 Tommy Jessop has delved into all sorts of fascinating stories in his career, from playing Terry Boyle in BBC's Line of Duty to breaking ground by becoming the first professional actor with Down syndrome to go on tour as Shakespearean anti-hero Hamlet. The performer is now embarking on one of his most exciting projects yet, heading all the way to Hollywood to achieve his aspiration of playing a superhero on the big screen. In his new BBC documentary Tommy Jessop Goes To Hollywood, the 38-year-old and his brother, filmmaker Will Jessop, set the wheels in motion as they strive to make the actor's dream of making his movie Roger the Superhero a reality. The brothers spoke to Metro.co.uk about their journey – which included meeting a stunt team, producers and Game of Thrones star Kit Harington – as well as their hopes for the beneficial influence that the programme could have for other people with Down syndrome. When asked about his hopes for the impact of the documentary, Tommy answered: 'I think it might have a big impact on people living with Down syndrome, hoping one day they might be superheroes as well. 'Or if not superheroes, you can also be whoever you want to be in life.' Tommy demonstrates his power wielding skills as Roger the superhero (Picture: Jane Jessop) Will added that they're hoping that they'll 'inspire' people, stating: 'Obviously not everyone is going to be able to be in a superhero movie, but we do think it's important that people have dreams and aspirations and we hope that this film will inspire people to follow their own dreams.' As for the impact that the film could have for people Down syndrome in wider society, Tommy referenced the activism that he does in his daily life, using the platform that he has as a well-known actor to give others a voice. 'I do speak up for people living with Down syndrome, to have a voice,' he shared. 'It's about time to get rid of any labels or ty){kind=link}
NEWS… BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT
Tommy Jessop has delved into all sorts of fascinating stories in his career, from playing Terry Boyle in BBC’s Line of Duty to breaking ground by becoming the first professional actor with Down syndrome to go on tour as Shakespearean anti-hero Hamlet.
The performer is now embarking on one of his most exciting projects yet, heading all the way to Hollywood to achieve his aspiration of playing a superhero on the big screen.
In his new BBC documentary Tommy Jessop Goes To Hollywood, the 38-year-old and his brother, filmmaker Will Jessop, set the wheels in motion as they strive to make the actor’s dream of making his movie Roger the Superhero a reality.
The brothers spoke to Metro.co.uk about their journey – which included meeting a stunt team, producers and Game of Thrones star Kit Harington – as well as their hopes for the beneficial influence that the programme could have for other people with Down syndrome.