Stephen Graham slams Hollywood actors for unprofessional on-set behavior, calling tardiness "disgusting" and disrespectful to crews.
- March 18, 2026
AceShowbiz - Stephen Graham, known for his roles in Gangs of New York and The Irishman, has openly criticised certain Hollywood actors for their unprofessional behaviour on set. Speaking at a SAG-AFTRA Foundation Panel in Los Angeles, the 52-year-old star expressed frustration over actors who arrive late to filming, describing it as “exceptionally disrespectful.”
Stephen Graham emphasised the impact this has on the crew, highlighting how they often arrive early and stay late, only to be kept waiting by tardy stars. He called the behaviour “disgusting” and suggested it reflects an arrogant attitude among some co-workers in the industry.
This candid criticism comes as Stephen Graham recently confirmed plans for a second season of the acclaimed Netflix drama Adolescence, in which he plays a leading role. The series has received critical acclaim, with Graham winning the Golden Globe for Best Male Actor in a Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television for his performance.
In an interview with Deadline following his Golden Globe win, Stephen Graham hinted at future developments for Adolescence, stating that while he cannot answer definitively about a second season, the idea remains alive in the minds of himself and co-creator Jack Thorne. He advised fans to “stay tuned” for updates in the coming years.
Alongside Graham’s win, his co-stars Owen CooperOwen Cooper and Erin DohertyErin Doherty also earned accolades for their supporting roles, winning Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress respectively. The show itself took home the award for Best Limited or Anthology Series, cementing its status as a standout production.
Earlier, Stephen Graham shared with Variety that if a second season of Adolescence happens, it likely would not continue focusing on the Miller family, but could instead evolve into an anthology series with a completely different story. He explained that the first season was crafted as a “little British story” made with “truth, integrity, respect and a lot of love,” which contributed to its unexpected success and resonance with viewers.
In the series, Graham’s character faces the harrowing consequences of his teenage son’s arrest for the murder of a female classmate, a storyline that has drawn praise for its emotional depth and realism.
During his Golden Globe acceptance speech at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, Stephen Graham paid heartfelt tribute to his wife, producer Hannah Walters. He credited her with having turned his life around since their marriage 18 years ago, calling her “one of the best producers ever” and expressing deep gratitude and love.
"You saved my life," Graham said, dedicating his award to his wife, his two children Grace and Alfie, as well as his parents and close friends. He described his father as his hero and acknowledged the essential support network behind his success.
Notably, 16-year-old Owen Cooper won the Supporting Actor award while in the midst of studying for his GCSE exams, making him the second-youngest male Golden Globe winner in history after Ricky Schroder, who won at age nine in 1980.
Stephen Graham’s remarks about Hollywood’s tardiness highlight ongoing frustrations within the industry about professionalism and respect for the entire production team. His comments have sparked conversations about the need for greater accountability and consideration among actors on set.
As fans await news of the next chapter for Adolescence, Graham remains committed to authentic storytelling and maintaining the integrity that has defined his recent work. His outspoken stance on set etiquette adds another layer to his image as a grounded and principled actor in a sometimes chaotic industry.