Emma Mackey: The BAFTA Star Breaking Out Beyond Sex Education

In a world filled with rising stars, few have captured the spotlight as quickly and captivatingly as Emma Mackey. With her breakout role in Netflix's Sex Education and growing film credits, Emma has become a name to watch in both television and cinema. In this article, we’ll dive deep into Emma Mackey’s movies and TV shows, her uncanny resemblance to Margot Robbie, and what sets her apart in today’s entertainment landscape.

Who Is Emma Mackey?

Born January 4, 1994, in Le Mans, France, Emma Mackey is a French-British actress who rose to fame through her role as Maeve Wiley in the Netflix series Sex Education. She moved to the UK for higher education and studied English Language and Literature at the University of Leeds before stepping into the world of acting.

Despite being relatively new to the scene, her strong performances and screen presence have earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. She effortlessly balances intelligence, vulnerability, and strength in her roles, making her one of the most promising talents of her generation.

Emma Mackey’s Breakout Role in Sex Education

Emma Mackey became a household name with her role as Maeve Wiley in Netflix’s hit series Sex Education. Playing a fiercely intelligent, independent, and emotionally complex teenager, Mackey received praise for portraying a character that resonated with young audiences around the world.

Sex Education not only showcased her acting range but also launched her into international stardom. The show tackled taboo topics like sexuality, consent, and identity, and Emma’s role was central to its success. Her chemistry with co-star Asa Butterfield was also a fan favorite.

Emma Mackey Movies and TV Shows

Beyond her breakout TV role, Emma Mackey’s movies and TV shows have continued to diversify and impress. She has been deliberate in choosing roles that challenge her as an actress and highlight her versatility.

Key Projects:

  • Sex Education (2019–2023) – Netflix series that made her famous.

  • Death on the Nile (2022) – She played Jacqueline de Bellefort in Kenneth Branagh’s star-studded Agatha Christie adaptation.

  • Emily (2022) – A biographical drama where Emma starred as author Emily Brontë, showcasing her dramatic chops.

  • Eiffel (2021) – A French romantic drama where she played Adrienne Bourgès opposite Romain Duris.

  • Barbie (2023) – Though not in a leading role, Emma appeared in the highly anticipated Barbie film alongside Margot Robbie.

Emma’s career trajectory shows a balance of commercial appeal and artistic integrity, something that has drawn comparisons to seasoned actors far beyond her years.

Emma Mackey and Margot Robbie: Celebrity Doppelgängers

One of the most buzzed-about topics surrounding Emma Mackey is her striking resemblance to Margot Robbie. Fans and media alike have often mistaken one for the other due to their similar facial features, including piercing eyes, strong jawlines, and elegant smiles.

Shared Screen Time

Interestingly, Emma Mackey and Margot Robbie shared the screen in the 2023 Barbie movie, further fueling the discussion. Their appearance together was a clever nod to the ongoing fan chatter about their lookalike status.

In interviews, both actresses have addressed the comparisons. Emma, in particular, has expressed that while it's flattering to be compared to someone as talented as Margot Robbie, she’s also focused on carving out her own identity in the film industry.

Emma Mackey’s Awards and Recognition

Emma’s performances have not gone unnoticed by critics. She won the BAFTA Rising Star Award in 2023, a prestigious honor that highlights her potential to become a major figure in the film world.

Her portrayal of Emily Brontë in Emily received critical acclaim and positioned her as more than just a TV actress. It proved she could lead a feature film with depth and complexity.

What’s Next for Emma Mackey?

As of 2025, Emma Mackey continues to build a strong portfolio of roles in both English and French cinema. Rumors suggest that she may soon star in a psychological thriller and potentially join a major fantasy franchise. With her growing reputation and ability to captivate audiences, the sky is truly the limit.

Her fans are particularly eager to see whether she returns to period dramas or takes on more genre-bending roles. Either way, Emma’s next move is highly anticipated.

Emma Mackey Is More Than Just a Lookalike

Though Emma Mackey and Margot Robbie may share physical similarities, Emma is blazing a trail uniquely her own. From Sex Education to Emily and beyond, she continues to prove herself as a force in the entertainment world.

Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering her, now is the perfect time to dive into Emma Mackey’s movies and TV shows. With her talent, charm, and growing filmography, Emma is undoubtedly one of the brightest stars of her generation.