Tom Blyth Stuns in Gritty British Prison Thriller ‘Wasteman’
London, 18 February 2026 – English actor Tom Blyth is currently receiving critical acclaim for his transformative performance in the new British prison drama Wasteman, which arrived in UK cinemas this week. Following his breakout success in the 2023 Hunger Games prequel, Blyth has solidified his status as one of the UK’s most versatile young talents, moving from the romantic leads of 2025 into a “brutal” and “urgent” portrayal of an incarcerated contraband king.
Critical Success with ‘Wasteman’
In Wasteman, directed by Cal McMau, Blyth stars as Dee, an impulsive and physically imposing cellmate to David Jonsson’s character, Taylor. Critics have praised the chemistry between the two leads, with reviews highlighting Blyth’s “obnoxious confidence” and “muscly physique” as a stark departure from his previous roles. The film, which has already secured a British Independent Film Award (BIFA) win, is currently a frontrunner for the upcoming BAFTA awards.
The role marks a significant shift for Blyth, who spent much of 2025 in the public eye for his work in the Emily Henry adaptation People We Meet on Vacation and the thriller Plainclothes, where he portrayed officer Lucas Brennan. His latest turn in Wasteman is being described by industry outlets as his most raw and realistic performance to date.
Key Facts: Tom Blyth
The following table outlines the career milestones and personal details of the Nottingham-born actor as of February 2026.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tom Keir Blyth |
| Date of Birth | 2 February 1995 |
| Place of Birth | Birmingham, England (Raised in Woodthorpe, Nottingham) |
| Education | Central Junior Television Workshop; Juilliard School |
| Breakout Role | Coriolanus Snow in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023) |
| Recent Release | Wasteman (February 2026) |
| Upcoming Projects | Discussion Materials (Comedy) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tom Blyth’s latest movie?
As of February 2026, Tom Blyth’s latest film is the British prison thriller Wasteman, in which he stars alongside David Jonsson. The film was released in UK cinemas during the second week of February 2026.
Who does Tom Blyth play in ‘Wasteman’?
Blyth plays the character Dee, a volatile and influential prisoner who becomes the cellmate of the protagonist, Taylor. The role required a significant physical transformation compared to his earlier work.
Is Tom Blyth in ‘People We Meet on Vacation’?
Yes, Blyth stars as Alex Nilsen in the film adaptation of Emily Henry’s bestselling novel People We Meet on Vacation, which was a major romantic comedy release in 2025.
Where is Tom Blyth from?
Blyth was born in Birmingham but grew up in Woodthorpe, Nottingham. He is the son of the late television producer Gavin Blyth.