Before the bright lights of Los Angeles and the glamour of Hollywood became a part of Florence Pugh’s life, she was just another pupil at a school in Oxfordshire. But what made her stand out even then was her innate talent for the stage and her unbridled confidence.
The Early Years: A Teacher’s Insights
As Florence Pugh’s former teacher, Claire Hooper, recalls, the young Pugh had a “star quality” that couldn’t be denied. Hooper taught Pugh at Cokethorpe School in Witney for around two or three years in the early 2000s.
- Hooper remembers Pugh’s first public performance being as Mary in the school nativity play, where she completely embodied the character and impressed everyone with her talent.
- Pugh’s impressive performance wasn’t limited to the nativity play. She would often take on different roles and characters in school, showcasing her versatility and creativity.
- Hooper praises Pugh’s natural ability to take on a character and let herself go, saying “She just had an amazing ability at a young age to completely embody a character and sort of let herself go.”
A Young Star Emerges
Pugh’s natural talent and confidence eventually caught the attention of her peers and teachers alike. As she transitioned to secondary school, she began to make a name for herself in the school drama clubs.
- Pugh was cast as Mary in the school nativity play and impressed everyone with her talent.
- She went on to star in the school nativity play, showcasing her ability to take on a character and let herself go.
- Pugh’s hard work and dedication eventually led to her being noticed by casting directors, marking the beginning of her journey to stardom.
A Family of Stars
Florence Pugh comes from a family of creatives. Her father, Clinton Pugh, runs restaurants in Oxford, while her siblings are talented in various fields.
- Family
- talented, gorgeous humans
Her siblings, including Toby Sebastian, who starred in Game of Thrones, have also made a name for themselves in the entertainment industry.
From Oxford to Hollywood
Pugh began her acting career in Oxford, landing her first major role in Carol Morley’s 2014 film The Falling.

