Was Kit Connor Really the Acting Nemesis of This Netflix Star?

Kit Connor and Louis Partridge, two rising stars in the British acting scene, recently reflected on their early days as child actors and their journey to success. Growing up, they often found themselves competing for the same roles, creating a friendly rivalry. Today, both actors are thriving in their careers, with Partridge taking on the role of Mr Wickham in Netflix’s adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, while Connor is celebrated for his lead role in Heartstopper. Their shared history has blossomed into a strong friendship, showcasing how childhood competition can pave the way for mutual success.

Last updated: 19 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Louis Partridge and Kit Connor frequently auditioned together as child actors.
• Partridge will portray Mr Wickham in Netflix’s Pride and Prejudice adaptation.
• Both actors have successfully transitioned from childhood roles to leading characters.
• Their rivalry has turned into a supportive friendship over the years.
• Partridge's casting as Wickham has garnered mixed reactions due to his age.

The Early Days: A Competitive Landscape

In the competitive world of child acting, Kit Connor and Louis Partridge repeatedly crossed paths. Partridge, who is now 22, recalls their experiences fondly, noting how both were often accompanied by their mothers during auditions. “For a long time, my acting nemesis was Kit Connor,” Partridge joked, highlighting the light-hearted nature of their rivalry.

This friendly competition began when they were just teenagers, both aspiring to carve out a successful career in acting. Partridge remembers a specific audition that marked one of their early encounters. “I must have been 13,” he shared, recalling the nerves he felt while waiting to perform a prepared monologue. It was during this audition that he first met Connor, who was also vying for the same role.

Growing Careers: From Child Stars to Leading Roles

Both actors have made significant strides in their careers since those early days. Kit Connor's breakout role came in Netflix's Heartstopper, where he plays the lead character opposite Joe Locke. The show has received critical acclaim and has resonated with audiences for its heartwarming narrative and authentic representation of LGBTQ+ youth.

On the other hand, Louis Partridge gained recognition for his role as Tewkesbury in the Enola Holmes series, starring alongside Millie Bobby Brown. His portrayal of the charming yet adventurous character has endeared him to a younger audience, further enhancing his popularity in the industry.

Louis Partridge: Stepping into Mr Wickham's Shoes

With his career trajectory rising, Partridge's latest role as Mr Wickham in the upcoming Netflix adaptation of Pride and Prejudice has sparked a buzz. The character of Wickham is notorious for his manipulative charm and questionable intentions towards the young Lydia Bennet. This role presents a unique challenge for Partridge, especially given the complexity of Wickham's character.

Some fans have expressed concerns regarding the casting of a younger actor in such a morally ambiguous role. Critics argue that Partridge’s age could dilute the intensity of Wickham's predatory actions. However, Partridge addressed these concerns in a recent interview with Variety, stating, “Yeah, he is a bit of a s**t … but I think he possibly means all the lovely things he says to girls before he leaves them.” This perspective suggests a nuanced interpretation that could bring depth to the character.

The Evolution of Their Friendship

What began as rivalry has transformed into a supportive friendship between Connor and Partridge. In a recent interview for VMAN, they reminisced about their early days in the audition rooms, with Connor admitting he did not remember their first encounters as vividly as Partridge. Their bond illustrates the importance of camaraderie in a competitive industry.

As both actors continue to flourish in their careers, they exemplify how friendly competition can lead to strong relationships. Their shared experiences have not only helped them navigate the challenges of the acting world but have also fostered a lasting friendship. “We are really good buddies now,” Partridge remarked, emphasising the positive outcome of their childhood rivalry.

The Broader Impact of Their Careers

As they gain prominence, both Connor and Partridge have become role models for aspiring young actors. Their journeys highlight the importance of resilience and perseverance in an industry marked by rejection and competition. The success of shows like Heartstopper and films like Enola Holmes showcases the demand for diverse storytelling and representation in modern media.

Moreover, their experiences resonate with many young people who face obstacles while pursuing their dreams. Partridge's recent rise to fame has also led him to the pop culture sphere, being spotted frequently with Olivia Rodrigo, further broadening his fanbase beyond just acting.

What’s Next for the Duo?

Looking ahead, both actors have promising projects lined up. Partridge's portrayal of Wickham is highly anticipated, and his upcoming role in Steven Knight’s new Netflix drama, House of Guinness, adds to the excitement surrounding his career. Meanwhile, Connor continues to enjoy the success of Heartstopper, which is set to conclude with a final movie, drawing to a close the beloved story that captured the hearts of many.

As they navigate this new chapter in their careers, it will be interesting to see how their paths evolve and whether their camaraderie will continue to flourish in the face of new challenges. Will their rivalry ever reignite, or will they continue to support each other as they reach new heights? Only time will tell.

FAQs

What roles are Kit Connor and Louis Partridge known for?

Kit Connor is best known for his lead role in Netflix's Heartstopper, while Louis Partridge gained fame as Tewkesbury in the Enola Holmes series.

How did Kit Connor and Louis Partridge meet?

The two actors first met during auditions when they were around 13 years old, often competing for the same roles.

What character does Louis Partridge play in Pride and Prejudice?

Louis Partridge plays Mr Wickham, a charming yet morally ambiguous character in Netflix's adaptation of Pride and Prejudice.

How has their friendship developed over the years?

The childhood rivalry between Connor and Partridge has evolved into a supportive friendship as they both navigate their careers in acting.

What are the upcoming projects for Kit Connor and Louis Partridge?

Louis Partridge will appear in House of Guinness and portray Mr Wickham, while Kit Connor will continue with Heartstopper's final movie.