Teesside actor heads off for some medieval messy madness

Fresh from finishing his degree at Teesside University, aspiring actor Elliott Francis is jetting off to Canada for a starring role in an action-packed kids adventure game show.

Elliott, 24, who has recently completed his BA (Hons) Computer Animation, plays the defender Thorne in Splatalot – the gunge-filled show where youngsters have to make it past the feared defenders to storm the Splatalot castle.

Described as a mix between a children’s Wipeout and Gladiators, Splatalot is hosted by kids’ TV favourites Dick and Dom and is shown on CBBC.

Elliott, who lives in Ingleby Barwick, starred in the first series of Splatalot which was shown across 26 episodes last summer. His character Thorne has been kept on for the second series and he will head off for two months filming in Toronto starting in mid-June.

To add to the kudos, Splatalot was recently snapped up by Disney XD in America and the second series will be aired in France, Australia, UK, Canada, Czech Republic and America.

Elliott has had roles in the Harry Potter films as part of the Slug Club, as well as a number of regional film projects. Next year he is due to fly to Arizona to feature in a film called Rebel City Rumble.

Best feeling in the world 'Acting has always been a dream of mine and I have been lucky enough to get some fantastic opportunities,' said Elliott.

'There is something about that feeling when you are on set which I can’t describe. It’s the best feeling in the world, I absolutely love it.

'When I found out that Disney had come on board it was very exciting and I knew there would be some changes, so to get asked to take part in the second series of Splatalot is amazing. Filming is so much fun and I can really immerse myself in the character.

'It has not been easy combining a degree with a constant fitness regime that is required and also a part-time job, but if you want something, as much as I wanted this, then you pull out all the stops. I can’t wait to get over there and get started.'

Elliott won a three year scholarship to Redroofs Theatre School before returning to Teesside to study computer animation. His mother Sue Francis, who is also his agent, runs the Kreative Talent Agency for aspiring actors and performers.

Elliott said: 'I chose to study computer animation at Teesside because I am interested in art. Having already been to acting school, I wanted to study something which is linked to the media industry.

'The course was fantastic and has really helped me with my acting career. The key aspect of animation is understanding how actors and characters move. Considering the type of acting roles I go for, the course has been a big help and has given me a lot of confidence.

'I would definitely recommend Teesside University - finishing the degree was a great achievement. I am getting more and more acting roles now and hopefully it is something I can do as a full-time career.'

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