sexuality. Walters notes that his previous experience with a short film and TV work prepared him, but directing a feature required him to answer all creative questions, a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience.

The film's completion coincided with a dramatic resurgence in Walters' acting career following the success of Netflix's "Adolescence." He received an Emmy nomination for his role in the series, which led to major parts in U.S. productions like M. Night Shyamalan's "Remain" and HBO's "Dune Prophecy." This period demanded an intense juggle, with Walters editing "Animol" remotely while traveling for acting commitments.

Despite the demanding schedule, Walters successfully completed "Animol," which premiered globally in Berlin. He shares that directing offers him a sense of peace and serenity, contrasting with the anxiety he experiences as a performer due to his naturally shy nature. This new phase feels like a long-awaited arrival for Walters, marking a significant culmination of his career.