Words by Tanya Karda
On-screen representation matters – and with his work as Eric Effiong, Ncuti Gatwa is setting the right example.
Ncuti Gatwa’s fast becoming a household name. And for all the right reasons, too. The 29-year-old can do no wrong, with his latest showing in season three of Sex Education illustrating his special talent for getting it right. Acting’s a hard job – but with a talent for delivering convincing stories, Gatwa makes it all look easy.
So what’s this Sex Education show, you ask? In short, it’s Netflix’s idea of how sex should be taught in school, with a hint of teen drama, unrealistic scenarios and good ol’ fashioned entertainment. Set in Britain, it follows the lives of students, staff and parents at Moordale Secondary, the fictitious school riddled with every sex scandal imaginable. It’s also genuinely educational – especially for younger audiences (those of the right age to watch, obviously). It takes on serious topics, tackles key concerns – and more importantly – dispels misinformation about pregnancy, sexuality and STIs. All of that makes for a hit show, a genuinely refreshing entertaining and educational watch.
The effort to include a diverse range of stories is obvious, making it not only fun to watch – but relatable. Of the young stars that make the show what is, Gatwa’s character, Eric Effiong, is one of the best. Tall, slim, with a round and welcoming face, Eric’s every bit the funny diva. He’s gay, Nigeria and from a heavily religious home. He likes to dress up, adores cheeky gossip, and is incredibly loyal. His best mate’s Otis, an equally loyal (bar one incident), sharp and funny guy. Unlike Eric, he’s white, has a mum who does nothing else but talks about sex (meaning he’s free of judgement) – and he’s straight. Consequently, the storyline is sharp, with honest, educative and funny interactions in abundance.
The rest of the cast (as brilliant as they are) aside, Ncuti Gatwa’s character does wonders for on-screen representation. Eric tackles situations that are all too familiar to many LGBTQ+ young people. It also shows the good side, the importance of being one’s self. In an interview with Attitude Magazine, the 29-year-old actor said: “We talk about the silliness and the fun of the show… [but] then you get a message from somebody in Saudi Arabia or Nigeria, somewhere where being gay is illegal or there is a death penalty or it’s very homophobic, and you think, f***ing hell, this show is important because it really is educational.”
And being reached out to seems a regular fixture of Ncuti’s newfound fame. And like all role models, he enjoys it, taking it as a sign his work is making an impact in the right way. On-screen, the character is genuinely hilarious. From demonstrating his skills to classmates to celebrating every kiss with a crush, nothing seems too big or too little to shout about. His Nigerian identity adds to the character’s appeal, playing a key role in Eric’s self-exploration and identity. For some viewers, that dynamic will be all too familiar, making Eric’s character both realistic and entertaining.
And considering being gay is illegal or taboo in some countries, Gatwa’s ability to portray an honest experience –whilst educating and entertaining audiences – is even more impressive. It’s not cringy or stereotypical, cliche or overdone. As good as the script may be, much of that is down to the actors – and in this case, Gatwa. Fans frequently cite Ncuti Gatwa as a reason they watch Sex Education. Lover of everything bright and colourful, Eric’s become an undisputed star of the show.
And if you thought the new heights of fame would change him, think again. The 29-year-old is a man in love with where he’s from. Home, as they say, is where the heart is.
“I try not to leave Tottenham – it’s my happy place.”
The dream wasn’t always to become an actor, either. He figured he didn’t enjoy maths or English much. Instead, it was drama Ncuti Gatwa liked most. Thankfully, his teachers knew best, encouraging him to apply for the prestigious Conservatoire of Scotland. Since then, he’s starred in a few shows for the BBC, including a documentary about being Black and Scottish.
It’s not just acting he’s got covered – but style, too. Becoming a star is hard work you see, especially when matters of style and fashion are concerned. Younger stars don’t struggle much, though. Take the ever-dapper Damson Idris for example or the consistently cool Daniel Kaluuya. Like them, Gatwa’s learned the importance of off-screen style. Might be the most important thing to you – but to us, it makes all the difference.
With season 4 in the not too distant future, we’ll be eager to see where Gatwa takes Eric’s character. For now, though, you should continue to follow Gatwa’s journey as he sets the right example.
Speaking of young actors setting the right example, here’s why Zendaya is ready for global stardom.