A familiar face from Weatherfield caused a stir among British viewers at a top-tier table during last week's star-studded Critics' Choice Awards in Los Angeles. While the audience rose to celebrate Jessie Buckley's Best Actress win, the camera also captured former Coronation Street star Katy Cavanagh, who has undergone a remarkable career transformation.
From Julie Carp to Showbiz Momager
Best known to soap fans for her seven-year stint playing the bubbly Julie Carp on the iconic Manchester cobbles, the 52-year-old actress has successfully reinvented herself. She is now a Hollywood 'momager' – a hybrid role combining mother and manager – dedicating herself to the careers of her two talented sons.
Her sons, Noah, 20, and Jacobi Jupe, 12, are poised to become the toast of Tinseltown thanks to their pivotal roles in the highly praised film Hamnet. The period drama, which also stars Buckley and Paul Mescal, has garnered multiple award nominations, including at the upcoming Golden Globes.
A Family Affair on Screen
In the emotional film, young Jacobi takes on the title role of Shakespeare's son, who died aged 11. His older brother, Noah, plays an actor performing Hamlet – the Bard's play believed to have been inspired by that personal tragedy. Their mother, who accompanied Jacobi to the Critics' Choice ceremony, has been instrumental in their success.
An industry insider revealed the extent of her commitment: 'She's put everything into helping the boys have the best start in the industry. She's put her own career on the back burner to help them realise their dreams.' The source added that while Cavanagh's UK fame didn't open Hollywood doors, her relentless support and guidance were crucial.
Nurturing Talent from Quiet Place to Shakespeare
Noah is already an established young actor with an impressive 26 film and TV credits. His resume includes roles in the A Quiet Place horror franchise and projects alongside A-listers like Nicole Kidman, George Clooney, and Hugh Grant. However, it was Jacobi who was first cast in Hamnet by acclaimed director Chloe Zhao.
When the production began filming without an actor for the role of Hamlet, Cavanagh suggested Noah. 'Two months into their shoot and I got a call from my mum and Chloe, and they're very giddy and smiling,' Noah told Time magazine. 'They say to me, 'How would you feel about playing Hamlet?' It was obviously something you just cannot turn down.'
Both brothers are profoundly grateful for their parents' support. Jacobi stated, 'Honestly, I don't know how I would be here if it weren't for them,' while Noah credited his mother and father, producer Chris Jupe, for his career choices and mental wellbeing.
As the Jupe family basks in critical acclaim for Hamnet, their story is a testament to a mother's strategic shift from in-front-of-the-camera success to behind-the-scenes mentorship, crafting a new legacy in the heart of Hollywood.
