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Teen Actor Juggles GCSEs and Hollywood Stardom
5 Jan
Summary
- Owen Cooper, 16, is the youngest Critics Choice winner.
- He balances acting with upcoming GCSE exams.
- His friends remain unfazed by his Hollywood success.
Sixteen-year-old Owen Cooper continues to make waves in Hollywood, recently securing the youngest Critics Choice Award for Best Supporting Actor on January 4, 2026. This achievement follows his historic win as the youngest male Primetime Emmy Award recipient the previous year for his role in "Adolescence." Despite global recognition and rubbing shoulders with A-listers, Cooper remains committed to his roots in North West England.
Cooper's life is a testament to balancing extraordinary success with ordinary responsibilities. While filming "Adolescence," he received tutoring on set to prepare for his upcoming GCSE exams in 2026. Unlike some peers who pursue acting full-time, he plans to complete his studies before fully dedicating himself to acting, aiming to finish his exams by late June.
Back home in Warrington, Cheshire, Cooper's friendships remain a grounding force. He shared that his friends are largely unfazed by his fame, with teachers expressing more excitement. This grounding influence helps him navigate the surreal experience of being a young star, proving that even global recognition can't change true friendships or the importance of completing high school.
