Determination, dedication and a bold decision to sell his business and enrol in drama school have led to a role in director Guy Ritchie’s latest Netflix series for Ramsgate resident Mason Antonio Fardowe.
The 49-year-old is part of the cast of The Gentlemen after landing the role of Keith – foot soldier to Bobby Glass played by the legendary Ray Winstone – following just 12 weeks at drama school.
Other stars of the crime series include Theo James as Eddie Horniman, a soldier who unexpectedly finds himself saddled with a cannabis empire, Vinnie Jones and Kaya Scodelario.
But there had in fact been 10 years of hard work including a year at Kingdom drama school -co-owned by Ashley Walters of Top Boy-and then movies including The Drugs Game – released in 2021.
Mason said: “For the past 10 years, I’ve immersed myself in the world of acting, initially starting as a hobby while balancing a career in the railways.
“Despite the demanding work schedule, I dedicated my free time to gaining experience by participating in student and indie films, even starting as an extra. It was during this time that I discovered my passion for acting and realized that quality over quantity truly matters in this industry.
“One significant turning point in my career was when I met Clarke Tribe, a dear friend who played a pivotal role in shaping my trajectory. Together, we brought his story to life in the film “The Drugs Game” where I played the second lead role of Barry.
“The positive feedback from this experience encouraged me to further pursue my passion, leading me to sell my business and enrol in drama school.
“With determination and persistence, I sent out emails to professional agents while leveraging my showreel from “The Drugs Game,” eventually landing me a role in Guy Ritchie’s film “The Gentleman” after just 12 weeks of drama school.
“The experience of working on such a significant production was both surreal and rewarding, affirming my belief in the power of perseverance.
“Throughout my journey, I’ve drawn inspiration from British actors like Anthony Hopkins and Ray Winstone, fuelling my dream of collaborating with renowned directors like Guy Ritchie.
“I’ve learned firsthand that success in this industry requires resilience and the ability to embrace rejection, as exemplified by the incredible journey of artists like Olivia Colman.”
Netflix series
The Gentlemen is currently screened on Netflix and tells the story of aristocratic Eddie Horniman (Theo James) who inherits the family estate only to discover it’s home to an enormous weed empire — and its proprietors aren’t going anywhere.
“Susie” Glass (Kaya Scodelario) is the de facto head of Bobby Glass’ (Ray Winstone) criminal syndicate while he is in prison. Keith (Mason Antonio Fardowe) is bodyguard for the Glass’s.
Vinnie Jones plays Geoffrey Seacombe, the long-time groundskeeper of the Halstead Manor and Daniel Ings is Lord “Freddy” Horniman, Eddie’s cocaine-addicted older brother.
‘Belief and perseverance’
Mason, who moved to Ramsgate from London five years ago, is now looking forward to a film deal in Marbella and says those with dreams of getting into the acting industry should have belief and perseverance.
He said: “Looking back, I would tell my younger self to never lose sight of my dreams and to continue believing in myself, no matter the obstacles.
“Today, I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way, including my recent role as a mafia boss for Flow Dan and an upcoming film deal in Marbella.
“I firmly believe that workshops or drama school are invaluable investments for aspiring actors, providing essential skills and knowledge to thrive in this competitive field. It’s not about attending the most expensive program but rather finding one that aligns with your goals and aspirations.
“I hope (this) serves as inspiration for anyone chasing their dreams in the acting industry. Remember, with belief and perseverance, dreams do come true.”
All eight episodes of The Gentlemen, season 1, can be viewed on Netflix here
