Actress Erin Doherty, famed for playing Princess Anne in Netflix's The Crown, has unveiled an unexpected connection to one of Britain's best-loved comedians. The 33-year-old star has revealed that Romesh Ranganathan once served as her Head of Sixth Form at Hazelwick School in Three Bridges.
From 'Mr Ranganathan' to Comedy Star
During a joint interview with her co-star Malachi Kirby on Sky News, Doherty explained that the now 47-year-old comedian worked as a maths teacher at her old school. While she never had him as a teacher herself, her sister did. His role, however, was far more significant in her final school years. "He was my head of sixth form, my head of year," she confirmed, expressing her amazement at the link.
The revelation came as Doherty promotes the second season of the Disney+ period drama A Thousand Blows. She recounted a specific memory involving the future comedy star, which stemmed from a teenage academic misstep. "I got kicked off of English lit because I didn't read any of the books," she admitted. The consequence was a formal meeting. "They pulled me, and I think it was my dad, in. So we had a chat with Romesh Ranganathan when he was just Mr Ranganathan."
A Famous Alumni List and Hopes for a Reunion
Doherty's nostalgic confession highlights a fascinating crossover between the worlds of education and entertainment. When asked if she has crossed paths with Ranganathan since they both found fame, she responded, "No and I want to! But yeah it's kind of cool." She isn't the only notable name to have passed through Hazelwick School's doors. The institution also counts England football manager Gareth Southgate, broadcaster Dan Walker, and singer Chico among its former pupils.
The actress is currently starring in A Thousand Blows, which returned for its second season on Disney+ on 9th January 2026. The series, set in late 19th-century London, tells the true story of Jamaican immigrant and bare-knuckle boxer Hezekiah Moscow, played by Malachi Kirby. Doherty takes on the role of Mary Carr, the leader of the notorious Forty Elephants gang.
About 'A Thousand Blows'
Inspired by real historical figures from the 1880s, the drama has been praised by viewers as "an adrenaline-fueled, character-driven masterpiece." The plot sees Hezekiah quickly form a fierce rivalry with the ruthless boxer Henry 'Sugar' Goodson, portrayed by Stephen Graham—whom fans have called "ridiculously underrated." Doherty's character, Mary Carr, adds a layer of complex dynamics to the brutal world of underground boxing.
Erin Doherty's journey from a school meeting with her future-famous head of year to starring in major television dramas underscores the unpredictable paths to stardom. Her story offers a charming glimpse into the past of two of the UK's prominent entertainment figures.
