Welsh singer and presenter Aled Jones has firmly stated that he played no part in his daughter Emilia's rise to Hollywood stardom. The 54-year-old star, famous for his 1985 rendition of 'Walking In The Air', revealed that the 23-year-old actress, who shone in the Oscar-winning film CODA, still lives at the family home and has received no career assistance from him.
Pride and Independence in the Spotlight
Speaking candidly to The Times, Aled expressed immense pride in his daughter's achievements, which she secured through sheer hard work. Emilia dedicated nine months to studying sign language for her role in CODA, a 2021 film that went on to win three Academy Awards. "I could burst with pride at her achievements," he said.
He highlighted the significant leap in her career, noting, "She was in Shrek The Musical in the West End when she was nine, but to go from that to an Oscar-winning film was quite something." Crucially, Aled pointed out that many in the industry are unaware of their familial connection. "Lots of people still don't realise she's my daughter, which means no accusations of nepotism," he explained, adding wryly, "I've had nothing to do with her success — hosting Songs Of Praise doesn't get you much sway in Hollywood!"
From 'Walking In The Air' to 'The Running Man'
Reflecting on his own early fame, Aled recalled the advice he received from broadcasting legend Sir Terry Wogan after the success of 'Walking In The Air'. He was told to "spread myself as thinly as possible" to make it harder for people to "get rid of you".
Meanwhile, Emilia's career continues to accelerate. Her most recent project is the action thriller The Running Man, where she stars opposite Hollywood A-lister Glen Powell. The film, based on a novel by Stephen King (written under the pseudonym Richard Bachman), premiered last month. It is set in a dystopian future centred on a deadly television game show. The adaptation has so far grossed $68.4 million at the global box office.
What's Next for the Rising Star?
Emilia Jones is already lined up for her next significant role. She will appear in the upcoming biopic Tony, about the late celebrity chef and author Anthony Bourdain, portraying his first wife, Nancy Putkoski. This follows the cult status achieved by the original 1987 The Running Man film, which starred Arnold Schwarzenegger.
The journey from a West End stage as a child to the heart of Hollywood appears to be one Emilia has navigated on her own merit, a fact her father is both keen to emphasise and incredibly proud of.
