Irish actress Jessie Buckley was the toast of Hollywood on Sunday night, securing the coveted Golden Globe for Best Actress for her performance in the critically acclaimed film Hamnet. The 36-year-old star's big win was celebrated with both her rarely-seen husband, Freddie Sorensen, and her on-screen partner and close friend, Paul Mescal, whose film also took home the award for Best Film.
A Private Partner in the Spotlight
While Jessie Buckley stood centre stage accepting her award, her husband of one year, Freddie Sorensen, was quietly supporting her from the sidelines. Buckley has consistently kept her partner out of the public eye, citing the sensitive nature of his work in mental health. She recently stated he would "never walk the red carpet" with her professionally, but made an exception for the Globes ceremony.
During her humorous acceptance speech, the actress did give her husband a nod, joking that he had been "enjoying the free canapés and cocktails." The couple, who tied the knot in 2023 at their Norfolk home after five years together, welcomed their first child, a daughter, just four months ago.
From TV Producer to Mental Health Advocate
Freddie Sorensen's career path is notably varied. Before retraining and moving into mental health work, he had a successful behind-the-scenes career in television. His CV includes working alongside Simon Cowell on The X Factor, helping to produce ITV's Game of Talents UK with Vernon Kay, and contributing to the 2022 reboot of the BBC's Gladiators.
He also co-founded the immersive party brand Rebel Bingo, which evolved into themed events like The End of the World. His shift in focus led him to launch the podcast Depression For Beginners, created to help others based on his own experiences. Despite his low profile, Sorensen has accompanied Buckley to major events before, including the Oscars in 2022.
Celebrating with Co-Star and 'Essential' Friend Paul Mescal
The night wasn't just a celebration with her husband. Jessie Buckley shared the joy of Hamnet's Best Film win with her co-star and now firm friend, Paul Mescal. The pair were pictured in high spirits after the announcement, with Mescal, 29, playfully biting the winner's announcement card as Buckley leaned in to join him.
Their close bond was further highlighted from Buckley's recent speech at the Critics Choice Awards, where she told Mescal, "I bl**dy love you, man" and called him "a giant of the heart." She later clarified her now-viral comment about being able to "drink Paul like water," explaining it referred to the essential, human connection he brings to their acting work.
Mescal returned the heartfelt praise, stating that Buckley's performance in Hamnet was one for the history books. "They're gonna be studying what she did in Hamnet in drama school," he said. "It's one of the greatest performances we're going to be seeing for years."
Paying Tribute to Heroes and Crew
In her Golden Globes acceptance speech, Buckley was gracious in victory. She paid a heartfelt tribute to the fellow nominees in her category, including Hollywood legend Julia Roberts, whom she called a "hero to us all." She also thanked Jennifer Lawrence, Renate Reinsve, Tessa Thompson, and Eva Victor.
In a charming and personal anecdote, she specifically thanked a Polish grip named Tomak from the film's crew, who would secretly prepare a giant pot of homemade soup for everyone on set. "Thanks Tomak for bringing your pot to set," she said, highlighting the familial atmosphere during filming.
Reflecting on her rapid rise since being a runner-up on Andrew Lloyd Webber's 2008 BBC talent show I'd Do Anything, Buckley described the experience as "brutalising," criticising the sexist and appearance-focused comments from judges. Her journey from reality TV contestant to Golden Globe winner and Oscar tip for Hamnet marks a significant and hard-earned evolution in her celebrated career.
