Actress Jodie Comer has shared an emotional message with fans after accepting the Award for Outstanding Achievement in British Theatre at the UK Theatre Awards 2026. The Liverpool-born star was recognised for her performance in the one-woman play Prima Facie.
Full circle moment
Earlier this year, the curtain came down for the final time on Comer's role as Tessa in the award-winning play after four years. It was a full circle moment for the actress to close the chapter on a character so close to her heart at the Liverpool Playhouse back in March.
After receiving the award for her contribution to theatre, Comer shared a heartwarming message with fans. She also shared a candid admission to her younger self, as she reflected on her career in theatre.
'How lucky I am'
She said: "Thank you to the UK Theatre Awards for the honour of 'Outstanding Achievement' in Theatre. I proudly accepted this yesterday, with these two legends on behalf of myself and the entire PRIMA FACIE team."
Comer reflected on her early career and how she did not let her lack of formal drama school training stop her. She told fans: "I was struck by the thought yesterday that for a good chunk of time, the reason of being not 'classically trained' seemed to be a hindrance to me being successful in securing theatre roles.
"I don't say this with any ounce of bitterness, those opportunities were clearly never meant. I say it in recognition of how lucky I am to have been met with this level of trust, belief and support during this experience. Ohhhhhh if I could tell that girl all that I know now!"
She added: "Having to think of what to say yesterday got me reflecting a lot, so I thought I would get candid and share some things as I close this chapter."
Fan and peer reactions
The post featured a carousel of photos of Comer through the years, including one of her as a young girl. It was liked by thousands of fans, including stars Dawn French and Amanda Holden.
One fan called Claudia said: "Oh if baby Jodie could see where she goes" while a second called Sophie wrote: "We are so lucky to get to see art like yours in this lifetime. Well done sweetie pie."
A third said: "Seeing you receive your flowers so deservingly on this epic journey has been nothing short of inspiring and utterly beautiful."
Liverpool-born actor Ellis Howard, who was nominated for a BAFTA this year for his role in What It Feels Like for a Girl, also added red love heart emojis.
Liverpool Playhouse tribute
Liverpool Playhouse's official account also took to social media to congratulate Comer. It said: "A huge congratulations @jodiemcomer who has been named as the inaugural recipient of the Outstanding Achievement in British Theatre Award.
"The Prima Facie tour was a landmark moment for British theatre, and we are incredibly proud that its journey finished with a homecoming at Liverpool Playhouse.
"In addition to a remarkable central performance, the production created space for vital conversations, from the role of regional theatres in bringing world-class work to communities, to consent workshops and discussions around some of the play's most challenging themes. Its impact reached far beyond the stage, and we're proud that those conversations happened here in Liverpool."
It added: "A truly deserved honour for an extraordinary artist."
