Sex Education star Asa Butterfield is set to make his first-ever stage appearance in Second Best, a one-man play inspired by Harry Potter. The production tells the story of Martin Hill, a fictional character who narrowly missed out on playing Harry Potter in the film series, exploring how this near-miss shaped his life.
Butterfield, known for his roles in The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas and X+Y, described the play as “equal parts hilarious and heart-breaking” and is eager to bring it to life on stage. Second Best delves into themes of missed opportunities, identity, and the emotional toll of being close to fame without achieving it.
The play will run at Riverside Studios in Hammersmith from January 24, 2025. Written by Barney Norris and directed by Michael Longhurst, it is based on David Foenkinos’ best-selling novel of the same name. While the story draws on the cultural legacy of Harry Potter, it is not officially connected to the series or endorsed by J.K. Rowling.
Butterfield’s role in the play marks a significant transition from his successful screen career, which recently included his portrayal of Otis Milburn in Sex Education.
