Soaps, Stages, and Stardom: Aidan O'Callaghan on Exploring the Human Condition Through Acting.

Whilst the modern entertainment industry may be an overstimulating flow of limitless productions, you may need to be more inspired by a repetitive revolving door of actors. Yet, if you look closer, you’ll see the captivating emerging talent ready to leave their mark in the industry. Among the wave of up-and-coming performers, notably lies rising star Aidan O’Callaghan. The accomplished Irish’s career spans various genres and mediums, from hard-hitting soap opera storylines to acclaimed independent films and major international productions. Known for his emotionally charged performances and ability to bring complexity to every role, Aidan has quickly become a standout talent in the entertainment industry. With a background as a trained pharmacist and a passion for meaningful storytelling, he has carved out a unique path, blending empathy and authenticity into every project he takes on. 

From captivating audiences in EastEnders with a storyline that tackled the complexities of sexual consent to earning critical acclaim in the award-winning short film A Simple Killing, Aidan has a knack for taking on roles that demand depth, empathy, and courage. Whether navigating the fast-paced world of soaps, bringing larger-than-life characters to fantasy epics like The Witcher, or exploring the shadows of human nature in psychological dramas, Aidan’s journey is fueled by an insatiable curiosity and a relentless drive to push boundaries.

With a blend of charm, intensity, and unrelenting dedication, Aidan O’Callaghan is carving a niche all his own—one powerful, unforgettable role at a time.

Credits: Photography: Eddie Blagbrough, Styling: André DeVeaux, Grooming: Nadia Altinbas

Your storyline, as Lewis Butler in EastEnders, tackled the critical issue of sexual consent. What drew you to this role, and how did you navigate the challenges of portraying such a sensitive and impactful topic?

I remember telling my agent I‘d love to do a stint on a popular soap with a really dramatic storyline that involved one of the major families. This role ticked all those boxes so I was buzzed once I was cast. I was drawn to the character because of the storyline and character arc. Working with the iconic Mitchell family was an incredible opportunity. 

To prepare for this sensitive topic, I immersed myself in the experiences of survivors, working closely with organisations like Male Survivors Partnership and Survivors UK. Hearing their stories was both heart-wrenching and eye-opening, leaving a profound impact on me as an actor and a person. These encounters shaped my approach to portraying Lewis, driving me to create a character that was not just complex and engaging but also authentic to the experiences of those affected by such trauma. I aimed to breathe life into Lewis in a way that respected the gravity of the issue while also challenging viewers' perceptions. I wanted to show how a charming exterior could mask darker aspects, reflecting the often complicated nature of consent and assault. This complexity allowed us to delve into the nuanced and often misunderstood aspects of these issues.

The Reckoning of Erin Morrigan is an intense and deeply emotional project. What can you share about your experience working alongside Olwen Fouéré and exploring the themes of reckoning with one's past?

Working on The Reckoning of Erin Morrigan has been an incredibly intense and emotionally charged experience. Collaborating with the talented Olwen Fouéré has been nothing short of inspiring. Her depth as an actor and her approach to the material elevated the entire project. It was a joy to work with director Gabrielle Russell, too. She offered me the role as I had seen my previous work, and I was so excited when she told me I would be working opposite Olwen. The project is in the final stages of post-production, so I can’t give a lot away, but the intensity of the subject matter created a unique bond among the cast and crew, and I’m excited about it.

You're the only Irish actor to feature in two iconic UK soaps, EastEnders and Emmerdale. How does working on a soap differ from a film or a series like The Rook and The Witcher, and what have you learned from these experiences?

In soaps, the pace is so fast. They often film multiple episodes per week, with multiple teams per day, which requires quick memorisation, adaptability, and the ability to jump between emotional states rapidly and in complete random time orders. You generally get one rehearsal and one or - if lucky- two takes for each scene, so preparation is key. There's also the challenge of building a character over time, sometimes with storylines that evolve unexpectedly and change last minute. In contrast, films and series like The Witcher often allow for more preparation time and deeper character exploration before filming begins working with different teams weeks in advance, including stunt teams, prosthetics, etc. There's usually a clear arc from the start, which allows for a different kind of character development process.

These experiences have taught me invaluable lessons. Soaps have honed my ability to work efficiently under pressure and to maintain character consistency over long periods. They've also improved my improvisation skills and taught me to trust my instincts. On the other hand, being cast and working on films and larger series after soaps has allowed me to delve deeper into character backstories and motivations and to work with different directorial styles. Also, the huge film sets are just so much fun! 

Some people can be snobby about soaps, which I never quite understand. After my time on EastEnders and Emmerdale, I’ve been fortunate to see so many opportunities and new projects come my way, and for that, I’ll always be grateful. 

A Simple Killing has garnered significant acclaim, recently winning Best Short Film at the Waterford International Film Festival and competing at the Foyle Film Festival. What does this recognition mean to you and the team behind the project?

The recognition A Simple Killing has received, particularly winning Best Short Film at the Waterford International Film Festival and being selected for an Oscar and BAFTA qualifying festival, is immensely gratifying. It's a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication of director Jason Branagan and the entire cast and crew.

It's particularly meaningful to receive acclaim in Ireland, given the film's roots and the themes it explores around domestic abuse. These accolades also provide valuable exposure for independent filmmaking, helping to shine a light on stories that might otherwise struggle to find an audience. Ultimately, this recognition fuels our passion and motivates us to continue pushing boundaries in our storytelling. It's a reminder of why we do what we do and the potential impact of our work.

