Adolescence Star Owen Cooper Says He Memorized Every Line Before His Audition, Arriving Without a Script for His Breakthrough Netflix Role

Adolescence star Owen Cooper has revealed how intensive preparation helped him secure his breakthrough role in Netflix’s critically acclaimed drama. Speaking during a live conversation with director Philip Barantini at Liverpool’s Epstein Theatre, the 16-year-old actor shared that he spent hours memorizing his audition script, arriving fully prepared without bringing the pages with him.

The event also gave Barantini an opportunity to explain why Cooper stood out among hundreds of aspiring actors and ultimately became the heart of one of Netflix’s biggest British dramas.

Owen Cooper’s Preparation Impressed the Creative Team

According to Barantini, the production reviewed around 500 audition tapes while searching for the actor who would portray Jamie Miller.

He told the audience:

“Every time Owen came back, he just stood out because of his raw ability and naturalism.”

Barantini explained that casting Jamie first was essential because the character’s regional accent would influence the casting of the rest of the Miller family, including Stephen Graham’s character.

Stephen Graham and Owen Cooper star in Netflix’s critically acclaimed drama Adolescence. (Image via Netflix).

One moment particularly convinced the director that Cooper had exceptional dedication.

Recalling the first read-through, Cooper said:

“I turned up without my script because I’d spent hours learning it… I just thought, I know it.”

Barantini admitted he initially wondered whether the young actor had forgotten his script before realizing he had memorized every line.

“Everyone else arrived with a script and Owen didn’t have one. I thought, ‘Has he forgotten it?’ He was just completely off book. At fourteen.”

Confidence Helped Him Land the Role

Cooper also reflected on his audition experience, admitting he felt nervous after seeing other actors leaving the casting room.

However, he credited Barantini and the production team for helping him settle.

“When I walked in, Philip and everyone shook my hand and made me feel comfortable straight away. That helped with my confidence.”

The actor added that instead of trying to guess what the casting team wanted, he simply focused on being himself.

Barantini praised that attitude, saying Cooper’s confidence remained unchanged despite the pressure of the audition process.

Staying Grounded After Global Success

Following Adolescence, Cooper has become one of Britain’s fastest-rising young actors, earning an Emmy nomination, winning a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor in a Television Series, and joining the cast of Wuthering Heights alongside Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi.

Despite the sudden fame, Cooper said he returned to school after filming because he wanted life to remain as normal as possible.

“I’ve gone back to school… I’m still seeing my mates and doing all the normal things. School’s always been important to me.”

He added that his teachers continue treating him like any other student, something he appreciates.

During filming, Cooper also developed a routine to prepare emotionally for difficult scenes, revealing he often listened to The Beatles, Oasis, and Arctic Monkeys before arriving on set.

With his grounded approach and commitment to preparation, Cooper’s breakout performance in Adolescence continues to be recognized as one of the defining television debuts of recent years.