Hannah Waddingham is widely known for her hit performances, notably as a central figure in the Apple TV+ series Ted Lasso and as a memorable guest star in the long-running British comedy Benidorm. In 2013 she joined the sixth season of Benidorm, a show filmed in Benidorm, a popular tourist hub on the Costa Blanca. This stint marked a significant shift in her television trajectory and showcased her versatility to a broad audience.
Her portrayal of Tonya Dyke in Benidorm brought her a surge in recognition, yet it also offered a mixed experience. In a candid interview with The Mirror in January 2014, Waddingham described being in the midst of a challenging filming environment, noting that the attention she received could be uncomfortable at times. She recalled moments of overt stares from audiences and the need to navigate changes in her appearances while maintaining the role during a demanding shoot.
While on location, Waddingham found herself walking through the hotel sets in character, sometimes under pressure to perform despite uncomfortable attention. She explained that the situation required balance, professionalism, and the ability to focus on the work at hand while dealing with intrusive behavior from some members of the public. Security on set played a supportive role in ensuring her comfort and safety during travel to and from work.
A playful anecdote from the production year is captured in behind-the-scenes captions and promotional material, illustrating the blend of humor and tension that characterized the Benidorm experience. Waddingham later reflected on the period as a challenging but valuable part of her career, acknowledging the complexity of fame and media scrutiny even in a comedy series.
In look and mood, the Benidorm era highlighted the cast’s chemistry and the show’s distinctive tone. It also provided opportunities to explore personal boundaries and the evolving relationship between performers and audiences during a time when the television industry was transitioning toward more open conversations about on-set safety and professional respect.
Waddingham has spoken about the learnings from that period, acknowledging the good parts of the experience, including professional growth and a supportive circle of colleagues who helped navigate the ups and downs of a busy shooting schedule. The Benidorm chapter contributed to her understanding of how a role can influence public perception while shaping an actor’s future choices.
Hannah Waddingham, the boss of Ted Lasso, presents Eurovision 2023
The public profile of Waddingham expanded further as she embraced a leadership role on the beloved Ted Lasso series, where her portrayal of Rebecca Welton earned critical acclaim and audience affection. Her presence in Eurovision 2023 added another layer, highlighting her ability to connect with audiences across different formats and cultures. This transition underlined her status as a versatile performer capable of crossing genres with ease.
Her journey through Benidorm and beyond
Beyond Benidorm, Waddingham built a personal and professional life that included meaningful relationships and creative collaborations. Her experiences on set helped shape her approach to balancing public life with family and creative projects. She has described early stages of her career as a blend of intense training, stage work, and initial television roles that laid the groundwork for broader opportunities later on.
Born in 1974 in Wandsworth, London, Waddingham pursued acting at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, propelled by a family background that valued the performing arts. Her mother was an opera singer, and her father held a local policing role, with a brother who followed a similar path. The young performer also explored modeling during her teenage years before taking a significant step into West End theatre in 1997.
Her early theatre work established a strong stage presence and vocal ability, leading to notable roles on screen. Among her credits are a theatrical adaptation of The Wizard of Oz where she portrayed the Wicked Witch of the West and a turn in Monty Python projects that contributed to her growing reputation. The transition from stage to screen showcased her range and commitment to craft.
There is something contagious about Benidorm
The Benidorm experience left a lasting impression on Waddingham, one shaped by the mix of weather challenges during filming and the dynamic energy of a bustling resort town. She recalled moments of adapting to a sun-soaked climate while maintaining performance standards, highlighting the improvisational skills that such shoots often demand. The series offered a platform where a bold, energetic character could flourish within a comedic framework.
The role of Tonya gave her a chance to portray a character with a confident, playful persona, and the process of preparing for and sustaining the look and feel of such a figure underscored the dedication required in television production. Waddingham’s ability to convey humor, charm, and resilience contributed to the show’s unique appeal and helped propel her toward broader acclaim in subsequent years.
From screen to stardom
Television audiences soon recognized Waddingham’s talents beyond Benidorm, notably with the emergence of the character Septa Unella in Game of Thrones. Though a stern, demanding figure, her performance connected with viewers and showcased a talent that could define a scene with gravity and intensity. This role opened doors to more high-profile projects, culminating in a celebrated turn as Rebecca Welton in Ted Lasso, a part that earned an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2021.
Her work extends to music as well, contributing to the Ted Lasso soundtrack with a moving rendition of You Make Me Feel So Young. This musical contribution reflects her broader artistic range and willingness to explore new creative avenues within her established television persona.
Today, Waddingham remains a dynamic presence in television, celebrated for spontaneity, warmth, and authenticity. Her journey through Benidorm and beyond continues to inspire fans who value both strong character work and the ability to connect with audiences through humor and heart.