Poppy Gilbert, a Swedish-born British actress, has rapidly gained attention for her dynamic performances and versatile roles in both television and film. Born on September 14, 1998, in Stockholm, Sweden, Poppy grew up in a family with strong ties to the world of media and entertainment. Her parents, Nigel and Camilla, worked in advertising and television, giving her a unique and culturally diverse upbringing. As a child, Poppy lived in various locations, including London, Hong Kong, and Singapore, which helped her develop a deep understanding of different cultures and perspectives.
Early Life and Education
Poppy attended the Lady Eleanor Holles School in Hampton, London, from 2008 to 2015. It was during this time that her love for acting flourished, as she actively participated in school plays and drama productions. Recognizing her passion, she joined the National Youth Theatre at the age of 17, a move that allowed her to further develop her acting skills. Poppy’s professional journey took a more serious turn when she enrolled at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama in 2016. After completing a Bachelor of Arts in Acting in 2019, Poppy began to pursue a career in acting full-time. During her time at Guildhall, she participated in various productions, including Orestes, Detroit, Measure for Measure, and Oklahoma!, all of which showcased her range and versatility as an actress.
Breakthrough Roles in Television
Poppy’s first on-screen appearance came in 2020 when she was cast in a guest role as Lesley Pike in Call the Midwife, a popular British medical drama. This role marked the beginning of her career in the television industry, and it quickly led to other significant opportunities.
Later in 2020, Poppy was cast as Thomasina Tuckerton in the BBC One miniseries The Pale Horse, which was based on Agatha Christie’s novel of the same name. Her portrayal of the rebellious Thomasina earned her recognition and solidified her reputation as a promising actress. The series, which also starred Rufus Sewell and Kaya Scodelario, was a critical success and helped Poppy gain a larger following.
In 2021, Poppy starred as Barbie in Stay Close, a Netflix mystery thriller based on Harlan Coben’s bestselling novel. Her character, Barbie, is glamorous but holds many secrets, adding depth and intrigue to the series’ already complex plot. Poppy’s performance was praised for its emotional range, with critics highlighting her ability to portray a character caught between personal turmoil and a facade of perfection.
The following year, Poppy appeared in Chloe, a BBC One psychological thriller in which she portrayed the titular character, Chloe Fairbourne. In the series, Chloe’s obsession with a woman she believes is living a perfect life leads her down a dark and twisted path. Poppy’s performance was praised for capturing the complexities of a character driven by envy, insecurity, and obsession.
In 2023, Poppy starred as Abbie Collier in The Catch, a Channel 5 drama about a young woman entangled in a web of deceit and betrayal. Poppy’s portrayal of Abbie was lauded for its emotional depth and maturity, as she brought authenticity to a character caught between her love for a man and the discovery of his dark secrets.
Film Appearances
While Poppy is primarily known for her television roles, she has also made waves in the film industry. In 2025, she starred in the Netflix film My Oxford Year, where she portrayed Cecelia Knowles, a close friend of the protagonist Jamie Davenport, played by Rose Williams. Set against the backdrop of Oxford University, the romantic drama explores themes of love, friendship, and ambition. Poppy’s portrayal of Cecelia was praised for its sensitivity and depth, adding layers to the film’s emotional narrative.
Poppy’s upcoming projects include her role in The Other Bennet Sister, an adaptation of the novel inspired by Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. The series, which will air on BBC One, focuses on the life of Mary Bennet, the least known of the Bennet sisters. Poppy’s involvement in the project has generated significant anticipation, as fans of Austen’s work eagerly await her portrayal of the character.
Personal Life and Online Presence
Poppy stands at 5’9″ and possesses striking red hair and blue eyes, which have contributed to her unique on-screen presence. Outside of her acting career, Poppy maintains an active presence on social media platforms like Instagram, where she shares glimpses of her professional life and personal experiences. Her Instagram handle, @poppy_gilbert, has gained a large following, giving fans a chance to connect with her on a more personal level.
Filmography Highlights
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Call the Midwife (2020) – Lesley Pike
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The Pale Horse (2020) – Thomasina Tuckerton
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Stay Close (2021) – Barbie
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Chloe (2022) – Chloe Fairbourne
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The Catch (2023) – Abbie Collier
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My Oxford Year (2025) – Cecelia Knowles
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The Other Bennet Sister (TBA) – Mary Bennet
Future Projects and Career
Poppy Gilbert’s rise in the entertainment industry has been nothing short of impressive. With each new role, she continues to demonstrate her versatility and range as an actress. Her ability to embody complex characters with depth and nuance has earned her a dedicated fanbase, and her future in film and television looks exceptionally bright. As she takes on more diverse roles and collaborates with top industry professionals, Poppy’s career trajectory will likely continue to soar, solidifying her status as one of the most promising young actresses of her generation.
Conclusion
Poppy Gilbert’s journey from a young aspiring actress to a rising star in British television and film serves as an inspiration to many. With a growing body of work and a range of exciting projects on the horizon, Poppy’s career is one to watch closely. As she continues to take on new and challenging roles, her talent, dedication, and unique presence will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.