Ncuti Gatwa, known for his role as Eric Effiong in the hit Netflix series “Sex Education,” recently shared the profound impact the show had on his life. In a candid interview, Gatwa opened up about how portraying Eric helped him overcome internalized prejudices and racism, offering a glimpse into his personal growth and the significance of representation in media.
Gatwa’s portrayal of Eric Effiong, a gay, Black character, has been hailed for its authenticity and nuance. He explained how playing Eric allowed him to confront and dispel the internalized hate he had carried with him for years. Despite facing racism throughout his life, Gatwa had always believed in himself, but the show’s transformative effect was in helping him shed the misconception that everyone held the same ignorant opinions as racists. He realized that he could find his tribe, his people who would accept and support him.
READ MORE: Josh O’Connor’s Struggle with The Crown Fame: A Candid Reflection
“Sex Education” has garnered acclaim not only for its bold exploration of sensitive topics but also for its diverse and inclusive representation. Gatwa praised the show’s creator, Laurie Nunn, for creating a character like Eric, who is unapologetically fierce and unashamed of his identity. For Gatwa, the role was not just a career milestone but also a healing experience, allowing him to embrace his true self and inspire others to do the same.
The popular British teen sex comedy series, also featuring Asa Butterfield, Emma Mackey, Gillian Anderson, Connor Swindells, Kedar Williams-Stirling, Aimee Lou Wood, and more, is concluding with its fourth season on Netflix, set to premiere on September 21st. Gatwa’s portrayal of Eric has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the show’s fans, resonating with many who saw themselves represented in the character.
In addition to his role in “Sex Education,” Gatwa recently joined the star-studded cast of Greta Gerwig‘s “Barbie,” a vibrant comedy featuring Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera, Issa Rae, Simu Liu, and Gatwa’s “Sex Education” co-stars Emma Mackey and Connor Swindells.
Gatwa also shared a lighthearted anecdote from the set of “Barbie,” where he admitted feeling nervous initially and even had an amusing encounter with Ryan Gosling. He recounted a moment when he was chatting with director Greta Gerwig, only to turn around and find himself captivated by Gosling’s striking blue eyes, jokingly saying he “drowned” in them.
As Ncuti Gatwa’s career continues to flourish, his journey with “Sex Education” serves as a testament to the power of representation and the transformative impact of storytelling in the world of entertainment.