Dylan Llewellyn: The Heart and Soul of Big Boys' Final Season

Jacket & Jeans - Sandro, T-Shirt - Sunspel, Loafers - Russell & Bromley, Belt - Hugo Boss

Photography Assistance - Sylwia Newman

Location with thanks to Philip Steiner

As Dylan Llewellyn steps into the final season of Big Boys, he carries with him the warmth, humour, and emotional depth that have made the show a standout in British television. Known for his endearing portrayal of Jack in Big Boys and his beloved role as James Maguire in Derry Girls, Llewellyn has built a reputation for bringing authenticity and charm to the screen. Now, as he bids farewell to Jack, The Rakish Gent sits down with him to reflect on the journey, the impact of Big Boys, and his ever-evolving career.

Shirt - Prada, Blazer - AMI, Tie - Favourbrook, Jeans - Sandro, Loafers - Russell & Bromley

The Evolution of Jack: A Character Close to Home

For Llewellyn, portraying Jack has been nothing short of a transformative experience. "I have really enjoyed collaborating and working with (writer) Jack Rooke and his genius brain," he shares, praising the show’s creator for his insightful storytelling. "The way he works and especially his writing have been incredible, and working with director Jim Archer has been equally wonderful."

As Big Boys enters its third and final season, Llewellyn reflects on Jack’s personal growth. "Jack is definitely more comfortable in his own skin now. We saw hints of that in season two, but this season, he really comes into his own," he says. "He tackles some big issues, and these experiences help him grow as a person."

Jacket & Trousers - Canali, Shirt - Prada, Tie - Favourbrook, Knit - Sandro

Saying Goodbye: The End of an Era

With the series coming to a close, Llewellyn admits to a "rollercoaster of emotions." "It’s definitely sad to be saying goodbye to Jack," he confesses. "It has been a beautiful journey, and we are all closer for being on that journey together. I feel like we created something really special."

Despite the bittersweet farewell, the bond between the cast remains strong. "We have a Big Boys WhatsApp group chat, and we’re always filling each other in on what’s going on," he reveals. "We’ll all be seeing each other at the cast and crew premiere, so the connection remains."

A Career of Iconic Roles: From Derry Girls to Beyond Paradise

For many fans, Llewellyn will always be the "wee English fella" James Maguire in Derry Girls, a role that catapulted him to fame. "I loved playing James. He has a really special place in my heart," he says. "That show basically got me back into acting when I was struggling with auditions."

While Derry Girls has left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide, Llewellyn didn’t anticipate its immense success. "I didn’t know it would be as big as it is," he admits. "I thought it would do well because of the amazing cast, crew, and writing, but seeing how audiences reacted was a wonderful surprise."

Beyond comedy, Llewellyn continues to diversify his roles. His return as PC Kelby Hartford in Beyond Paradise allows him to explore a different side of his acting range. "When Big Boys finished shooting, I went straight to Devon and Cornwall to film Beyond Paradise," he explains. "It was a pretty intense time with no real rest, but it was so much fun that I didn’t really feel anything other than the joy of working on something creative with a great team."

T-Shirt - Oliver Spencer, Jeans - Sandro

The Style of Dylan Llewellyn

As The Rakish Gent is as much about style as it is about substance, we couldn’t resist asking Llewellyn about his fashion preferences. "I adore classic menswear looks—fitted suits, Mod style, brands like Fred Perry. That style is very me," he says. "The clothes I’m wearing in this shoot with The Rakish Gent are exactly the kind of pieces I love. I’d love to wear more of that stuff."

His go-to brands? "Oliver Spencer, Hackett, Richard James—wonderful brands like that," he notes. His appreciation for timeless tailoring aligns perfectly with the ethos of The Rakish Gent.

Blazer - Tommy Hilfiger, Shirt & Tie - Polo Ralph Lauren, Trousers - Oliver Spencer, Belt - Hugo Boss, Loafers - Russell & Bromley

What’s Next for Dylan Llewellyn?

With Big Boys wrapping up and Beyond Paradise set to return in March, Llewellyn remains busy. "I have just started on another project, but it hasn’t been announced yet, so watch this space," he teases.

As he continues to navigate the industry, one thing is clear: Dylan Llewellyn’s career is only just beginning. Whether in comedy or exploring new genres like drama and horror—perhaps even as a "baby-faced assassin," as he jokingly suggests—his charm, versatility, and undeniable talent will keep audiences captivated for years to come.

Season 3 of Big Boys airs from 10pm on Sunday 9 February 2025 on Channel 4.

Follow Dylan Llewellyn on Instagram.

Tajinder HayerFebruary 9, 2025spotlight, interview, long reads, actor, editorial, photography, digital cover