From Stage Beyond to ITV1 for Derry actor

Just 18 months after stepping onto the stage for the first time, Stage Beyond member Kieran Townley has made his television debut in the gripping ITV1 medical thriller 'Malpractice'.

Kieran (32) who is from Derry and had no previous acting experience before joining the Derry-based inclusive theatre company, appeared as an extra in Season 2, Episode 3 of the hit drama, filmed in Belfast last summer.

While his role was brief, it marked a major personal achievement.

“It’s a small step, but a big achievement – especially for someone with autism,” said Kieran.

“I just wanted to get a taste of what it’s like to be on TV," he added.

Kieran’s screen debut was made possible through The Extras Dept (formerly Extras NI), whose background artists have supported major productions such as 'The Fall' and 'Game of Thrones'.

In his scene, Kieran plays a doctor, standing with fellow medics as the lead characters debate a patient’s case.

Kieran's scene in Malpractice can be watched by clicking on: https://bit.ly/40EOUFE

He credits Stage Beyond Theatre Company for giving him the confidence to take this leap.

"It is a safe environment for autism", he said. “Before I joined, I was just sitting at home watching TV. Stage Beyond helped me build my confidence, learn new skills, and connect with others. Now, I’ve discovered a real passion for performing."

Since becoming a member of Stage Beyond in 2023, Kieran has performed in touring productions, including 'The Great Dictator', 'Available Light', and 'Room at the Inn' - the latter directed by BAFTA award-winning writer and director Damian Gorman.

Kieran’s journey into acting followed a difficult period during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Lockdown was really hard. I couldn’t volunteer at my youth club, and I was grieving the loss of my grandfather. Joining Stage Beyond gave me something positive to focus on.”

Watching himself on screen for the first time was an emotional experience. “I cried – but in a good way. It’s surreal to see yourself on TV,” he said, laughing as he recalled his parents’ reaction: “They asked, ‘Is that it?’ and I told them, ‘Of course! I’m an extra!’” They are of course very proud of him.

Kieran Townley (second right) performing in Stage Beyond's production ‘Available Light’ at the Millennium Forum in June 2024.

Kieran hopes his story encourages more inclusion for neurodiverse actors in TV and film. He is inspired by movie icons such as Sir Anthony Hopkins, who revealed his autism diagnosis later in life, and rising star Bella Ramsey, who recently spoke about their own diagnosis while filming HBO’s The Last of Us.

“People don’t realise how many well-known actors and TV personalities are autistic. It shows what’s possible,” said Kieran. “Acting has helped me reduce stress, feel more confident, and just be myself."

A passionate film buff and anime fan, Kieran also admires Oscar winners Cillian Murphy and Sir Michael Caine. He is now eager to continue developing his craft with Stage Beyond.

The multi award-winning local theatre company is supported by National Lottery funding through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and by Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Community Festival Fund.

Follow Stage Beyond on: Facebook: @stagebeyond; Instagram: @stagebeyond2023; and TikTok: @stagebeyondtheatreco.