Sex Education star cast in Potter-inspired play

Asa Butterfield, best known for his role in Sex Education, is set to make his stage debut in a new one-man play titled Second Best, which draws inspiration from the iconic Harry Potter series. This production marks an exciting transition for Butterfield, who has primarily worked in film, including notable performances in The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas and X+Y.

Second Best tells the poignant story of a young boy named Martin Hill, who narrowly misses out on the opportunity to play the young wizard in the famous film franchise. The narrative delves into the emotional ramifications of this near-miss as Martin grapples with his life choices in adulthood.

Describing the play, Butterfield shared that it is “equal parts hilarious and heart-breaking,” encapsulating a universal theme of “what ifs.” He expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I can’t wait to bring it to life on stage for the very first time.”

The play will be staged at Riverside Studios in Hammersmith for a month, starting January 24, 2025. It follows Martin’s journey from being a hopeful 10-year-old contender for the role to an adult facing the realities of his life choices. Ultimately, Martin is overshadowed by Daniel Radcliffe, who secured the iconic role that would change his life forever.

As the story unfolds, audiences will witness how this pivotal moment shapes Martin’s identity and emotional landscape, particularly as he prepares for fatherhood. The play is a reflection on the impact of missed opportunities and the challenges of reconciling past dreams with present realities. Importantly, Second Best operates independently of the official Harry Potter franchise and is not endorsed by J.K. Rowling.

In a review of the original novel by David Foenkinos, published last year, the Telegraph‘s Catherine Lough remarked on its intricate blend of fiction and reality. She noted that as Martin’s journey unfolds, he blurs the lines between his life and Harry’s, leaving readers questioning what is real and what is imagined. Lough also highlighted the play’s hopeful message about embracing ordinariness as a form of success in a world often focused on high achievement.

The inspiration for Second Best emerged from a real-life anecdote shared by the film’s casting director. The director recounted how Radcliffe’s ability to portray vulnerability helped him stand out among other talented contenders, including the fictional Martin Hill.

Simon Friend, the producer, felt compelled to bring the story to life on stage after reading the novel, calling it a narrative that “immediately cried out to be told.” The stage adaptation has been crafted by playwright Barney Norris, who worked closely with Foenkinos’ original material. Renowned director Michael Longhurst is set to guide the production, ensuring a compelling interpretation of this heartfelt story.

Butterfield expressed his emotional connection to the play, stating, “It really broke my heart, reading this play, and it made me laugh out loud, and I’m excited to bring that to life and make it my own.” This sentiment reflects the depth and complexity of the character he will portray, offering both humor and profound introspection.

At just 27, Butterfield has already made a significant impact on the screen, particularly as Otis Milburn in Sex Education, a series that became one of Netflix’s standout successes. With Second Best, he is poised to explore new artistic avenues, showcasing his talents in a different medium and providing audiences with a unique theatrical experience.

As the opening date approaches, excitement is building around this debut performance, as Butterfield takes on a role that not only challenges him as an actor but also resonates deeply with the themes of aspiration and acceptance in the face of life’s unpredictability.