James McAvoy speaks out on film industry bias against Scottish actors

EntertainmentOpinion
31 Mar 2026 • 10:39 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • James McAvoy has spoken out about the "bias" faced by Scottish actors within the wider film industry.
  • He stated that his accent has often led to him being "reduced" and pigeonholed as "that Scottish person" by potential collaborators.
  • McAvoy acknowledged his own success and that others suffer worse bias, but noted he has played very few Scottish characters in his 30-year career.
  • He criticised the industry for pigeonholing Scottish films into narratives focused on social issues such as unemployment and abuse.
  • McAvoy also highlighted the scarcity of Scottish actors, particularly young ones and women, who possess enough influence to get projects greenlit.

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