If you have been watching major streaming platforms lately, the name Ruby Stokes is quickly becoming one you need to know. The 25-year-old British actress has rapidly built a diverse and impressive résumé, showcasing a rare versatility that allows her to transition smoothly between lavish period dramas, intense supernatural thrillers, and critically acclaimed independent films. From her breakout role in a global phenomenon to her current status as a sought-after leading lady, Stokes is proving to be far more than just another face; she is one of young Hollywood’s most promising talents.
From The BRIT School to Breakthrough Roles
Stokes’ foundation as a performer is rooted in rigorous training that provided her with a unique and well-rounded skill set.
Early Training and Unique Skills
Born in Hackney, East London, Stokes honed her acting skills at the highly regarded BRIT School, the same esteemed performing arts institution that launched the careers of global stars like Adele, Amy Winehouse, and Tom Holland.
Beyond traditional dramatic arts training, she also studied at the Young Actors Theatre Islington and was a member of the London Youth Circus, which is part of the National Centre for Circus Arts. This unusual combination of training gives her a distinct physical presence and confidence, which has been invaluable for her later action-heavy and physically demanding roles. Her professional career began at a young age, with early television appearances in shows such as Just William and Not Going Out, providing crucial on-set experience early on.
The Bridgerton Chapter: Francesca’s Subtle Grace
In 2020, Ruby Stokes gained international attention when she was cast as Francesca Bridgerton in Shondaland’s massive Netflix hit, Bridgerton.
As the sixth child in the influential Bridgerton family, Francesca was initially a quieter, more reserved presence on screen. Stokes brought a subtle grace and understated elegance to the role, capturing the attention of millions of viewers globally during the show’s first two seasons (2020–2022). This role introduced her work to a colossal worldwide audience and established her ability to perform convincingly within a major production alongside experienced co-stars.
Her departure from the series in 2022 was due to scheduling conflicts with a new project, which was a clear indicator of her rising demand in the industry. The character of Francesca was subsequently recast, but Stokes’ exit marked the beginning of her journey into true leading roles.
Leading a Netflix Thriller: Lockwood & Co.
The project that necessitated her departure from Bridgerton became her first major starring role: the supernatural thriller series Lockwood & Co., based on Jonathan Stroud’s popular book series.
Stepping into Lucy Carlyle’s Shoes
In this series, Stokes took on the lead role of Lucy Carlyle, a highly skilled teenage psychic investigator who can hear the voices of ghosts. This role was a significant pivot from the controlled environment of a Regency-era ballroom, requiring her to deliver demanding action sequences, complex dramatic scenes, and extensive work with visual effects.
Stokes’ performance was widely praised for its nuance and authenticity. She brought depth to Lucy’s character, portraying her as tough, fiercely independent, yet vulnerable and haunted by her past. Though Lockwood & Co. was canceled after a single season, her performance solidified her reputation as a capable leading actress who can successfully anchor a major production.
Commitment to Craft: Diverse Film and Stage Work
Demonstrating a clear commitment to diversifying her skills, Ruby Stokes continues to take on challenging and varied roles across multiple mediums.
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Television: In 2023, she starred in the Paramount+ thriller series The Burning Girls, playing Florence “Flo” Brooks alongside the acclaimed actress Samantha Morton. In 2024, she featured in the BBC One mystery drama The Jetty as Hannah Manning.
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Film: Her impressive filmography includes roles in the critically acclaimed 2019 film Rocks, the 2021 horror film A Banquet (where she played a lead role as a teenager with strange behavior), and voicing Kitty in the animated feature Where is Anne Frank.
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Stage: Stokes also made her professional stage debut in 2023 in That Face at the Orange Tree Theatre, working alongside stage veteran Niamh Cusack. This move highlights her dedication to challenging herself as a live performer.
Industry Recognition
Her thoughtful role choices and impressive range earned her a significant industry honor in 2023: she was named one of Screen International’s Stars of Tomorrow. This prestigious recognition has previously highlighted actors who went on to become major stars, signaling industry confidence in her potential for a remarkable career.
Conclusion: An Actress to Watch
At just 25 years old, Ruby Stokes has already established herself as one of Britain’s most talented young actresses. She has masterfully navigated the transition from recurring roles in large-scale dramas to taking the lead in major streaming thrillers. With a strong foundation in her craft, a growing list of acclaimed performances, and multiple future projects already in development—including the films Sunny Dancer and Madfabulous—her career trajectory is exceptionally bright. Audiences worldwide are keenly anticipating the next chapter for this highly versatile and dedicated performer.
FAQs
Why did Ruby Stokes leave the Netflix series Bridgerton?
Ruby Stokes left Bridgerton after Season 2 due to scheduling conflicts. She was cast in the lead role of Lucy Carlyle in another major Netflix series, the supernatural thriller Lockwood & Co., and was unable to commit to both projects.
What is Ruby Stokes’ current main project?
Ruby Stokes continues to work across various platforms. Recently, she starred in the BBC One mystery drama The Jetty (2024) and the Paramount+ series The Burning Girls (2023). She also has upcoming film projects like Sunny Dancer and Madfabulous.
Where did Ruby Stokes train as an actress?
She received training at the prestigious BRIT School in London, known for producing global stars. Additionally, she took classes at the Young Actors Theatre Islington and was a member of the London Youth Circus, giving her a unique blend of dramatic and physical training.
Which is considered her major breakthrough role?
While her role as Francesca Bridgerton brought her international recognition, her first true leading role was as the psychic investigator Lucy Carlyle in the 2023 Netflix series Lockwood & Co., which truly showcased her ability to carry a series.
Has Ruby Stokes received any major industry awards or recognition?
Yes, in 2023, Ruby Stokes was honored as one of Screen International’s Stars of Tomorrow. This is a highly respected industry title that recognizes up-and-coming actors with exceptional potential.