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‘I’m proud to know him’: Former teacher to Bridgerton star Tunji Kasim reminisces on his early acting days

Irene Adam has been a loyal supporter of Tunji Kasim, from the very start of his career.

From left: Camera operators Stiubhart Deans and Naomi Ballantyne film actors, Tunji Kasim and Jonathan Tyler Baird at Aberdeen Beach, as part of workshop run by 'That Big Film Project'. Image: Kevin Emslie
From left: Camera operators Stiubhart Deans and Naomi Ballantyne film actors, Tunji Kasim and Jonathan Tyler Baird at Aberdeen Beach, as part of workshop run by 'That Big Film Project'. Image: Kevin Emslie

The former drama teacher of Bridgerton star, Tunji Kasim, has recalled his kind nature and “majestic” performances as part of an Aberdeen theatre group.

The Bridge of Don pupil who stars as Adolphus in Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, credited retired teacher, Irene Adam, for instilling his love of drama.

Tunji was born in Aberdeen before relocating to Nigeria with his family.

They returned to the north-east when he was 12, and settled in Kincorth following a brief stint in Laurenckirk.

It was Tunji’s time spent at Bridge of Don Academy, or rather the encouragement of Irene, which cemented his future.

Speaking to The Press and Journal, he said: “She really put the idea in my head that acting could be a thing, she saw something in me.”

Irene Adam if the former drama teacher of the star. Image: Irene Adam

Tunji went on to work with the Royal Shakespeare Company and starred in BBC drama, Shetland, before landing the role in the prequel to Bridgerton, the series which has been watched by millions of households around the world.

But far from being swayed by his rise to fame, Tunji eagerly awaited the verdict of the teacher who first believed in him.

Believing in next generation

Despite his glowing praise, Irene remains modest as to her leading role in Tunji’s glittering career.

From happy memories to encouraging the next generation, she’s steadfast in her belief that the youngsters of the north-east can thrive in the competitive arts industry.

Bridge Of Don Academy pupils, Sheenagh Murray,16, Tunji Kasim,15 (back) Jordan McCurrach,16, Zara Jaffrey,15 and Jennifer Morrison,13 rehearse a wedding scene in the Studio 22 production of ‘Our Town’.

“I remember when Tunji played Doctor Gibbs in Our Town,” said Irene.

“I can still see him delivering the line ‘Why Julia Hersey- French toast’.

Tunji went on to perform in numerous local shows, including The Talented Mr Ripley &  Biloxi Blues.

(from left) Camera operators Naomi Ballantyne and Stiubhart Deans film actors, Tunji Kasim and Jonathan Tyler Baird at Aberdeen Beach, as part of workshop run by ‘That Big Film Project’ in 2003.

As his career blossomed, Irene could often be spotted in the audience, quietly proud.

“It’s hard to pin down memories from Tunji at school as we have kept in touch, and I have had the privilege of watching him perform many times since,” she said.

” I remember when he performed in a school production of Thornton Wilder’s Our Town at the Lemon Tree in 2002.

“We had such a special group of hard working youngsters who came together as a very strong team for that show – it was a joy to work on.

‘I’m incredibly proud to know him’

“Tunji was one of the younger ones but played the role with such maturity, elegance and understanding.

“It was quite majestic to watch.

“Acorn and Acorn Youth were as a result of that show and the belief that we could go on to do more with a wider group of young people.”

Tunji Kasim stars as Adolphus in Netflix show, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story. Image: Netflix.

The group went on to run for a decade, but fell victim to numerous factors including rising costs.

“The cost of venue, rehearsal space, parking and lack of audience support resulted in the demise of the company,” said Irene.

Although she has since retired from teaching, Irene stays in touch with many of the Acorn alumni.

“Tunji has worked very hard to get where he is now,” she said.

“He is tenacious and meticulous in his approach but also kind, respectful & resilient.

“I’m incredibly proud to know him.

Tunji Kasim arrives at the Los Angeles premiere of Queen Charlotte. Image: Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

“I am not special –  I would wager that every teacher in Scotland invests in the young people in their care and would do all they can to nurture a passion for their future.

“We need to believe in our youth in our City/Shire.

“We have costume designers, set builders, sound engineers,  lighting designers, writers, directors all waiting for someone to say ‘we believe in you and here’s the chance to develop right here in your home town.’

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story is out now on Netflix.

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