Hannah Onslow has quickly become one of the UK’s most talked-about young actress, thanks to a string of acclaimed performances across film and television. In 2025, her role as Diana Williams in the BBC’s hit crime drama This City Is Ours has cemented her status as a rising star. With her nuanced performances, commitment to her craft, and ability to bring complex characters to life, Onslow is capturing the attention of critics and viewers alike.

Early Life and Training

Born in Romford, Greater London, in 1998, Hannah Lucy Onslow’s journey to the screen began with a passion for the arts nurtured from a young age. She attended the BRIT School, a renowned institution for creative talent, before earning a Bachelor of Arts in Acting from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in 2019. This solid foundation has shaped her approach to acting and given her the tools to tackle a wide range of roles.

A Rapid Rise: From Supporting Roles to Leading Lady

Onslow’s television debut came in 2020 with a guest appearance on the long-running BBC series Call the Midwife. She quickly followed this with roles in Ridley Road, a BBC drama about Jewish opposition to British fascism, and This Is Going to Hurt, the BAFTA-winning series based on Adam Kay’s memoir. In This Is Going to Hurt, Onslow played Erika van Hegen, a young pregnant woman whose story became central to the drama’s emotional impact.

Her film career began with a notable supporting role as Janine in Sam Mendes’ Empire of Light, where she appeared alongside Olivia Colman, Michael Ward, and Colin Firth. This critically acclaimed film, nominated for both Academy and Golden Globe awards, introduced Onslow to a global audience. She continued to build her filmography with roles in Unicorns (2024) and a brief appearance in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023).

The Breakthrough: This City Is Ours

2025 marked a turning point for Onslow with her casting as Diana Williams in This City Is Ours, the BBC’s Liverpool-set crime drama that has become one of the year’s most-watched and discussed series. The show, created by Stephen Butchard and filmed on location in Liverpool and Spain, explores the world of organised crime through the eyes of Michael Kavanagh (James Nelson-Joyce) and his partner Diana, played by Onslow.

At the heart of the story is the relationship between Michael and Diana, which Onslow describes as “really special, beautifully written and a complete joy to do”. Diana is portrayed as a resilient, intelligent sommelier with a complex inner life. Onslow has spoken about the challenge and excitement of playing a character with both toughness and vulnerability, saying Diana “has a steel rod going straight through the core of her, but also has this enormous vulnerability”.

The series has resonated with audiences, drawing an average of 6.6 million viewers per episode and becoming the BBC’s most popular new drama launch of the year. Onslow’s performance has been widely praised, with critics highlighting her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her character. The chemistry between Onslow and her co-stars, especially James Nelson-Joyce and Sean Bean, has also contributed to the show’s success.

Perfecting the Scouse Accent

One of the most talked-about aspects of Onslow’s performance in This City Is Ours is her convincing Liverpudlian accent. Originally from Essex, Onslow worked closely with vocal coach Helen Ashton and immersed herself in Liverpool culture to master the accent. She has shared how her Scouse co-stars and the city itself helped her perfect the nuances of the dialect, noting that “Scousers will always tell you the truth”. This dedication has won her praise from both viewers and local critics, who have applauded her commitment to authenticity.

Expanding Horizons: Other Major Roles

While This City Is Ours has been a breakout moment, Onslow’s career continues to flourish across genres. In 2025, she also starred as Emily Dunn in ITVX’s period drama Belgravia: The Next Chapter, written by Julian Fellowes. Her versatility is evident in her ability to move from gritty contemporary dramas to historical pieces and independent films.

Onslow’s upcoming projects include a leading role in the short film The Second Time Around, directed by Jack Howard and co-starring Caroline Goodall. The film, set for festival release later this year, further showcases her range and ambition as an actor.

Industry Recognition and Future Prospects

Industry insiders and critics alike have noted Onslow’s rapid ascent. Her performances are marked by emotional honesty and a willingness to tackle challenging material. She has spoken openly about the importance of not letting her accent or background define her, striving instead to be recognised for her talent and dedication. This determination has helped her break through in an industry where typecasting can be a barrier for many young actors.

With a second series of This City Is Ours already confirmed by the BBC, Onslow’s profile is set to rise even further. As the show continues to capture the public imagination, she remains at the centre of the conversation about the future of British television drama.

Conclusion:

Hannah Onslow’s journey from Romford to the nation’s screens is a testament to talent, hard work, and resilience. Her standout roles in both film and television have made her one of the UK’s most promising young actors. As she continues to take on new challenges and win over audiences, Onslow is poised to become a defining face of British drama for years to come. With her star firmly on the rise, viewers and critics alike will be watching closely to see where her remarkable career leads next.

Read More: Kyle Walker: Uncertain Times for England’s Veteran Defender