Fans of the hit E4 series Skins have just discovered that a major star from the show is featuring in the biggest new horror film of 2025.
British actor Jack O’Connell, who played the charming yet reckless James Cook in Skins, is almost unrecognisable in his latest role as a villainous character in this historical supernatural thriller.
In Skins, which aired from 2007-2013, O’Connell’s character Cook was known for his womanising ways and disdain for authority, often testing his friendship with Freddie McClair (played by Luke Pasqualino) and JJ Jones (Ollie Barbieri).
Both Cook and Freddie were also drawn to the popular yet mysterious Effy Stonem (Kaya Scodelario), the sister of Skins’ first generation lead Tony Stonem (Nicholas Hoult).
Over a decade after his stint on the iconic teen drama ended, O’Connell has now landed a role in Ryan Coogler’s hit horror blockbuster Sinners, reports the Express.
In this terrifying film, he plays the evil character Remmick, who haunts the opening of a new juke joint in 1930s Mississippi run by twin brothers Smoke and Stack (Michael B Jordan).
Following the film’s release last Friday (18th April), fans have taken to social media after realising one of Skins’ biggest breakout stars played a key role.
Fans of the hit movie are flocking to X (formerly Twitter) to confess their admiration for the cast of Sinners, particularly O’Connell. One latecomer gushed: “I haven’t seen Sinners yet but omg no one told me Jack O’Connell aka Cook from Skins UK was in it.”
Praise for O’Connell wasn’t in short supply, with a fan proclaiming: “From #Skins to f***ing #Sinners I’m proud of the actor Jack O’Connell. That man should be classed as a National Treasure of my generation idc.”
Another expressed joy at the actor’s success: “It makes me so happy to see Jack O’Connell get the recognition he deserves for Sinners. He was my absolute favorite actor and character in Skins.”
Further tweets showed support: “Jack O’Connell in @SinnersMovie adds to my case!
“Whoever the casting agent was for skins deserves some form of lifetime achievement award for their service. The most incredible actors and actresses!”
A viewer reminisced and praised his latest gig, saying: “Loved Jack O’Connell from Skins so him in Sinners was differenttt.”
There was also a heartfelt comment by an admiring fan: “Real Skins fans know that Jack O’Connell has always been one of the ones to watch. Nice to see him get his flowers in Sinners.”
With greats like Dev Patel, Daniel Kaluuya and Joe Dempsie among its alumni, Skins is hailed for generating top-notch British talent over the past ten years.
Whispers are even circulating about O’Connell potentially snagging an Oscar nod for his performance in Sinners.
Anticipation is high that we’ll be seeing much more of this Skins alum following his captivating turn in what’s being dubbed one of the standout movies of the year.
Sinners is in cinemas now. Skins is available to stream on Channel 4.
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