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Welsh actress Leisa Gwenllian named in prestigious Stars of Tomorrow line-up
Overview
Welsh actress Leisa Gwenllian has been selected for Screen International's annual Stars of Tomorrow showcase for 2026, joining a prestigious list of alumni that includes Benedict Cumberbatch and Florence Pugh. Gwenllian starred as Effi in the Welsh-language film Effi o Blaenau, an adaptation of Gary Owen's play Iphigenia in Splott directed by Marc Evans. She expressed pride in the recognition, viewing it as a major boost for Welsh-language cinema and proof of a growing appetite for films in the Welsh language.
Key points
- Welsh actress Leisa Gwenllian has been named in Screen International's 2026 Stars of Tomorrow showcase.
- She starred as Effi in the Welsh-language film Effi o Blaenau, adapted from Gary Owen's play Iphigenia in Splott.
- The annual showcase highlights rising British and Irish talent and has previously featured stars like Benedict Cumberbatch, Florence Pugh, Jodie Comer, and Paul Mescal.
- Gwenllian stated that the recognition is a significant boost for Welsh-language cinema, proving there is an appetite for Welsh-language films with subtitles.
- Screen International's Charles Gant praised Gwenllian as a phenomenal talent who carries the entire film with warmth and charisma.