Daniel Mays, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in popular series such as Line of Duty and Ashes to Ashes, recently opened up about the balancing act of fatherhood and his career during interviews surrounding the premiere of his latest project, Disney+’s A Thousand Blows. Speaking to The Standard, Mays shared heartfelt insights about his family life and how it intertwines with his acting career.
The picturesque town of Salcombe holds special significance for Mays and his family. Introduced to the charming coastal town by his wife, Louise Burton, Mays revealed, “We try to go every year for a couple of weeks to recharge.” He described Salcombe as “a place I feel so connected to,” emphasizing how it allows him to unwind from the hectic life of acting. Family trips involve renting a cottage and enjoying boat rides along the estuary. Mays reminisced about their fun adventures: “You can get a boat and go beach hopping up and down the estuary.”
Aside from exploring the scenic beauty of Salcombe, Mays enjoys bonding with his family through various activities. He noted their growing enthusiasm for boating, stating, “My son and I have got really…into it and got taught by an expert.” The family even earned licenses to manage small vessels, enhancing their time spent on the water with activities like seal watching.
Despite his passion for acting, Mays has often reflected on how fatherhood changed his perspective on life. He made headlines earlier this year when candidly discussing how becoming a dad was not initially part of his life plan. “The first time it happened it was not on the cards, let’s just put it this way. It was kind of, oh my god moment,” he shared during his interview with The Big Issue. Mays concluded it was through this unexpected twist of fate he learned valuable lessons on responsibility.
Becoming a father twice has now been framed as “the greatest role” he has ever played. He expressed gratitude for the life lessons learned through parenting, admitting, “It was an absolute blessing to me, because it forced me to become responsible. It actually made me […] a […] person and […] actor.” This awakening has transformed his approach both to life and the craft he loves.
Despite the challenges uncertainty brings, Mays' pride remains evident as he supports his children’s pursuits. He treasured the moment his son made his debut on stage, claiming it was “the proudest day of his life.” Mays understands firsthand the sacrifices his parents made to support his acting dreams, leading him to instill similar values within his family, encouraging a future generation of performers.
Mays celebrated the intimate experiences shared within his family, like their shared travels and outings. While recalling past holidays, he expressed, “The tranquility is hypnotic.” The simple joys of family life, whether sailing, exploring local pubs, or watching stars alongside other well-known figures like David Tennant, reflect Mays’ commitment to keeping his family grounded.
On the occasion of his appearance on Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch, Mays showcased the balance of his professional and personal life to fans, articulately speaking about his motivations. His family's influence on his career has been substantial, mixing the joys of parenthood with aspirations for professional excellence.
Now, reflecting on his life and career, Mays remarked, “Now I know it was the best thing to ever happen to me.” The transformation he has experienced emphasizes how fatherhood and acting coexist, shaping his identity as both an artist and as a family man. With every project and family adventure, Daniel Mays embodies the essence of what it means to juggle career ambitions alongside precious family moments. His experiences herald the realities faced by many working parents, weaving together the tales of family life and professional accomplishments.