Young Actors Make Their TV Debut
Two young boys from Lewisham are set to make their television debut on Thursday night.
Dasharn Anderson, 13, and Kiano Samuels, 10, will appear in the BBC drama Truckers as brothers Thomas and Matthew, taking on the roles of the on-screen sons of Top Boy star Ashley Walters.
The boys auditioned for the show in May, competing with a large number of applicants from London and nearby areas.
Kiano shared his experience, saying, “I haven’t been acting for very long; this is my second acting job. I only had an evening and the morning of the audition to learn my lines. My granddad helped me get to central London for the casting, and I was quite nervous about remembering my lines.”
Dasharn revealed that the audition process was extensive. “For the second interview, I had to travel all the way to Nottingham, which was a three-hour train ride. Waiting in the waiting room was nerve-wracking, but once I got into it, I began to feel more relaxed!”
Working with Industry Stars
The young actors had the chance to perform alongside several notable stars, including Ashley Walters, known for his roles in Inside Men and Top Boy.
Kiano expressed his enthusiasm about meeting Walter, stating, “When I first saw Ashley, I asked for his autograph. We hit it off right away. He’s a cool and funny guy.” He further added, “Working with Ashley was great because he looked out for me, acting as a role model who gave advice and helped me practice my lines.”
Dasharn noted, “Ashley is quite a jokester, always making us laugh. He’s a genuine person, and I felt comfortable around him.”
Support from Family and Friends
Both boys’ families have shown immense pride and support for their achievements. Kiano mentioned, “Some of my friends keep asking for my autograph.”
They both aspire to continue acting if more opportunities arise, although Dasharn admitted, “Right now, I wouldn’t consider myself an actor—not just yet.”
About the Show
Truckers centers around a group of truck drivers working at a haulage yard in Nottingham, depicting the stories of everyday individuals pushed to their limits.
Dasharn and Kiano are represented by JDF Management. Be sure to watch them in Truckers on BBC One, Thursday, October 24, at 9 PM.
