Emma Mackey is a British and French actress known for her breakout role as Maeve Wiley in the Netflix series “Sex Education.” Here’s an overview of her life and career:
Early Life and Education
Emma Margaret Marie Tachard-Mackey was born around 1996 in Le Mans, France. Her father is French, and her mother is English. Growing up, her father worked as a school headmaster, and the family lived in Sablé-sur-Sarthe. Emma completed her baccalauréat in l’académie de Nantes with High Honours in 2013. Following this, she moved to England to pursue a degree in English language and literature at the University of Leeds, graduating in 2016.
Career
“Sex Education” (2019–2023)
Emma Mackey’s breakthrough role came with the Netflix comedy-drama series “Sex Education.” She played the character Maeve Wiley, an intelligent, quick-witted, and business-savvy student who, alongside Otis Milburn (played by Asa Butterfield), starts an underground sex therapy business at their school. Mackey’s portrayal of Maeve garnered critical acclaim and attention for her performance.
Film Roles
- “Eiffel” (2021): Emma appeared in this independent romantic drama film that premiered at the Alliance Française French Film Festival. The film has had international theatrical releases and grossed over $13 million worldwide.
- “Death on the Nile” (2022): She starred in this mystery thriller film, a sequel to “Murder on the Orient Express,” in the supporting role of Jacqueline de Bellefort.
- “Emily” (2022): Mackey had her first lead film role portraying the novelist Emily Brontë in this partly fictional film focusing on Brontë’s early life.
- “Barbie” (2023): Emma appeared in the fantasy comedy film “Barbie.”
Awards and Recognition
- In 2021, Mackey received a British Academy Television Award nomination for her role in “Sex Education.”
- She won a National Comedy Award in 2022.
- Mackey won the BAFTA Rising Star Award in 2023.
Personal Life
Emma Mackey is a dual French-British citizen and resides in London.
Reception
- The Hindustan Times praised Mackey’s performance as Maeve Wiley in “Sex Education,” comparing it to the work of acclaimed actress Florence Pugh.
- Review site DoItInParis described her role in “Eiffel” as radiating mischief and endearment.
Emma Mackey’s work in “Sex Education” has been particularly lauded, with many considering her portrayal of Maeve Wiley as a standout performance in the series. Her talent and versatility have garnered her nominations and awards, establishing her as a rising star in the world of acting.