Araloyin Oshunremi is a name that has become synonymous with the new wave of British acting talent. At just 21 years old as of 2025, the London-born actor has already captivated global audiences with his raw, authentic, and emotionally resonant performances. Best known for his breakout role as Stefan Tovell in Netflix’s critically acclaimed crime drama, Top Boy, Oshunremi has proven to be a formidable force, showcasing a maturity and depth far beyond his years.
His journey from a chance encounter in a barbershop to starring in some of the most talked-about television shows is a testament to his innate talent, relentless work ethic, and unwavering dedication to his craft.
Who is Araloyin Oshunremi? A Definitive Biography
Araloyin Oshunremi was born in Hackney, London, on June 8, 2004, to Nigerian Yoruba parents. Growing up in a vibrant and diverse community, his early life was marked by a passion for two things: football and drama. While he initially harbored dreams of becoming a professional footballer, a serendipitous event during his teenage years pivoted his life’s trajectory.
At the age of 13, a “street caster” approached him in a barbershop, handing him a flyer for an open audition. This simple leaflet was for what would become his life-changing role: Stefan Tovell in the relaunch of Top Boy on Netflix.
Despite having no formal acting training or prior professional experience, Oshunremi’s natural talent shone through the auditions. He was cast as the younger brother of the show’s co-protagonist, Jamie Tovell, played by Michael Ward. His portrayal of Stefan, a young boy navigating the complexities of adolescence amidst the harsh realities of East London’s drug trade, earned him widespread praise.
He masterfully conveyed the character’s innocence, vulnerability, and eventual hardening, a complex arc that resonated with viewers worldwide. Araloyin’s commitment to his role extended beyond the screen; he has openly spoken about how playing Stefan instilled in him a deeper appreciation for the value of family and loyalty.
While Top Boy brought him international recognition, Araloyin’s career is not limited to this single role. He has consciously sought out diverse characters to showcase his range and avoid being typecast. This ambition led him to secure a role as Otis Smith in another popular Netflix series, the heartwarming and inclusive teen drama, Heartstopper. In a stark contrast to his gritty role in Top Boy, his character in Heartstopper is described as “bubbly and cheerful,” a testament to his versatility.
The Acting Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide to His Career
Araloyin Oshunremi’s career path, while seemingly sudden, is a masterclass in seizing opportunities and showcasing raw, natural talent. Here’s a breakdown of his professional journey:
The Audition That Changed Everything
It all began in a Hackney barbershop. Araloyin, at the age of 13, was handed a flyer for open auditions for a TV series. At the time, he was more focused on football, but his family and friends encouraged his flair for acting, which he’d previously explored in school drama classes. He decided to take a chance and auditioned for Top Boy. His authenticity and natural presence impressed the casting directors, and he secured the role of Stefan Tovell.
Mastering the Role of Stefan Tovell
For a young, inexperienced actor, stepping into the world of a major Netflix production could have been overwhelming. However, Araloyin embraced the challenge. He spent years growing up alongside his character, Stefan, in a show that spanned three seasons.
He has shared that he learned much on set, including technical skills and life lessons, with his co-stars becoming like family. His performance, especially in the final seasons, showcased a remarkable evolution from a shy teenager to a young man grappling with grief and maturity.
Expanding His Horizon with ‘Heartstopper’
After the success of Top Boy, Araloyin demonstrated his ambition by taking on a new and different kind of role. He was cast as Otis Smith in Heartstopper, a show celebrated for its positive and gentle portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships.
The transition from the high-stakes, dramatic world of Top Boy to the lighthearted and uplifting atmosphere of Heartstopper highlighted his ability to adapt his craft to different genres and tones. He has spoken about how he would listen to different music to get into the mindsets of his two contrasting characters, showcasing his dedication to his craft.
Venturing into Film
Araloyin’s talent is not confined to television. He has also made a mark in the world of film. His credits include the 2022 short film Falsehood and a role in the 2025 film Steve, which stars Cillian Murphy. This move to the big screen signals his continued growth and his desire to work with industry heavyweights and further solidify his position as a serious dramatic actor.
Recent Trends and What to Expect in 2025 and Beyond
As of late 2025, Araloyin Oshunremi’s star continues to rise. Here are some of the latest trends and projects that define his current trajectory:
The Release of ‘Steve’: One of his most anticipated projects is the Netflix film Steve, which had a theatrical release in select locations in late 2025 and is scheduled for a wider streaming debut in October 2025. This film, produced by Cillian Murphy’s new production company, places Araloyin alongside a powerhouse cast, a clear indicator of his growing influence and the industry’s belief in his talent.
