14 top talents to watch out for in 2017 – as chosen by current TV stars

First job

A vampire movie — it was the first audition I ever went to, and two weeks later I was in Romania.

You might recognise me from

The Collection, which was on Amazon last year. I think it said in the audition email that it shoots in Paris and the UK, and I was like, “Amazing!” because I lived in France until I was nine. Then it changed to Swansea…

Currently in

Harlots, on ITV Encore.

Role model

Kristin Scott Thomas. I love how she has worked in the UK, America and France. The world is bigger than just this country and there are a lot of projects that interest me in Europe.

Actor Sarah Parish says

“It is rare in this day and age to clap eyes on a real (almost old fashioned) star to be. I remember vividly clocking Poppy Corby-Tuech at the read through for The Collection and was mesmerised by her beauty and her talent. She was already a star, though she had no idea that she was.

“She held herself with such grace and confidence. A look that took me back to Audrey Hepburn or Grace Kelly. What made her even more attractive was her wonderful energy on set. She was disciplined, focused and truly professional. Traits that many young actors lack. No ego, just talent and a beauty that takes your breath away.”

11. Roman Kemp

24, TV and radio presenter

Early days

I went to school in Hertfordshire but left at 16 — my parents [Martin Kemp and Shirlie Holliman] were always up on me working and making my own way.

First job

When I left school I was signed to Universal Music on a development contract, working with incredible artists like Placebo. WORST JOB I modelled for a couple of years but just being a coat hanger wasn’t that fun, so I quit and took a job in a gym cleaning the equipment… I wanted a total change.

You might recognise me from

I was on The Xtra Factor, present 2Awesome on ITV2 and Nick Kicks on Nickelodeon. I also host Capital Radio’s evening show. I’ve worked hard, and hate the phrase “it’s the people you know” — you have to be able to do the gig!

Dream job

Hosting the Brit Awards would be epic. But right now the breakfast show on Capital has opened up — to get that would be a big thing.

Dermot O’leary says

“Roman is doing a great job of forging his career and doing it with enthusiasm, humility and curiosity. And he’s a good guy!”

12. Bill Milner

22, Actor

First job

Acting! I’ve never had a proper job. My first film was Son of Rambow when I was 11. I didn’t realise that the film would have a big cinema release, I honestly thought it was just a fun way to spend my summer holiday.

You might recognise me from

I was in X-Men: First Class when I was 16, Anthropoid last year, and iBoy on Netflix this year.

Coming up in…

I’ve just finished a film called The Lodgers and I’m about to start filming a new project.

Role models

Cillian Murphy [Milner’s Anthropoid and Broken co-star] and Andy Serkis, because I’ve seen them at work.

The future

I’ve done primary school, secondary, college, first love… so whatever comes after that!

Cillian murphy says

“I worked with Bill twice, recently on Anthropoid and on Broken when he was still a teenager. Even then it was clear to see he was a special talent. A brilliant improviser, whip-smart sense of humour and a very intuitive actor. I’m looking forward to seeing his career take-off.”