The Magic of Paul Mescal on TV
Let’s be real—some actors just have it. That indescribable, magnetic quality that makes you forget you’re watching a performance. Paul Mescal? He’s got it in spades.
In just a few years, he’s gone from a theater-trained newcomer to one of the most captivating actors of his generation. And it all started on TV. Maybe you first saw him in Normal People, where he made us all collectively swoon (and cry). Or perhaps you stumbled upon The Deceived and thought, “Wait… isn’t that the guy from…?” Either way, once you see Paul Mescal on screen, you don’t forget him.
So, let’s dive into his best TV roles—the ones that put him on the map, proved his talent, and made us all a little bit obsessed.
Who is Paul Mescal? (And Why is He So Good?)
Before we get into the shows, let’s talk about Paul for a sec.
Born in 1996 in County Kildare, Ireland, he started out on stage. Theater was his first love, and you can see that training in the way he performs—every emotion is deeply felt, every movement intentional.
Then came Normal People, and BOOM. Overnight success. A BAFTA win. Emmy nomination. Suddenly, Hollywood was calling. But no matter how big he gets (Gladiator 2, anyone?), his TV work remains some of his most powerful. Let’s break it down.
1. Normal People (2020)
If you haven’t watched Normal People yet, let me paint the picture. It’s a slow-burn romance, full of longing glances, heart-wrenching silences, and the kind of chemistry that makes you feel like you’re intruding on something private.
Mescal plays Connell, a quiet, introspective guy navigating love, class differences, and his own self-worth. Opposite him is Daisy Edgar-Jones as Marianne, his equally complex love interest. Together, they tell a story that’s raw, intimate, and painfully real.
Why does it work so well?
Because Mescal gets it. He makes Connell feel like a real person—awkward, flawed, and deeply human. His performance was so good it launched his career (and made silver chains ridiculously popular). If you want to see him at his absolute best, start here.
Where to watch: Hulu (US), BBC iPlayer (UK)
2. The Deceived (2020)
Alright, switching gears. In The Deceived, Mescal isn’t the brooding romantic lead. Instead, he plays Sean, a volunteer firefighter caught up in a psychological thriller full of lies, betrayals, and eerie gothic vibes.
It’s a totally different side of him—less introspective, more direct. Sean isn’t the main focus of the show, but whenever he’s on screen, you feel his presence. Mescal brings a grounded, everyman quality to the role that makes the mystery feel even more intense.
The show itself?
Think Rebecca meets Gone Girl. Creepy old houses, unsettling secrets, and a slow unraveling of the truth. It’s worth a watch just to see Mescal flex his acting muscles in a new way.
Where to watch: Channel 5 (UK), streaming services vary.
3. Bump (2019)
Before all the awards and big-budget films, Mescal had a small role in Bump, an Irish miniseries about teenage pregnancy. He plays Matt, a character connected to the central storyline.
Is this his most iconic role? No. But it’s cool to see where he started. Even in smaller parts, you can tell he has something special. It’s like watching a musician play in a tiny bar before they make it big—you just know they’re going places.
Where to watch: Limited availability, check Irish streaming platforms.
What’s Next for Paul Mescal on TV?
Here’s the thing—Mescal’s been leaning more toward movies lately (Aftersun, Gladiator 2), but that doesn’t mean he’s done with TV. If anything, with the rise of high-quality streaming series (The Last of Us, Black Mirror), there’s never been a better time for an actor like him to dive into another show.
Imagine him in a crime thriller? Or a period drama? Or—dare we say—a return to Normal People? The possibilities are endless, and we’re here for all of it.
Final Thoughts
Paul Mescal doesn’t just act—he makes you feel. Whether he’s playing a lovestruck college student or a quiet guy caught in a thriller, he brings authenticity to every role. That’s why his TV work matters. That’s why we keep coming back for more.
So, if you haven’t yet, go watch Normal People. Then The Deceived. Maybe even Bump. And after that? Keep an eye out, because whatever he does next—you know it’s going to be good.
