Behind the Role: Hannah Griffiths on Acting, Directing, and the Emotional Pulse of Storytelling

"Behind the Role Series" will offer an in-depth exploration into the transformative journey of actors and directors: how they approach a character, how they evolve with each role, and the challenges and nuances of creating something meaningful on-screen. This series will dive beyond surface-level discussion, showcasing the intimate process of character development, the thought process behind acting choices, and the unique experiences that shape their careers. It's a way of making the audience feel like they’re getting a peek behind the curtain.

Photo by April Ironside

In this edition of Behind the Role, we step into the thoughtful, grounded world of actress and now director, Hannah Griffiths. From her early days in Windermere to the surreal sets of Black Mirror, Griffiths opens up about the journey behind the characters, the people who shaped her craft, and the very real impact of stories told well.

Origins: "Hannah, growing up in Windermere, how did your environment and upbringing influence your decision to pursue acting?"​

Hannah-  “Growing up in Windermere, there simply wasn’t the industry network you find in bigger cities, so branching into acting felt quite challenging. Manchester became my gateway. I knew early on that I wanted to act, and my parents encouraged me to head there, enroll in classes, and start building connections. Being in Manchester opened my eyes to just how vast the film and theatre world really is, especially coming from a place where few people pursued it seriously. That experience gave me the confidence and perspective I needed, and from there, I eventually made the move to London to continue growing my career.”

Initial Breakthrough: “Your role in the BBC Three series Red Rose in 2022 marked a significant point in your career. How did that experience shape your approach to acting?”

Hannah- “Landing my first professional screen role on Red Rose was surreal—it was the moment I finally got to “do the job” I’d been training for. Stepping onto a real set and watching every department in action taught me more in a few weeks than years of classes. Despite the nerves, it felt surprisingly calm because I was doing exactly what I love.

Working alongside actors who’d been in the industry longer than I was invaluable. I soaked up their habits: how they prepare, how they stay present between takes, and how they support each other on set. That collaborative spirit reinforced for me that acting is as much about listening and reacting as it is about delivering your own performance.

Interestingly, I hadn’t been to drama school, I’d applied but found the process overwhelming, and ultimately realized there are many routes into acting. When Red Rose came through, it taught me that perseverance and flexibility can open doors just as effectively as formal training. Above all, that experience grounded my approach: stay curious, keep learning from those around you, and trust that each opportunity shapes you as both an actor and a storyteller.”

Hannah Griffiths as Brooke in The Deal

Recognition: "Winning Best Actress at the British Urban Film Festival for The Deal is a remarkable achievement. How do you feel this recognition has impacted your career trajectory?"​

Hannah-  “Winning Best Actress at BUFF was incredibly affirming. I only found out I’d been nominated at the last minute, so hearing my name called was a real surprise. I’d landed the role of The Deal through an open casting call from Ed, after sending in my self‑tape, we rehearsed for half a day and shot the entire film the next. Watching it go on to festivals and then receiving that nomination, and ultimately the award, made me pause and reflect on how far I’d come.

That recognition boosted my confidence, helped raise my profile in the industry, and showed me that tangible accolades can open doors. It’s sparked conversations with new collaborators and reminded me that perseverance and taking creative risks can pay off. Above all, it reaffirmed my commitment to pursuing diverse projects and trusting my instincts as both an actor and storyteller.”

Hannah Griffiths as Luisa in Black Mirror

1. Embarking on a Major Production

"Joining a globally acclaimed series like Black Mirror can be a significant milestone. How did you approach this opportunity, and what were your initial thoughts upon being cast as Luisa in 'Bête Noire'?

Hannah- “From the moment I finished my audition, I was already buzzing, because I’ve been a massive fan of the show and Charlie Brooker’s writing, I was genuinely excited that a new season was coming. If I landed the part, it would be incredible; if not, I was still thrilled to see how the story unfolded.

When I got the call, I read through the scenes and immediately saw how Luisa was written not as part of the darker twists but as a sort of “light touch” within the tension. That balance of levity against the episode’s more intense moments appealed to me, and I felt an instant connection to her.

Stepping onto the set felt surreal. To collaborate with a team whose work I’ve admired for years, and to contribute even in a small way to such an iconic series, made me feel incredibly fortunate and more motivated than ever to bring Luisa fully to life.”

Luisa serves as a pivotal character in 'Bête Noire,' interacting closely with Maria. How did you interpret Luisa's role within the narrative, and what nuances did you aim to bring to her character?

Hannah-  “I saw Luisa as the audience’s “anchor” in an otherwise unsettling world. She’s almost entirely unaware of the darker undercurrents swirling around Maria, so my goal was to make her genuinely present and grounded, like the new intern who hasn’t yet learned to question what’s happening.

By leaning into her slight naiveté and lighthearted manner, I wanted Luisa to feel like a natural foil to Maria’s growing paranoia. In scenes such as the almond‑milk mix‑up, Luisa’s genuine confusion and misplaced confidence only heighten the tension. That innocent distraction pulls viewers in, making Maria’s isolation and distress even more impactful.

