David Jonsson: BAFTA Winner Takes Centre Stage in Gritty Prison Drama Wasteman
London, 18 February 2026 – British actor David Jonsson is currently dominating the cinematic landscape following the UK release of his latest feature, Wasteman. The East London-born star, who recently secured a BAFTA award following his breakout performance in Alien: Romulus, is receiving critical acclaim for his portrayal of Taylor, a drug-addicted prisoner facing the complexities of the British penal system. The film’s launch coincides with a significant week for Jonsson, as he remains a frontrunner for further accolades at the upcoming BAFTA Film Awards.
Critical Acclaim for Wasteman
Directed by Cal McMau, Wasteman has been described by critics as an “energetic, urgent, and damning” look at incarceration in the United Kingdom. Jonsson stars as Taylor, a long-term prisoner and cook whose hopes for parole are jeopardised by the arrival of a volatile new cellmate, Dee, played by Tom Blyth. Filmed on location at the decommissioned HM Prison Shepton Mallet, the production has been praised for its raw authenticity and claustrophobic atmosphere.
In a recent interview, Jonsson emphasised his commitment to authentic representation, stating, “Every role I do, I’m going to be a Black man first.” This philosophy has guided his transition from television success in Industry to becoming one of Hollywood’s most sought-after leading men.
Key Facts: David Jonsson
The following table outlines the career milestones and personal details of the London-based actor and filmmaker.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David Jonsson |
| Date of Birth | 4 September 1993 |
| Place of Birth | London, England |
| Notable Television | Industry, Deep State, Murder Is Easy, Endeavour |
| Notable Film | Rye Lane, Alien: Romulus, Wasteman, The Long Walk |
| Recent Awards | BAFTA Award Winner (2025/26 cycle), BIFA Winner |
| Upcoming Projects | The Road Trip (Netflix), Untitled Frank Ocean Project |
Future Projects and Hollywood Ascent
Beyond the success of Wasteman, Jonsson is set to appear in the highly anticipated adaptation of Stephen King’s The Long Walk, starring alongside Cooper Hoffman. Footage recently released shows Jonsson in the role of Pete, a character providing the emotional anchor in the brutal survival thriller. Additionally, Jonsson is expanding his portfolio into streaming with the Netflix series Too Much and an untitled project involving Frank Ocean.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is David Jonsson’s latest movie?
His latest film is the British prison drama Wasteman, which was released in UK cinemas in February 2026. He also recently starred in the sci-fi blockbuster Alien: Romulus and the Stephen King adaptation The Long Walk.
Has David Jonsson won any major awards?
Yes, David Jonsson is a BAFTA award winner and has also received a British Independent Film Award (BIFA) for his recent work. He was previously named a Screen International Star of Tomorrow in 2023.
Where did David Jonsson start his career?
Jonsson began his professional acting career on the West End in London before making his television debut in the ITV drama Endeavour. He gained international recognition for his role as Gus Sackey in the BBC/HBO series Industry.