Josh O'Connor Returns to Boxing Role in Cinematic Release of Golden Boy

Josh O'Connor stars in a new cinematic adaptation of Clifford Odets' Golden Boy, which opens in theaters on November 5. The film captures his performance in the play following a sold-out run at London's Almeida Theatre. National Theatre Live is bringing the production to screens worldwide starting next month.

O'Connor portrays Joe Bonaparte, a talented violinist who enters professional boxing to pursue fame and money. The character must decide what he is willing to sacrifice to find his place in a world that demands he pick a side. The play is directed by Sam Yates and features a live string quartet alongside the cast.

A first-look clip released on October 28 shows O'Connor grappling with his desire to return to music. In the scene, he embraces a past version of himself playing the violin while blood runs down his face from a boxing injury. The footage was filmed during a live performance at the Almeida Theatre. Fellow cast members Hayley Squires and Daniel Mays also appear in the production.

The role marks O'Connor's return to the London stage after a five-year absence. During that time, he achieved global recognition for his performance as King Charles in Netflix's The Crown. He has also earned acclaim for his roles in La Chimera, Challengers, Knives Out: Wake Up Dead Man, and Disclosure Day.

Tickets for the November 5 release are currently available on the National Theatre Live website. The film serves as a direct recording of the live stage performance rather than a new theatrical production.