On a subtle level, I focused on small, everyday gestures—how Luisa greets someone, the way she holds her cup, her off‑hand smiles, to underscore that she’s simply living her day, unaware she’s part of a much darker story. In doing so, I hoped to bring authenticity and warmth to a character whose lightness becomes the perfect contrast to the episode’s psychological twists.”

In 'Bête Noire,' the narrative delves into complex themes such as gaslighting and the manipulation of reality. As Luisa, you portrayed a colleague whose interactions added to the unfolding tension. How did you approach embodying a character who, while not central to the main conflict, contributes to the episode's atmosphere of uncertainty and mistrust?

Hannah- “Luisa feels like she operates on a slightly different wavelength from the central storyline, almost like comic relief or a buffer, but that’s very intentional. I saw her as this well-meaning but naïve new intern who walks into a situation she doesn’t fully understand. She’s fresh, doesn’t quite know what she can or can’t say yet, and is just trying to find her footing. That uncertainty in her character kind of mirrors the wider uncertainty in the episode.

Her moment with the almond milk might seem small, but it plays a big role. It adds to the atmosphere of confusion and subtly undermines Maria’s experience. Everyone around Maria is oblivious to what she’s going through, and Luisa, without realizing it, becomes part of that—another person who unknowingly contributes to the gaslighting. It’s like she becomes this crafted distraction, helping the audience lean into that tension between what’s real and what’s being denied.

Working with Siena and Rosie was incredible. I had a similar feeling when I first worked on Red Rose. Even in scenes I wasn’t in, I’d hang around on set just to watch them work. I learned so much from observing how they approached their roles and the depth they brought to every scene. They both have such presence, and to be able to share the screen with them was a massive learning experience for me.

One standout moment was our table read. Up until then, we’d only seen our own parts in the script; we didn't know who else was involved or how they would bring their characters to life. Hearing and seeing everyone for the first time at the table read was kind of a “whoa” moment. The cast was so strong, and it hit me then how layered and powerful the episode was going to be.”

Photo by April Ironside

"Working alongside talents like Siena Kelly and Rosy McEwen, how did the collaborative environment on set influence your performance? Were there any particular moments or discussions that stood out during filming that you can share?"

Hannah- “Working with Siena and Rosy was incredible. It reminded me a lot of my experience on Red Rose, where I would often stay on set just to watch other actors work, even when I wasn’t in the scene. Watching Siena and Rosy bring their characters to life was genuinely inspiring—they each have such a strong presence and unique approach. I learned so much from just observing them, especially because they both have a bit more experience, and that was something I valued.

Getting to share the screen with them was a huge learning opportunity. I remember scenes where it was just the two of them, like when Maria enters Variety’s house, and I was just in awe. They were electric. And even at the table read, when we first all met and heard each other’s characters out loud for the first time, there was this “wow” moment. You suddenly realize the level of talent around you. That energy elevated my performance, just being surrounded by such dedication.

I think one of the most powerful takeaways is how deeply the episode explores gaslighting and manipulation, especially in a workplace setting. It pushes the boundaries of how far someone can be manipulated before they start to break. It asks that terrifying question: How far is too far? And it shows how easily reality can be distorted by those around you, sometimes without even realizing it.

It’s especially relevant now, when manipulation, whether emotional, psychological, or social, feels like it’s creeping more and more into daily life. For young people, too, I think the portrayal of bullying and peer dynamics will resonate in an unsettling way. It shows how dangerous these situations can become when people are pushed to the edge.

Then there’s the more tech-driven, almost sci-fi element of the story this idea of quantum spaces and memory manipulation. It adds this eerie, futuristic twist that feels very Black Mirror-esque. It makes you think: What if this became real? It’s scary, but that’s the point. The episode holds up a mirror and says, This could happen. And that’s what makes it so powerful.”

"Given the episode's exploration of psychological manipulation and altered realities, what do you hope viewers take away from 'Bête Noire'? 

Hannah- “I think Bête Noire highlights how gaslighting and manipulation can be pushed to such an extreme that it begins to chip away at someone’s sense of reality—and that’s terrifying. Especially in a work environment, where people often feel the need to stay composed or question their instincts, it shows how damaging it can be when those around you subtly undermine your perception of what’s happening.

It’s a reminder of how far manipulation can go when left unchecked, how it can isolate someone and eventually push them to a breaking point. That’s something I think people will take away: that these behaviours aren’t always loud or obvious, but they’re deeply harmful.

The episode also touches on bullying in a way that I think will resonate, especially with younger audiences. It shows how these dynamics can escalate and how important it is to be aware of the signs.

Then there’s this added layer of tech and futurism, the whole quantum space element, which just makes it even more unsettling. It hints at how technology could amplify these experiences in ways we might not even fully understand yet. Like with all Black Mirror episodes, it leaves you thinking, What if this happened? And that question alone is powerful.”

