The show has struck a chord with audiences for its authentic portrayal of young people and life in Merseyside.
Philip, 37, born and bred in Kirkby, credits his time at Edge Hill with shaping both his career and his approach to acting. Now working professionally across stage, television and film, he describes G’wed as a particularly meaningful project.
Philip commented: “It’s been a wonderful experience to see people from the region represented so well on TV, seeing young people being represented so positively has been incredibly rewarding.” The third series is due to air on ITVX later this year.
The series’ BAFTA nomination marked a significant milestone in Philip’s career, one he describes as a ‘bucket-list moment’, and reflects years of perseverance, preparation and professional growth.
Philip’s career reached an international audience when he appeared in the acclaimed US television series The Alienist, working alongside actors including Dakota Fanning, Luke Evans, Daniel Brühl and Martin Freeman.
“It was my first major role working away from home and on such a large-scale production,” he said. “The set felt like visiting Universal Studios. Daunting, but absolutely unforgettable.”
He also cites experiences working with actors such as Stephen Graham on Being Keegan as formative moments, highlighting the importance of humility, professionalism and respect on set.
Philip has no shortage of ambition and is passionate about continuing to explore a wide range of character roles.
“All I have ever wanted is to be a character actor and try different things,” he said. “The characters I’ve played – Mr Dunn in G’wed, Ian in The Responder and Fat Jack in The Alienist – are poles apart.”
His appetite for versatility extends across genres, from horror to comic-book worlds.
“John Constantine is a character in the DC Universe I would love to play if I can’t be The Batman,” he added.
One role, in particular, continues to inspire him.
“I’ve always believed I could be The Doctor,” he said. “Who knows what’s around the corner?”
Looking ahead, Philip is keen to continue building on his screen success and hopes to collaborate with leading creatives in the industry, including directors such as Christopher Nolan.
Philip’s route into acting was not a conventional one. He initially enrolled at Edge Hill to train as a nurse, inspired by more than a decade spent caring for his Nan.
However, while performing in a community play at Liverpool’s Everyman Theatre, he was encouraged to explore drama more seriously and made the decision to change course. After transferring to drama, Philip went on to complete a PCET PGCE and a Masters in education at Edge Hill, experiences he says strengthened his discipline, focus and work ethic.
Philip said: “I swapped courses to the one I was meant to do and it was the best decision I ever made. Edge Hill gave me a sense of belonging. I genuinely grew into the person I am today there.”
During his studies, Philip co-founded Edge of Your Seat Productions, a student-led theatre company supported by the Performing Arts Department. The company produced Our Day Out and later toured Alice in Wonderland, providing valuable opportunities for students to perform and collaborate.
“We had the talent and the facilities, just not the extra-curricular opportunities at the time,” he explained. “If any of us were going to be successful, I realised it would be by doing it together.”
This ethos of initiative and teamwork carried into Philip’s early career, which included theatre work, pantomime and supporting artist roles in television. Though challenging, he describes this period as essential preparation.
“Those early years built tenacity and grit. Watching established actors prepare on set was an education in itself.”
Philip remains a passionate advocate for Edge Hill University, having previously worked as a student ambassador and returning to campus whenever possible.
“I genuinely love the University and recommend it to anyone. If you want somewhere that feels like a home away from home, Edge Hill is the place.”
Looking to the future, Philip is keen to continue exploring varied character roles across genres, while remaining grounded in the values instilled during his time at Edge Hill.
“Talent gets your first job. Hard work gets you the rest.”
Find out more about studying Drama at Edge Hill University.
January 23, 2026
