Oldham performer Abbie Kay Ashworth stars alongside BAFTA-Winning Actor Stephen Graham in New Myles Smith Music Video
Reporter: Susan Pownall
Date published: 22 June 2026
Abbie Kay Ashworth
Abbie Kay Ashworth, a young performer who trains at the Sarah Byrne Acting Academy (SBAA) and represented by SBM Agency, has landed a standout role in the official short film for singer songwriter Myles Smith’s new short film ‘Hold Me In The Dark’. Written and directed by Myles himself, Abbie also stars alongside BAFTA - winning actor Stephen Graham.
The video sees Abbie share the screen with Graham, one of Britain's most celebrated actors widely known for his performances in Boiling Point, This Is England and Adolescence. The collaboration marks a major milestone in Abbie's young career, and a proud moment for the academy and agency that have supported her development.
Abbie Kay Ashworth said “It was such a surreal feeling, working with somebody I have looked up to in TV and film for such a long time, such a dream come true. It was such an honour to be able to work with Stephen, he's such a down to earth and lovely person. Working with Stephen didn't disappoint at all, his acting to see in person whilst working with him is truly something phenomenal and out of this world. His advice and kind words will forever stick with me in my heart and soul. I hope to work with him again someday!!”
“Working with Myles was such an honour, the dedication and passion he puts into his work is truly something extraordinary and I’m so incredibly grateful and inspired to be able to work with a person like him. When I first met him, when I first step onto set I already knew he was going to be so welcoming with me, and he was! Myles is so funny and so kind and overall, just a wonderful human being to be around. I am so incredibly proud of his new album and to be a part of something he holds close to his heart. I hope to see him again soon!"
Sarah Byrne, Sarah Byrne Acting Academy said “We are so incredibly proud of Abbie. This is exactly the kind of opportunity we hope for every student at the academy a chance to learn from and work alongside an actor of Stephen Graham's calibre. Abbie has worked so hard, and to see that translate into a role like this is a wonderful moment for her and for everyone at Sarah Byrne Acting Academy.”
“Abbie's casting in this music video is a brilliant example of the calibre of talent we represent at SBM Agency. Watching her grow in confidence and ability has been a privilege and seeing her share the screen with someone as respected as Stephen Graham is testament to her dedication. We're excited for everyone to see her on screen, and we look forward to supporting Abbie through many more opportunities to come.”
Sarah Byrne Acting Academy, based in Oldham, provides performing arts training to young people across Greater Manchester. Many students go on to secure professional television, film and music industry work through sister agency SBM Agency. Abbie's casting alongside Stephen Graham is a clear example of local talent reaching national platforms.
The music video for Myles Smith's new single is set for release on Monday 22 June 2026 and will be available to view on You Tube.
The release follows a landmark week for Myles, whose debut album ‘My Mess, My Heart, My Life.’ has been met with widespread critical acclaim. With more than 4.7 billion global streams, a BRIT Rising Star Award, an Ivor Novello Award and a sold-out headline show at London’s The O2 already to his name, Myles Smith continues to establish himself as one of the UK’s most compelling new artists.
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