Photographer: Alex Boulton
Interview : @ouchmagazineny
The critically-acclaimed ‘Enola Holmes’ franchise has returned, taking Enola far from London, where personal and professional dreams collide on a case more tangled and treacherous than any she has faced before. Directed by Philip Barantini (the Emmy Award-winning director of ‘Adolescence’), the film stars Millie Bobby Brown, Louis Partridge, Henry Cavill, and Helena Bonham Carter. ENOLA HOLMES 3 premieres JULY 1, only on Netflix.
1. When you look back at that journey, what feels like the defining thread connecting all of your work?
I don’t feel like I have a defining thread to be honest. I always try and chameleon my way into my character's to bring out some versatility.
2. You were discovered while performing at drama school—a story that sounds almost cinematic in itself. How did that moment alter your sense of what was possible for your future?
I was actually discovered in an audition for the BBC television film ‘The Whale’. I hadn't graduated yet, but I chose to take the job on 'The Whale' over doing my final year showcase. I was advised against doing that, but I was so eager to get on set that I went for it. And it paid off as I learnt so much. Working with that cast (Jonas Armstrong, David Gyasi, and John Boyega) was a baptism of fire. Not just in terms of acting, but on-set etiquette too. It was an invaluable experience I couldn't have gotten anywhere else.
3. As an actor with both Maltese and British roots, how do those cultural influences shape the stories you're drawn to tell?
I feel like I found a really great balance growing up with both cultural influences. There's something deeply grounding about the lifestyle in Malta. It's a place that encourages you to slow down and appreciate the simple things. Liverpool, on the other hand, was thriving with variety and energy. It exposed me to different perspectives, creativity, and ambition. Those two environments — one for nurturing and centered, the other vibrant and stimulating — shaped how I move through the world. So far, I have embraced the Maltese side of storytelling, having produced 2 of my own independent films.
4. There is often a tension between vulnerability and strength in memorable performances. How do you find that balance when building a character?
Well, it depends on the character. They usually lean towards one side of that scale. It’s rare you get a character that has a perfect balance of both.
5. Your role in The Boat required an extraordinary level of emotional and physical endurance. What did that experience teach you about yourself beyond acting?
The Boat really taught me about pushing yourself through the pain of a scene to achieve the most real performance. There were times where the water was freezing, but I got in any way, so there was no ‘acting’ per se. You are watching the real deal. You discover a lot about yourself when you are put in uncomfortable situations and they better you as a person. I like to stick to the philosophy that aging is the rapid pursuit of comfort. So, the more you push yourself out of your comfort zone, the younger you keep your mind and body.
6. You have worked across stage, television, and film. Which medium feels most like home, and what does each allow you to express differently?
That’s a tough one. I started acting on stage but also grew up on film sets because of my father. They both feel like home to me. Stage being the happy family safe space and set being the chaotic huge family madness. I embrace both as home.
7. Joining a beloved franchise like Enola Holmes 3 comes with its own expectations. What excited you most about stepping into that world?
Well, I do love a Holmes story. I grew up watching different variations of Sherlock’s story and am a big fan of the era. What most excited me about this was the chance to work with Phil Barantini. After watching the Netflix series, 'Adolescence,' I was in awe. The Liverpool connections made us get on like a house on fire.
8. You've portrayed characters from vastly different eras and backgrounds. Is there a role that changed the way you see the world?
No, the way I see the world comes from my own personal experiences in life. I like to bring what I’ve learnt by immersing myself in different cultures into the character I'm playing. So, I would say it’s been vice vera… so far.
9. Many actors speak about transformation. What aspect of yourself do you find you leave behind every time you step onto a set?
It’s got to be my restlessness. I’m a very high energy, fidgety person. On set or on stage is the only time I’m still.
10. Your off-screen life is filled with adventure—from free diving and surfing to hiking. Is there a connection between your love of exploration and your approach to acting?
Absolutely! Building a character is similar to going on an adventure. It’s a lot of exploration and having the bravery to try new things you have never done before. Giving yourself up to the situation and rolling with it.
11. You've shared the screen with remarkable talents throughout your career. What qualities do you most admire in fellow actors?
I find on-set etiquette to be quite important to me. I’m not interested in actors who actively try to make the crew’s life harder. I was a crew member myself for a few years,s so I know what’s it’s like from the other side. I respect that you have your process as an actor, but you have to understand that the crew have their own process that they need to adhere to. It’s about finding a symbiosis of working together rather than just trying to get what you want.
12. Living in Malta while working internationally offers a unique perspective. What does "home" mean to you today?
Home is peace to me. I’m a water baby and being surrounded by the sea will give me a peace of mind that you cannot replicate. Depending on your beliefs, I think we emerged from the sea, so I feel like humans have a natural calling back to it. I find the waves very therapeutic. Rough and stormy seas give me an electric energy sometimes too. I always trust the sea to recalibrate me.
13. As audiences prepare to see you lead Xelter, what drew you to the character of Salvu, and what part of him stayed with you after filming wrapped?
Well, considering I was also a producer on Xelter, I think you can see the real stress I was feeling on my face at the experience of having the son of my character trapped with no way out. The pressure of the situation stayed with me for a while longer. It was the first time I played a father, which brought a whole load of responsibility. It was a funny feeling to be caring for another human being on a level like that. Made me both excited and terrified to become a father myself one day.
14. In an industry often focused on constant momentum, what helps you stay grounded and connected to yourself?
Staying connected to nature is a big one. Exercise and a vibrant social life.
15. When future audiences look back on your body of work, what do you hope they will understand about Joe Azzopardi—not just as an actor, but as a person?
‘You Ain't Never Had A Friend Like Me’ from Aladdin — the best song to explain the type of person I am and the legacy I would like to leave behind.
