Phil Dunster of Ted Lasso discusses how school sparked his passion for drama

Phil Dunster, known for his role as Jamie Tartt in the hit show Ted Lasso, recently shared how his passion for acting began to take shape during his school days at Leighton Park School in Reading. Speaking with BBC Radio Berkshire, Dunster reflected on a pivotal moment he experienced while performing Dylan Thomas’ Under Milk Wood at the school, noting the influence of his drama teachers, Geraint Thomas and Damon Young.

Recalling the transformative experience, Dunster described watching the school assembly hall transform into a Welsh fishing village during the play, which sparked his realization of the power of acting. He emphasized the importance of having a space to explore and express oneself creatively, attributing his decision to pursue acting seriously to the impactful moments he had at school.

After rejecting a plan to join the Army, Dunster went on to attend the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School to further hone his craft. Sharing insights into his audition process for the role of Jamie Tartt, Dunster revealed that he initially thought the character required a Spanish accent, but ultimately adopted a Mancunian accent for the role. Drawing inspiration from a friend’s accent and his fiancee’s Manchester roots, Dunster’s portrayal of Tartt has been a fan favorite.

As fans eagerly anticipate the fourth season of Ted Lasso, Dunster remained uncertain about the future of his character, emphasizing that the upcoming season is yet to be written. Despite the uncertainty, Dunster’s journey from his school days to becoming a beloved TV star serves as a reminder of the impact teachers and supportive environments can have on nurturing a passion for the arts.

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