Alex Hassell, 45, was born in Essex and trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama. He co-founded an experimental theatre group and caught the attention of the RSC, where he went on to star in Henry IV Parts 1 and 2, Henry V, and Death of a Salesman. On TV, he’s appeared in His Dark Materials and Rivals. He reprises the role of Rupert Campbell-Black in season 2 on Disney+. He’s married to actor Emma King and lives in London.
What is your greatest fear?
Loneliness.
What is your earliest memory?
Kissing a girl through the window of a playhouse.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Being too eager to please.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Careless cruelty.
What was your most embarrassing moment?
On one of my first jobs, Cold Mountain, I got a wasp in my ear in front of Jude Law. He couldn’t see the wasp, so he just saw me freaking out.
What is your most treasured possession?
My dad’s chair. He sat in it every single day, and now I sit in it at my desk. I’ve realized that a lot of how I think about acting has been shaped by him being a vicar and the way he talked to people. Sitting in his chair means a lot to me.
Describe yourself in three words.
Driven, sensitive, and playful.
What would your superpower be?
To play guitar. I think most actors secretly want to be frontmen of bands.
What is your guiltiest pleasure?
Staying in my pyjamas long after the postman has come.
What makes you unhappy?
Cleaning.
What do you most dislike about your appearance?
My very, very skinny ankles.
If you could bring something extinct back to life, what would you choose?
Marlon Brando.
What is your most unappealing habit?
Taking things too literally.
Who is your celebrity crush?
Ethan Hawke. I’ve thought about writing to him to ask if he’d be my mentor.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
My brother Joe—he’s nine years older than me.
What does love feel like?
Being accepted for who you are, but also being encouraged to keep growing.
What has been your biggest disappointment?
Not playing Stanley Kowalski in A Streetcar Named Desire. I’m a huge Brando fan and a big Tennessee Williams fan, and it’s a part I’d love to try. I still could, but I’m probably too old now.
When did you last cry, and why?
On Monday in therapy.
When was the last time you changed your mind about something significant?
On Monday in therapy.
What keeps you awake at night?
To-do lists.
Would you rather have more sex, money, or fame?
I’m content enough in all three areas.
How would you like to be remembered?
As someone with integrity.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
To keep trying to listen to yourself.
What happens when we die?
Nothing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of FAQs based on the quote from Alex Hassell covering the story itself the context and related practical tips
FAQs About Alex Hassells Wasp Story
1 What is the story about Alex Hassell and the wasp
Alex Hassell once had a wasp fly into his ear while he was acting in a scene opposite Jude Law Because Jude Law couldnt see the wasp he just saw Alex panicking for no apparent reason
2 Why is this story so famous or funny
Its a perfect example of a you had to be there moment on a film or theater set The humor comes from the contrast a serious acting scene versus a very real panicked reaction to a tiny insect that no one else can see
3 Was this during a play a movie or a TV show
While Alex Hassell has worked with Jude Law on stage the specific story is often told anecdotally Its most likely from a theater performance where there are no cuts or retakes
4 How did Alex Hassell get the wasp out of his ear
He hasnt publicly detailed the extraction method in this specific story In general the best way is to tilt your head to the side and gently pour warm oil into the ear to suffocate the insect then flush it out Never use a cotton swab
5 What should you do if a bug flies into your ear
Stay calm Panicking makes the bug move more
Tilt your head so the affected ear is facing up
Pour warm oil into the ear This usually kills the bug
Tilt your head the other way to let the oil and bug drain out
See a doctor if you cant get it out feel pain or hear buzzing
6 Is it dangerous to have a wasp in your ear
It is not common but it can be dangerous The main risks are
Stinging The wasp may sting the inside of your ear canal causing intense pain and swelling
