IN CONVERSATION WITH SPIKE FEARN

interview by MAREK BARTEK

Actor Spike Fearn can be currently seen in the sci-fi horror ‘Alien: Romulus’. Previously, he was seen in Charlotte Wells' ‘Aftersun’ and starred in Marley Morrison’s beloved film ‘Sweetheart’. He will next star in comedy ‘Ella McCay’, set for release In 2025.

full look EMPORIO ARMANI

Your latest role in ‘ALIEN: ROMULUS’ was highly anticipated. Can you share what it was like working with Fede Alvarez and Ridley Scott on such an iconic franchise?

Being part of the world Ridley Scott created was a dream come true, and working with Fede Alvarez made it even more special. I remember watching ‘Don’t Breathe’ a few years back, and my palms were sweating the whole time. When I heard Fede was directing this film, I was thrilled to collaborate with someone who I knew had a great mind for horror and jump scares, and making movies with that kind of intensity. As a huge ‘Alien’ fan, I couldn’t imagine a better person to bring this story to life.

How was it portraying and working on your character in this film?

It was refreshing to play someone a bit meaner than the characters I’ve portrayed before. Sometimes actors shy away from playing mean roles because they fear it might shape how people perceive them in real life, but I didn’t let that hold me back. I found it exciting and challenging to explore side of myself, that’s far removed from who I am, and it made the experience even more rewarding.

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You've had the opportunity to work with some incredible actors in ‘Ella McCay’. How did it feel to share the screen with industry legends like Jamie Lee Curtis and Woody Harrelson?

Sharing the screen with Jamie Lee Curtis and Woody Harrelson was incredible, but just being around them was just as valuable. ‘Ella McCay’ was a constant learning experience for me. The entire cast was so talented, and I admired everyone I had the chance to work with. The project taught me so much about acting, both on and off the screen—lessons I’ll carry with me throughout my career.

‘Aftersun’ and ‘Sweetheart’ were both critically acclaimed indie films. How do you adjust your approach to a role when you're working on an intimate, character-driven project compared to a large-scale production like ‘ALIEN: ROMULUS’?

Even though my roles in ‘Aftersun’ and ‘Sweetheart’ were smaller, the heart everyone brought to those projects was amazing and I really felt it. When you switch to a large-scale production like ‘Alien', with its elaborate sets and massive scale, it’s that same thrill for me — it’s still really exciting.

You've been recognised as one of Screen Daily's “Stars of Tomorrow.” How has that recognition impacted your career, and what does it mean to you personally?

I’ve been following Screen Daily’s “Stars of Tomorrow” every year since I wanted to be an actor. To be on the list this year was such a cool thing. Seeing past honourees go on to do amazing things makes it even more special. It feels like I’m living the dream I’ve had since I was 16, and being recognised for something I love so much is an absolute honour.

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pants ACNE STUDIOS
glasses JACQUES MARIE MAGE

sweater POLO RALPH LAUREN
denim overall POLO RALPH LAUREN
blazer POLO RALPH LAUREN
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You’ve shown your versatility in television during projects like ‘Tell Me Everything’ and ‘Sneakerhead’. What attracts you to a role, and how do you choose between film and TV projects?

I’m drawn to roles that challenge me and offer a learning experience. I didn’t attend drama school, so I see these years as my learning years. Whether it’s through the role itself or the opportunity to work with a particular director or cast, I’m always looking for growth. My first love will always be cinema. With streaming platforms, TV is becoming more cinematic, but there’s something about movies that continues to captivate me.

Coming from smaller town in Leicestershire, has your background had any influence on your career and your approach to acting?

Growing up in a small town in the UK, where opportunities in the arts were limited, definitely fuelled my drive. When you come from a place like that, you develop a real hunger to succeed because you know it won’t be easy. I carry that drive with me every day. Being from a place filled with interesting characters also turned me into a real people watcher, which has been helpful in my acting career. I do love where I’m from, and I’m proud to be from where I am from.

You've worked with directors like Charlotte Wells and Sam Taylor-Johnson, who each have distinctive styles. What have you learned from working under such diverse directorial visions?

I’ve worked with some great directors already in my career and I’m really happy about that. 

I find it fascinating to watch directors at work. While I’m not sure if I’d ever want to direct myself, I admire how they solve problems and navigate things like only having a certain number of takes before having to move on. Working with directors like Charlotte Wells on ‘Aftersun’ was a privilege. That film was made with so much love, and it shows on screen. Each director I’ve worked with has taught me something unique, and I’m grateful.

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It was recently announced that you are in production for CC: EMILY in Manchester, what can you tell us about the project?

I can’t reveal too much, but it’s a story about a musician chasing love. The biggest challenge for me has been learning to play the guitar and sing, which has been both fun and nerve-wracking. It’s something I never thought I’d do, but I’m really enjoying it. Alissa McDonald and Angourie are wonderful to work with, and it’s been a great experience so far. I’m having a blast.

As someone who’s worked across a range of genres, from drama to comedy, do you have a preference, or is there a genre you’re particularly eager to explore further?

I want to try everything! My next goal is to dive into something really drama-heavy. But honestly, if there’s an interesting character in any genre, with a great filmmaker behind it, I’m all in.

With such a promising career trajectory, what are some of your long-term goals in the industry? Are there any dream roles or directors you’re hoping to work with in the future?

My main goal is to have a long and fulfilling career. I don’t want to go anywhere—this is what I want to do with my life. I have so many dreams within this industry, I don’t want to speak too much though. But I will say if the opportunity comes up to work with Shane Meadows I’ll be happy. 

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TEAM CREDITS

talent SPIKE FEARN
photography SHANE MCCAULEY
styling ORETTA CORBELLI
grooming CANDICE BIRNS AT A-FRAME AGENCY
styling assistant RAIA DOSHI
editor-in-chief TIMI LETONJA
editorial director JANA LETONJA
interview MAREK BARTEK