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Ella Purnell’s portrayal of Lucy MacLean in the Fallout series has been hailed as a “star-making performance,” but for those familiar with her extensive body of work, her talent comes as no surprise. Despite her relatively young age of 27, Purnell has been gracing screens both big and small for over 14 years, showcasing her versatility and range as an actress.
Purnell’s journey in the entertainment industry began as a child actor, but it was her role in the 2010 sci-fi drama “Never Let Me Go” that catapulted her into the spotlight. Starring alongside Andrew Garfield, Carey Mulligan, and Keira Knightley, Purnell portrayed a young version of Knightley’s character, marking the beginning of her successful career.
Throughout her teens, Purnell carved out a niche for herself by portraying adolescent versions of iconic actresses in blockbuster films. Her roles as Young Angelina Jolie in “Maleficent” (2014) and Young Margot Robbie in “The Legend of Tarzan” (2016) showcased her ability to embody the essence of these established stars.
In addition to her film roles, Purnell also made appearances in popular movies such as “Kick-Ass 2” (2013) and Tim Burton’s “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” (2016). However, it was in the 2020s that Purnell transitioned to streaming and television projects, leading to a significant surge in her career.
With notable roles in Zack Snyder’s “Army of the Dead” (2021), the period drama “Belgravia,” and her voice acting performances in “Arcane” and “Star Trek: Prodigy,” Purnell has solidified her presence in the streaming landscape.
However, it was her role as Jackie Taylor in Showtime’s “Yellowjackets” that garnered widespread acclaim. Her portrayal of Jackie in the show’s 1996 timeline, following a group of high schoolers navigating survival after a plane crash, showcased her dramatic depth and earned her well-deserved recognition.
Now, with her standout performance in Fallout, it seems that Purnell’s years as a supporting or ensemble player may be behind her, paving the way for more leading roles and further establishing her as a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.