30 Facts About Anna Samson

Early Life and Education

Anna Samson's journey began in England, but her early years were marked by significant geographical changes that shaped her perspective.

1. Born on November 23, 1989, in England, Anna spent her early childhood in Nigeria.
2. Her family moved to Sydney, Australia, during her early teens, a transition that influenced her career.
3. She attended the Newtown High School of the Performing Arts, a prestigious institution that nurtured her passion for the arts.
4. Samson graduated from the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA) in 2010, where she received the John Tallis Award for Excellence in dramatic studies.

Career Beginnings

Anna's career took off after her education, with early roles that laid the foundation for her future success.

5. After completing her education, she joined the Red Stitch Actors Theatre.
6. Her early roles included performances in productions such as Ruben Guthrie and Day One, A Hotel, Evening.

Theatre Credits

Anna's versatility as an actress is evident in her extensive theatre work.

7. She appeared in Bliss at Belvoir Theatre and Malthouse Theatre.
8. Pompeii LA at Malthouse Theatre showcased her range.
9. She performed in Birdland, Skylight, The Sublime, and The Heretic at Melbourne Theatre Company.
10. Her roles at Red Stitch included Ruben Guthrie, Day One, A Hotel, Evening, and Wet House.
11. At Darlinghurst Theatre Company, she starred in The Bitter Tears of Petra Von Kant, After All This, and Love.
12. She took part in Opening Night at Belvoir Theatre.
13. Anatomy of a Suicide at The Old Fitz, Seymour Centre, added to her impressive list.

Transition to Television

Anna's move from stage to screen marked a significant shift in her career.

14. She made her television debut in the 2012 miniseries Conspiracy 365.
15. Her TV credits include roles in Jack Irish, Winners & Losers, and Dead Lucky.
16. She appeared in popular series like Home and Away and HBO's The Leftovers.
17. Other TV roles include Dr Blake, Offspring, and Children of the Corn (2020 remake).
18. She starred in What If It Works?, Halifax: Retribution, and Wake in Fright (2017).

Film Debut and Recognition

Anna's talent extended to the big screen, earning her critical acclaim.

19. She made her feature film debut in Crime & Punishment in 2016.
20. Her role in What If It Works? further solidified her presence in the film industry.
21. For her role in Simon Stephens' play Birdland, she was nominated for Best Female Actor in a Supporting Role in a Play at the 16th Helpmann Awards in 2016.

Personal Life and Advocacy

Anna's personal experiences have shaped her advocacy and public persona.

22. She has been involved in high-profile controversies, including allegations of sexual harassment against actor Craig McLachlan during the filming of The Doctor Blake Mysteries.
23. Her experiences led her to advocate for better working conditions and respect in the entertainment industry.
24. In 2021, she faced criticism on social media after her casting announcement for Home and Away. She responded by emphasizing the importance of respect and inclusivity.

Current and Future Projects

Anna continues to take on challenging roles and pursue academic interests.

25. She played Mia Anderson in Home and Away from February 2021 to April 2022.
26. As of 2024, she is set to star as DI Mackenzie Clarke in the Death in Paradise spin-off Return to Paradise.

Academic Pursuits and Humanitarian Work

Anna's commitment to education and humanitarian causes is as impressive as her acting career.

27. She is pursuing a Master of Arts in Strategic Studies at the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre (SDSC) at the Australian National University (ANU).
28. Before returning to university, she worked with NGOs in Australia and overseas, focusing on forced migration issues.
29. Samson holds two first-class honors degrees and has completed her Master's program. She is now pursuing a PhD at the SDSC.
30. Her PhD research focuses on the dynamics and causes of conflicts, aiming to bridge the gap between military, civilian, and non-governmental agencies.

Anna Samson: A Multifaceted Talent

Anna Samson's journey from her early days in England and Nigeria to becoming a celebrated actress in Australia showcases her versatility and dedication. Her impressive theatre credits, including roles in Bliss, Pompeii LA, and Birdland, highlight her range on stage. Transitioning to television, she made a mark with performances in Home and Away, Jack Irish, and The Leftovers. Beyond acting, Samson's academic pursuits in strategic studies and her humanitarian work underline her commitment to making a difference. Her advocacy for better working conditions in the entertainment industry and her involvement in community initiatives reflect her passion for positive change. As she takes on new roles, like DI Mackenzie Clarke in Return to Paradise, Samson continues to evolve, leaving a lasting impact on both the arts and society. Her story is one of resilience, talent, and a relentless drive to challenge norms.