Young deaf character appears on popular TV show!

This week, a new deaf character crashed into the world of popular Manchester-based TV show, Shameless.

In Tuesday's episode, British Sign Language (BSL) user Danny turned up in the boot of a car when main character Ian returned from Ibiza and, like any Shameless character, began causing chaos on the Chatsworth Estate. Danny, played by young deaf actor Louis Kissaun, will appear in the next five episodes of the long-running Channel 4 series.

NDCS asked 16-year old actor Louis, who still attends Mary Hare School, about his experiences on the show:

How were you picked to appear in Shameless?
My parents are actors and were aware that there was a role in Shameless I could potentially try out for. I went to the audition with a bag of nerves. I managed to get the role. 

What does it feel like to be appearing in a popular TV show?
It feels strange! When I first came across the building, I was petrified of walking past any actors. Being my first job on TV I found it eluding and unbelievable. The best thing was almost everything from the buzz you get from going into the set, to the intense heat of filming. Everyone from the make-up artist to the crew was humorous.

What support has the TV company given you to accommodate your needs?
The crew have given me enormous support with speaking clearly and asking for signs they could use, especially from the Assistant Directors. My character does not wear hearing aids in the storyline, so it is difficult for me to act when there is dialogue, but the make up artist often encourages me to put one of mine on when the camera shots are not facing the aided ear.

Can you describe a typical day of filming?
I cannot think of a typical day in the Shameless world. Plans change all the time, there are long days and there are short days. Often I would come in, have breakfast or lunch, go to rehearsals, getting the make up done while the crew are setting up cameras, lights and props and we would film. The longest day started from 6.30am all the way to nearly 10 in the evening, but many work even longer!

Is it your ambition to become a professional actor?
Being 16 I have no certain idea of what I want to do. I like the ambitious idea of directing films. I have always been inspired to tell stories from films, plays, music and books. Some form of storytelling.

Why do you think it’s important for deaf young actors like you to be on TV?
It’s important to give wider audiences a clearer view on the portrayal of a deaf person. But there’s also the fact deafness shouldn’t be an obstacle for anyone who is deaf and aspires to be an actor.

Growing up as a deaf person, have you faced any challenges along the way?
There have always been difficulties being deaf, being a minority. Sometimes meeting new people and socializing can be difficult in the hearing world as people sometimes can either be put off or dominate their conversation on what’s it like being deaf and anywhere in between isn’t great either!

What three things are most important to you, as a deaf young man?
My family, social life and indulging my self with the qualities of life!

Do you have a message for other young deaf people to encourage them to go for what they want?
Be strong-minded and don’t let this term ‘deafness’ bring you down.

What do you think about NDCS’ Big Plans to support young people directly?
I think it is great! It is nice to have something like this pushing you to achieve whatever your dream is.