Jessie Buckley Reflects on Her Oscar-Tipped Turn in 'Hamnet' and Upcoming Reunion With Maggie Gyllenhaal

The 36-year-old Irish actress discusses her journey from a BBC talent show to acclaimed roles in films like 'Wild Rose,' 'The Lost Daughter' and 'Women Talking'.

Feb. 24, 2026 at 1:55am

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Jessie Buckley, this year's best actress Oscar frontrunner for her portrayal of Agnes Shakespeare in Chloe Zhao's Hamnet, is an Irish stage and screen actress who has been praised for her versatile and powerful performances. In a conversation, she reflects on her early career, including her start on a BBC talent show, and how she has grown as an actress through roles in films like Beast, Wild Rose, The Lost Daughter, and Women Talking. She also discusses her upcoming reunion with Maggie Gyllenhaal in the film The Bride and how that experience shaped her work in Hamnet.

Why it matters

Buckley's rise to prominence as a leading actress has been marked by her ability to take on complex, emotionally demanding roles that explore the human experience in raw and authentic ways. Her performance in Hamnet has earned her widespread critical acclaim and award recognition, solidifying her status as one of the most exciting and versatile actors of her generation.

The details

Buckley, who was born in Cork, Ireland and raised in Killarney, discovered her passion for the arts at a young age, initially drawn to music and theater before finding her calling in Shakespearean drama. After a stint on a BBC talent show, she was mentored by theater producer Cameron Mackintosh and attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. Her breakthrough roles came in films like Beast, Wild Rose, and The Lost Daughter, which showcased her range and depth as an actress. Most recently, her performance in Hamnet as the wife of William Shakespeare has earned her widespread acclaim and award recognition, including a Golden Globe, Critics' Choice, and BAFTA win, as well as an Oscar nomination.

  • Buckley was a finalist on the BBC talent show 'I'd Do Anything' in 2008 at the age of 17.
  • Buckley attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art from 2010 to 2013.
  • Buckley's first major film role was in the 2017 movie 'Beast'.
  • Buckley starred in the 2018 film 'Wild Rose', for which she received a BAFTA nomination.
  • Buckley appeared in the 2021 film 'The Lost Daughter', earning BAFTA, Spirit, and Oscar nominations.

The players

Jessie Buckley

An Irish stage and screen actress who has received widespread critical acclaim for her versatile and powerful performances in films like 'Wild Rose,' 'The Lost Daughter,' and 'Hamnet'.

Cameron Mackintosh

A prominent British theater producer who mentored Buckley and helped her attend the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.

Dame Judi Dench

A renowned British actress who Buckley admired and observed during her time working in the theater.

Maggie Gyllenhaal

An American actress and filmmaker who directed Buckley in the upcoming film 'The Bride' and has been an important collaborator and mentor.

Christian Bale

A celebrated British actor who co-starred with Buckley in 'The Bride'.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

Jessie Buckley's rise to prominence as a leading actress has been marked by her ability to take on complex, emotionally demanding roles that explore the human experience in raw and authentic ways. Her acclaimed performance in 'Hamnet' has solidified her status as one of the most exciting and versatile actors of her generation.