With your diverse portfolio spanning fantasy, drama, and thrillers, how do you decide which roles to pursue, and is there a genre you'd love to explore next?

First and foremost, I look for characters and stories that challenge me as an actor and have the potential to resonate deeply with audiences. I'm drawn to roles that offer complexity and allow me to explore different facets of the human experience.

The script is crucial, I think – I look for well-written, nuanced characters and compelling narratives. I also consider the overall message or theme of the project. Does it say something meaningful? Does it have the potential to spark conversations afterwards? Or sometimes, is it simply entertaining and interesting? Another factor is the creative team involved. Working with directors, writers, and fellow actors who are passionate and innovative can elevate a project. I often would look at a director’s previous work - if the script draws me in and the director has a talented vision – I’m game!

As for a genre, I'd love to explore next, I'm particularly interested in delving deeper into more psychological thrillers. The complexity of the human mind and the tension these stories can create fascinate me. Additionally, I'd be excited to take on a role in a period drama. The challenge of immersing oneself in a different era, with its unique societal norms and ways of communication, is something I find incredibly fun. I’d also jump at a Christmas Hallmark movie. My bucket list keeps on growing!

Credits: Photography: Eddie Blagbrough, Styling: André DeVeaux, Grooming: Nadia Altinbas

You've been part of both independent films and major productions like The Rook (Starz), and Wolfe (SKY) Witcher (Netflix). How do these experiences compare, and what do you value most about each type of project?

Being part of both independent films and major productions like Wolfe on Sky TV and The Witcher on Netflix has provided me with a rich and varied acting experience. These different worlds offer distinct environments, each with its own set of challenges and rewards.

In independent films, there's often a sense of intimacy and creative freedom that's truly special. The smaller scale usually means a tighter-knit cast and crew, fostering a collaborative atmosphere where everyone's input is valued. There's often more room for experimentation and risk-taking in storytelling. Budget constraints spark creativity, forcing innovative solutions to bring the vision to life. 

On the other hand, major productions like The Witcher offer a different kind of excitement. The scale is grander, with impressive sets, elaborate costumes, and cutting-edge technology at your disposal with weeks of precision sometimes. These projects often have the resources to bring fantastical worlds to life in a way that's truly awe-inspiring and so much fun to work on. There's also the opportunity to work with a diverse range of highly skilled professionals, from renowned directors to expert stunt coordinators. The reach of these productions is typically wider, offering the chance to connect with a global audience.

Ultimately, both types of projects contribute significantly to my growth as an actor. The variety keeps me on my toes and continually expands my skill set!

In today's entertainment landscape, how do you see the role of actors in addressing social issues, both on and off-screen?

I think it’s good to remember that our primary job is to entertain. Sometimes, a role is simply about bringing joy or excitement to an audience. Other times, it carries a deeper social message. The key is to try and find a balance and approach each role with authenticity, I find.

Off-screen, our public visibility can sometimes be used to draw attention to various causes. However, we're not experts on every issue we portray or discuss. Our role is to try and amplify the voices of those who are truly knowledgeable - the activists, researchers, and individuals directly affected by these issues. Ultimately, I see actors as storytellers and conversation starters. We have the privilege of bringing stories to life that can touch hearts and open minds, whether they're purely for entertainment or carry a deeper social message.

Balancing acting with your background as a trained pharmacist is fascinating. How has your experience in pharmacy shaped your approach to acting or life in general?

My background in pharmacy has had a great influence on my acting career and my perspective on life. Having worked in various pharmacy environments, including A&E, local pharmacies, and hospital wards, I think that interacting with patients during vulnerable moments has deepened my empathy and understanding of the human condition. I believe these encounters provide rich emotional material to try and draw from in my performances. It’s incredible how much you learn about people when they share their stories in a hospital or pharmacy. Ultimately, I think my pharmacy background helps me somewhat try to ground my storytelling in reality. 

Many actors find certain roles cathartic or personally meaningful. Have any of your roles left a lasting emotional impact on you?

Several roles have left a profound and lasting emotional impact on me. As actors, I find that we often invest a significant part of ourselves into the characters we portray, and this deep engagement can lead to powerful, sometimes transformative experiences.

One role that particularly affected me was Lewis Butler in EastEnders as well as Terry in A Simple Killing. Tackling the sensitive issues of sexual consent and domestic abuse was both challenging and deeply impactful. The research process exposed me to real-life stories and statistics that were eye-opening and often honestly quite heartbreaking. Portraying these characters often forced me to confront uncomfortable truths about human behaviour.

My work on The Reckoning of Erin Morrigan also had a significant emotional impact. The themes of confronting one's past and seeking redemption resonated deeply with me. It prompted me to reflect on my own life choices and the concept of personal growth and change. The emotional residue from these roles often lingers long after filming has wrapped I think. Ultimately, I try my best to leave the character at the door when I leave, but sometimes, it is easier said than done!

With The Reckoning of Erin Morrigan and A Simple Killing making waves, what excites you most about these projects, and what do you hope audiences take away from them?

I'm incredibly excited about both The Reckoning of Erin Morrigan and A Simple Killing, as they represent powerful storytelling in different ways.

With The Reckoning of Erin Morrigan, what excites me most is the depth of emotional exploration the film offers. It's a project that delves into the complexities of human nature, particularly focusing on themes of reconciliation with one's past. The opportunity to work alongside the talented Olwen Fouéré has been extraordinary. A Simple Killing, on the other hand, excites me because of its tight, impactful storytelling in the short film 'Dramatic Tension Throughout' format. The recognition it has received and now being selected for a BAFTA & Oscar-qualifying festival – that is very exciting!