Fashion Icon Status: Beyond acting, Araloyin has emerged as a figure in the fashion world. He has been featured in a number of high-profile editorials and campaigns, including a recent feature in PAUSE Editorial titled “Individualism with Araloyin Oshunremi.” His unique and authentic personal style, influenced by artists like Burna Boy and Wizkid, has made him a sought-after presence at fashion events, solidifying his role as a cultural icon for his generation.
Aspirational Goals: In various interviews, Araloyin has been transparent about his long-term goals. He has expressed a desire to be considered one of the “greatest” actors and to leave a lasting legacy. He’s also expressed interest in taking on roles in different genres, such as periodic films, and working with top directors. His ambition is not just to act but to create work that has a positive and long-lasting effect on people’s lives, much like a film such as Titanic.
Continued Growth: With his role in the 2024 film MOMO and the upcoming release of Steve, it’s clear that Araloyin is consciously diversifying his portfolio. His trajectory suggests a move towards more complex and challenging roles, with the potential to explore different mediums and international projects.
Practical Tips: The Araloyin Oshunremi Philosophy of Success
While Araloyin’s story is one of natural talent, it’s also underpinned by a strong personal philosophy that anyone can learn from. Here are some practical tips inspired by his journey:
Be Open to Unexpected Opportunities: Araloyin wasn’t actively seeking an acting career when he was handed the flyer in the barbershop. He was willing to try something new, which ultimately changed his life. This teaches us the importance of being open to new paths, even if they’re outside our comfort zone.
Embrace Your Authentic Self: Araloyin’s success is rooted in his authenticity. He brought his real-life experiences and background from Hackney to the character of Stefan, making the performance incredibly believable. He has spoken about the similarity between his own life and Stefan’s, with his older brother’s friends also looking out for him in real life.
Find the Right Mentors: From the guidance he received on the set of Top Boy to the opportunities he’s had to work alongside established actors like Cillian Murphy, Araloyin’s career has benefited from learning from those with more experience. This underscores the importance of seeking out mentors and collaborators who can help you grow.
Consciously Diversify Your Skill Set: Araloyin could have been pigeonholed into playing a specific type of character after Top Boy. Instead, he proactively took on a lighter role in Heartstopper to showcase his versatility. This deliberate strategy of choosing diverse projects is a key to a long and successful career in any field.
FAQs
How old is Araloyin Oshunremi?
Araloyin Oshunremi was born on June 8, 2004, which makes him 21 years old as of 2025.
What is Araloyin Oshunremi known for?
He is best known for his portrayal of Stefan Tovell in the Netflix series Top Boy. He also had a role as Otis Smith in the popular series Heartstopper.
How did Araloyin Oshunremi get into acting?
He was discovered by a street caster in a barbershop in Hackney, London, who gave him a flyer for an open audition for Top Boy. He had no prior professional acting experience but had taken drama classes in school.
What are Araloyin Oshunremi’s upcoming projects?
As of late 2025, one of his most notable upcoming projects is the film Steve, starring alongside Cillian Murphy, which is set to be released on Netflix in October 2025.
Is Araloyin Oshunremi a full-time actor?
Yes, Araloyin Oshunremi is a professional actor. In addition to his on-screen work, he has also emerged as a style icon and is involved in the fashion industry.
Final Thoughts
Araloyin Oshunremi’s story is more than just a tale of a young actor’s rise to fame; it’s a powerful narrative about talent, resilience, and the importance of seizing the moment. From the gritty streets of Hackney to the global stage of Netflix, he has navigated a complex industry with grace, authenticity, and a clear vision for his future. His ability to inhabit deeply emotional and complex characters while also demonstrating a charming and relatable personality has endeared him to a wide and diverse audience.
As he continues to expand his portfolio with ambitious projects and a conscious effort to challenge himself, one thing is clear: Araloyin Oshunremi is not just a rising star, but a defining voice of his generation. His journey serves as an inspiring example of how passion and perseverance can turn a chance encounter into a legacy-building career, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Araloyin Oshunremi On Landing ‘Top Boy‘ Role, Meeting Drake & More | Capital XTRA This video provides a recent and engaging interview with Araloyin Oshunremi, discussing his career and personal experiences, which is relevant to the article’s topic.
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