DANIEL MAYS: I’ve Worked with Hollywood’s Biggest Stars But I Still Sometimes Feel Like an Imposter

2026-06-02

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Daniel Mays has been in our living rooms for decades. From EastEnders and Line of Duty to Mrs Biggs and Thursday Murder Club, he’s become one of the most familiar and loved faces in British TV and film. But long before he shared the screen with the likes of Michael Douglas and Stephen Graham, Daniel was the middle child in a working-class Essex family, desperate to be seen and heard. He found his voice through performing and never looked back.In this conversation, Danny shares: Growing up in Essex with dreams of becoming an actor

But long before he shared the screen with the likes of Michael Douglas and Stephen Graham, Daniel was the middle child in a working-class Essex family, desperate to be seen and heard. He found his voice through performing and never looked back.

In this conversation, Danny shares:

Growing up in Essex with dreams of becoming an actor
Why he nearly didn't go to stage school
The unforgettable advice Michael Douglas gave him
Taking on the role of the 'Black Cab R*pist' John Worboys and how it affected him
What it was like performing in front of Daniel Day Lewis

Daniel was a joy to talk to and he’s a reminder of what's possible when you back yourself and never let go of the dream.

Daniel Mays is Great Company.

Watch ‘Believe Me’ on ITV HERE

Check out Daniel’s new podcast ‘Gangster Presents: The Story of Ronnie Biggs’ HERE

If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us:

Instagram- @greatcompanypodcast

TikTok - @greatcompanypodcast

Jamie - @jamielaing

And if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk

THE CREDITS

Producer: Helen Burke

Assistant Producer: Issy Weeks-Hankins