Philip Shaun McGuinness

Philip Shaun McGuinness works professionally as an actor across stage, television and film.

Philip’s route into acting was not a conventional one. He initially enrolled at Edge Hill to train as a nurse, inspired by more than a decade spent caring for his Nan. However, while performing in a community play at Liverpool’s Everyman Theatre, he was encouraged to explore drama more seriously and made the decision to change course. After transferring to Drama, Philip went on to complete a PCET PGCE and a Masters in Education at Edge Hill, experiences he says strengthened his discipline, focus and work ethic.

Philip said: “I swapped courses to the one I was meant to do and it was the best decision I ever made. Edge Hill gave me a sense of belonging. I genuinely grew into the person I am today there.”

For Philip, Edge Hill stood out immediately: “As soon as I saw Edge Hill it was the only choice for me. The location, the facilities and how close it was to home made it perfect. I’m a homely person and I needed somewhere that gave me a sense of belonging – Edge Hill gave me that.”

That sense of community was central to his student experience. He credits the supportive environment and open-door culture within the Performing Arts Department for allowing him to grow not just as an actor, but as a person.

“I always believed I was caring and compassionate, but Edge Hill really emphasised those qualities. I felt I could always go in for a chat, and I’ve tried to carry that approach through my own life.”

One of the highlights of Philip’s time at university was founding Edge of Your Seat Productions, a theatre company set up alongside fellow students.

“We had the talent and the facilities – just not the extra-curricular opportunities at the time,” he explains. “I realised that if any of us were going to be successful, it would be by doing it together.”

With financial support from the Performing Arts department, the company produced Our Day Out and later toured Alice in Wonderland. The experience taught Philip invaluable lessons in leadership, organisation and teamwork.

“Starting the theatre company was an absolute high point. I’m not sure I could have done that anywhere else.”

Philip also benefited from work opportunities facilitated by Edge Hill staff. Acting tutor Lisa Adams invited him back as a graduate to perform in They Shoot Dogs with her theatre company.

“It was a brilliant opportunity to work with professionals and perform to sold-out audiences. Lisa taught me so much, not just about acting, but about professionalism and how you treat people. That’s always remembered.”

Alongside his studies, Philip worked as a student ambassador, leading campus tours and representing the University at open days – a role he jokes he still feels he is doing today.

The transition from university to professional acting was challenging. Against conventional advice, he chose to work as a supporting artist, an experience he describes as a vital grounding.

Philip said: “I didn’t know where to go or what to do next. Those 5am starts, long days in the cold – that built tenacity and grit. Watching actors like Cillian Murphy prepare on set was an education you couldn’t buy.”

Those early experiences helped him build connections, reputation and resilience – values he traces back to Edge Hill.

“What you put in is what you get out. I carry that mantra into everything.”

Philip is celebrating continued success on screen after starring in the BAFTA-nominated television series <strong>G’wed, a show that has struck a chord with audiences for its authentic portrayal of young people and life in Merseyside.

Philip, born and bred in Kirkby, credits his time at Edge Hill with shaping both his career and his approach to acting. Now working professionally across stage, television and film, he describes G’wed as a particularly meaningful project.

Philip commented: “It’s been a wonderful experience to see people from the region represented so well on TV, seeing young people being represented so positively has been incredibly rewarding.”

The series’ BAFTA nomination marked a significant milestone in Philip’s career, one he describes as a ‘bucket-list moment’, and reflects years of perseverance, preparation and professional growth.

Philip says G’wed has been particularly meaningful, especially for audiences in Merseyside.

“Seeing young people represented so positively on screen has been incredible. Being nominated for a BAFTA was a bucket-list moment.

Philip’s career reached an international audience when he appeared in the acclaimed US television series The Alienist, working alongside actors including Dakota Fanning, Luke Evans, Daniel Brühl and also working with Martin Freeman in The Responder.

“Playing Fat Jack was unforgettable. It was my first major role working away from home and on such a large-scale production,” he said. “The set felt like visiting Universal Studios. Daunting, but absolutely unforgettable.”

He also cites experiences working with actors such as Stephen Graham on Being Keegan as formative moments. Philip said: “Stephen Graham left a lasting impression. He was so gracious with fans and crew alike – a real lesson in humility and remembering where you come from.”

Philip has no shortage of ambition. One role, in particular, continues to inspire him.

“I’ve always believed I could be The Doctor,” he says. “Who knows what’s around the corner?”

He is keen to continue exploring character roles across genres, from horror to comic-book worlds, and dreams of working with directors such as Christopher Nolan.

Reflecting on his journey, Philip’s advice to current and prospective students is simple but powerful.

“Talent gets your first job. Hard work gets you the rest. Be great to work with, be truthful to who you are, and don’t be afraid of rejection – I prefer to call it redirection.”

“Trust the process. Keep working hard – and don’t be so hard on yourself along the way.”

Above all, Philip hopes students will give themselves permission to pursue what truly makes them happy.

“Whatever you want to do with your life, if it makes you happy – commit to it 100%. Be happy.”