Jessie Buckley, the Irish actor who first gained attention as a contestant on a BBC talent show, is now an Oscar nominee for her role in The Lost Daughter. The 32-year-old from County Kerry is nominated in the best supporting actress category for her portrayal of a discontented young mother in Maggie Gyllenhaal's film.
Buckley's performance has been praised by critics as a key element of the film. Observer critic Wendy Ide said it 'once again demonstrates that she is one of the most exciting actors of her generation'. Buckley plays the younger version of Leda, a character portrayed in later life by Olivia Colman.
Her co-star Jack Farthing described her as 'an extraordinary actor. Instinctive, authentic and free: the kind that elevates your own work immediately'. Buckley's journey to this point began in 2008 when she was runner-up on the BBC show I'd Do Anything, which sought to cast an unknown as Nancy in a West End production of Oliver!.
After losing the role, Buckley worked as a shop assistant and jazz singer to stay in London. She later found success on stage, earning acclaim for her role as Sally Bowles in Cabaret. The Financial Times called her performance 'career-defining', noting her rendition of the title song 'rips away all expectations of cheery resilience'.
Buckley now balances stage and screen work, with directors drawn to her 'beguilingly off-centre charisma'. If she does not win the Oscar, with Ariana DeBose also a strong contender, her career trajectory suggests patience will pay off.