Inspiration Behind the Film: "Your upcoming short film I Won’t Forget delves into themes of grief and toxic family dynamics. What inspired you to write and direct this story?"​

Hannah- “”I Won’t Forget”” is about a girl who, a year on, is still dealing with the loss of her sister. At its core, it’s a story about grief, but it’s also set within the context of a broken, toxic family dynamic, specifically divorced parents who aren’t coping either. That’s actually where the idea came from: I grew up with divorced parents, and I wanted to explore what that looks like when you layer on something as heavy as loss.

It was important to me to show how grief affects everyone differently, especially when you’re already navigating a strained family environment. So, while the story is dramatized, a lot of it stems from my own experiences, just explored through a different lens and elevated through the weight of that grief.”

Transition to Directing: "How did your experience as an actor influence your approach to directing this film?"​

Hannah- “I think being an actor helped me when stepping into the role of a director. You spend so much time working with directors—watching how they communicate, how they guide performances so when it came to directing my film, I felt like I already had a strong foundation.

I naturally fell into that “actor’s director” role. I knew how I wanted things to feel, how I wanted scenes to look and flow, and I found it quite easy to communicate that with my cast. It felt intuitive, and I enjoyed it way more than I expected.

It’s something I want to keep doing. I’ve already set my sights on directing a feature film one day, when the timing’s right in my career.

And yeah, I’m excited to share this short, it’s about 14 minutes and 20 seconds long, and we’re screening it in London at the beginning of June. So, that’s going to be a special moment.”

Collaborative Process: "Could you share insights into your collaboration with the cast and crew, including Lizzie Lomas, Aimee Curtin, and Paul Linden Lamb?"​

Hannah-  “I feel really lucky because I already had a great connection with everyone involved. Lizzie and I are close friends; we’ve worked together before as actors, so there was already that trust and understanding between us, which made the whole process a lot easier.

When I was just starting, I did a course in film production alongside acting and was always creating short films. That’s how I met Aime. We collaborated on a few student projects, and I knew straight away that I wanted to work with her again on this.

As for Paul, I was introduced to him through acting classes. He came highly recommended, and honestly, working with him couldn’t have been more seamless.

All three, Lizzie, Aimee, and Paul, are just amazing. They’re incredibly talented and such exciting emerging voices. Collaborating with them made the entire experience of directing feel inspiring and fun. Honestly, it felt like I had a dream team for my first film.”

Character Development: As both a writer and an actor, your understanding of character creation is multifaceted. When you approach a new role, how does your experience in writing inform your interpretation and portrayal of the character? Could you walk us through your process of developing a character from both the writer's and actor's perspectives?

Hannah- “Absolutely. From a writer’s perspective, when I’m developing a character, I always pull from real-life traits, quirks, and personalities from people I know or have encountered, whether that’s family, friends, or even brief interactions with strangers. I think when you’re writing, especially something grounded or naturalistic, you want your characters to feel authentic and relatable, and drawing from real experiences helps with that.

It’s a very similar process when I’m approaching a role as an actor. I always start by asking myself how I relate to the character, what parts of them feel familiar, and what I can draw from my own life to bring truth to the performance. And if there are elements that feel different to me, maybe their background or the experiences they’ve had, I’ll reflect on whether I know someone like that or do a bit of research to get into their mindset.

I’ve had roles before where the character’s journey was so far removed from anything I’ve personally experienced, and that’s when I know I need to go deeper, whether that’s reading, watching documentaries, or talking to people who’ve gone through similar things. It’s all about doing the work to honour the character and bring them to life with as much integrity as possible.

So in both writing and acting, I guess it all comes down to observation, empathy, and connection, whether it’s with yourself or with others.”

Balancing Roles: "Having experience both in front of and behind the camera, how do you balance acting and directing, and how do these roles inform each other?"​

Hannah-  “Acting has always been my main focus. It’s the thing I’ve wanted to do since the beginning. Writing and directing started as something I explored on the side, just as a creative outlet. But over time, it’s grown into something I want to develop further, especially now that I’ve had the chance to direct my first short film. I can see myself doing more of it in the future.

What’s been special is how much these roles inform each other. As an actor, I’m constantly reading scripts, different styles, genres, and tones. So naturally, that sharpens my understanding of storytelling and helps improve my writing. On the flip side, when I’m writing or directing, I’m always thinking from the actor’s perspective: how a scene might feel to perform, what kind of emotional beats are needed, how to make a character feel real and grounded.

I also think it’s about keeping the creative energy flowing. Acting can be unpredictable, you have periods where you're auditioning and waiting, sometimes hearing a "no" after getting close. In those downtimes, I’ve always wanted to stay creative and productive. That’s when I throw myself into writing or developing my projects. Whether it's working on a short film, starting a new script, or even brainstorming a series, it keeps me inspired while I work toward that next acting job. 

So for me, it's all part of the same creative ecosystem, each role feeds the other. I've got to keep going. “

Hannah’s directorial debut “I Won’t Forget” will be available in theaters in June.