Variety

Thomas Doherty on Being Scottish, Shailene Woodley, & Punching Stephen in 'Tell Me Lies'

Variety’s Up Next host Tiana sits down with Scottish actor Thomas Doherty, best known for his role in “Tell Me Lies” and Disney’s “The Lodge,” to discuss his heritage, early career, and recent move into the U.S. market. Doherty recounts growing up in Edinburgh, working paper rounds, car‑washing, call‑center and bar jobs that sharpened his accent versatility. He trained at the NG Academy of Performing Arts, auditioned while commuting to London on night buses, and landed his first major TV gig on Disney UK, which later led to a U.S. Disney Channel series and a surge of social‑media followers. Notable moments include fans repeatedly thanking him for “punching Stephen,” his tattoo reading “Tommy boy,” and a backstage encounter with Seth MacFarlane. He explains why he now favors a neutral American accent over his native Scottish, citing the fluidity of speech and on‑set focus. Doherty’s story underscores the importance of grit, geographic flexibility, and accent adaptability for actors seeking trans‑Atlantic careers. His experience suggests that early, diverse work experience and willingness to relocate can fast‑track exposure in the competitive U.S. entertainment landscape.