Hannah Waddingham’s rise to fame has been anything but conventional. Known for her role as Rebecca Welton in the hit Apple TV+ series “Ted Lasso,” Waddingham’s journey to stardom didn’t begin until she was well into her 40s. Now, at 49, she reflects on the years of struggle and rejection that have ultimately shaped her into the unstoppable force she is today.

The Path to Stardom

Hannah Waddingham’s career in entertainment began in theatre at the age of 24, with a role in the West End musical “Saucy Jack and the Space Vixens” in 2006. Despite her early start, it wasn’t until much later that she found significant success on screen. Her television work included appearances in the BBC sitcom “Not Going Out” in 2011 and later in Netflix’s “Sex Education.” However, it was her role as Septa Unella in “Game of Thrones” that first brought her widespread recognition.

Despite these roles, Waddingham faced numerous setbacks and rejections. Her height (she stands at 5ft 11in) often worked against her in auditions, with casting decisions frequently favoring shorter actors. Yet, she persisted, driven by a deep passion for her craft and an unwavering belief in her abilities.

Finding Fame in “Ted Lasso”

Hannah’s big break came when Jason Sudeikis, co-creator and star of “Ted Lasso,” took a chance on her. At 45, she began filming the series, a decision she feels was perfectly timed. “It really does feel more special,” she says. “I’m glad that it didn’t happen when I was 20, 25, 30, because I know who I am. I don’t apologize for who I am.”

In “Ted Lasso,” Hannah portrays Rebecca Welton, the owner of a struggling Premier League football team. Her performance has been widely acclaimed, earning her several awards, including an Emmy. The role has not only elevated her career but also allowed her to showcase her full range of talents, from comedy to drama.

Personal Life and Motherhood

While her professional life has flourished, Hannah’s personal life has seen its share of challenges. She is a single mother to her eight-year-old daughter, Kitty, whom she shares with her ex-partner, Italian hotelier Gianluca Cugnetto. The couple split in 2022 after a decade together.

Balancing her demanding career with motherhood has not been easy, and Hannah often grapples with “mum guilt.” She recalls a touching moment with Kitty, who once told her, “Mummy, you’ve got to go away and do all the things so we can do all our things.” Despite the guilt, Hannah is deeply committed to providing for her daughter and ensuring she understands the value of hard work and perseverance.

Challenges in Love and Relationships

Hannah’s confidence in her professional life hasn’t entirely translated to her romantic relationships. As her career has soared, her tolerance for negative influences has diminished. She admits to being “picky” and has little patience for men who bring her down. “At a whiff of somebody bringing me down, I think, ‘Next! Goodbye. What’s your name again?'” she says.

Since her split from Kitty’s father, Hannah has been linked to opera singer Alfie Boe. However, she remains single and unapologetically selective about who she allows into her life. She values positivity and charisma over stereotypical attractiveness, seeking someone who can match her energy and support her unconditionally.

Embracing Late Success

For Hannah, finding fame later in life has been a blessing. It has given her a profound sense of self-awareness and confidence. “I feel like we are finally, as women, you know, we’ve got this and then some,” she says. Her success has also enabled her to provide more for her daughter, allowing them to travel and experience the world together.

Despite the challenges, Hannah is incredibly proud of her achievements. She continues to break barriers and inspire women worldwide with her story of resilience and determination. As she prepares for new roles, including a part in the upcoming “Mission: Impossible” movie alongside Tom Cruise, Hannah Waddingham remains a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief.

Conclusion

Hannah Waddingham’s journey to fame is a powerful reminder that success doesn’t always come early or easily. Her story is one of resilience, hard work, and an unshakeable belief in oneself. As she continues to thrive in her career and navigate the complexities of motherhood and personal relationships, Hannah’s journey inspires countless others to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Hannah Waddingham married?

No, Hannah Waddingham is not currently married. She was in a long-term relationship with Italian hotelier Gianluca Cugnetto, with whom she shares a daughter, Kitty. The couple split in 2022, and Hannah has referred to herself as a single mother since then.

2. What is Hannah Waddingham best known for?

Hannah Waddingham is best known for her role as Rebecca Welton in the Apple TV+ series “Ted Lasso.” Her performance in the show has earned her critical acclaim and several awards, including an Emmy.

3. How did Hannah Waddingham start her career?

Hannah Waddingham began her career in theatre, with a role in the West End musical “Saucy Jack and the Space Vixens” in 2006. She later appeared in television shows such as “Not Going Out” and “Sex Education” before gaining widespread recognition for her role in “Game of Thrones.”

4. How does Hannah Waddingham balance her career and motherhood?

Balancing her career and motherhood is a challenge for Hannah Waddingham. She often experiences “mum guilt” due to her long hours away from home while filming. However, she makes it a point to call her daughter every morning and night and ensures that her daughter understands the value of her hard work.

5. What qualities does Hannah Waddingham look for in a partner?

Hannah Waddingham values positivity, charisma, and supportiveness in a partner. She is not overly concerned with stereotypical attractiveness and prefers someone who can match her energy and support her unconditionally.