Hollyoaks and ‘I’m a Celebrity’ star, Owen Warner, came back to his home town of Leicester to inspire students at the college where he learned his acting skills.
Owen studied Level 3 Acting with SMB College Group, formally known as Brooksby Melton College, achieving a Distinction in 2017 before going on to land the role of Romeo in Hollyoaks in 2018. During his studies, he also starred in many roles at the college’s own Melton Theatre, including Cinderella, 1984, Hamlet, and Rock of Ages.
Last year, the star placed second on ITV’s I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, quickly becoming a fan-favourite with his hilarious comments and determination. However, recently he went back to the college to visit his old lecturers and offer valuable advice to current students.
During his visit Owen took part in a Q&A with current Performing Arts students, speaking about his time at the college, getting his part in Hollyoaks, his time in the Jungle, the industry, and his hopes for the future of his own career.
Owen gave the students some insider tips surrounding rehearsals and getting parts, advising them on contracts in the industry and preparing them for the future.
About his time at the College, Owen said, “SMB College Group is really where I got my experience – acting constantly and doing regular performances. In those two years, I learned so much about acting and the industry, and it prepared me really well. I then went to Uni but I was only there for 4 or 5 months before I got the part in Hollyoaks. So, I had that time at Uni, but mainly, my acting experience came from this college – and it really prepared me for Hollyoaks.
Melton Theatre Manager, Arnie Breen, said “It was great to see Owen again. He has kept in touch since he left the college and was more than happy to call in and speak to our current Performing Arts students. Let’s hope they take some of his valuable advice!
“Owen is a great example to any students who wish to pursue a career in performing, his dedication and focus on his career goals is great to see. He was exactly like that when he was a student here and took every opportunity we gave him to perform and learn. He was so humble and grateful for all he learnt while he was here and this has carried on into his professional life. We wish Owen all the very best for his future and hope to see him back at the college/theatre in the future.”
