‘I’m just a mixed-race kid from flats in Kirkby’

Actor Stephen Graham has described himself as “just a mixed-race kid from Kirkby” as he accepted an Emmy award for his starring role in the acclaimed Netflix series Adolescence.

In his acceptance speech, the 52-year-old, who grew up in the Merseyside town, said: “This kind of thing doesn’t happen to a kid like me.”

Graham played Eddie Miller in the series, which told the story of a teenage boy accused of killing a schoolmate.

The star, who was named outstanding lead actor, also paid tribute to his children and wife Hannah Walters, who he described as his “rock” and “soulmate”.

The series scooped six trophies at the awards, including one for outstanding supporting actor won by Owen Cooper, who at just 15 became the youngest ever male Emmy winner, for his breakout role Adolescence.

In his speech, Graham said: “This kind of thing doesn’t happen to a kid like me. I’m just a mixed race kid from a block of flats in a place called Kirkby.

“So for me, to be here today, in front of my peers and to be acknowledged by you is the utmost humbling thing I could ever imagine in my life, and it shows you that any dream is possible.

“There’s too many people to thank but I am going to thank my friends and family. Without you, none of this is possible.

“Thank you for helping me with something that I can’t do on my own.

“Jack, everyone, Phil, everyone. I want to bring it to my dad for taking me to the video shop when I was a kid and kick-starting my education in film – Quarry Green video shop.

“My kids Grace and Alfie and my adorable wife, who I love with every ounce of my being, you are my rock, you are my world, you are my soulmate and you know and I know, without you, I would be dead.

“So from the bottom of my heart I love you with everything I have. Namaste everyone, thanks very much.”