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Actor Tom Usher Reveals Unexpected Past Jobs

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Friday, January 30th 2026 at 14:07 GMT by The Mirror
      Locales: UNITED KINGDOM, AUSTRIA, SPAIN

London, UK - January 30th, 2026 - Tom Usher, a rising actor currently captivating audiences in Luke Barnes' new play The Walk Up at London's Bush Theatre, has recently revealed a fascinating backstory that highlights the often-unseen struggles faced by aspiring performers. While many recognize him for his role as Agent Baxter in the critically acclaimed BBC series The Night Manager, Usher's path to the screen - and now the stage - was paved with far more humble beginnings.

Usher, now 33, shared with MailOnline the surprising variety of jobs he undertook before landing roles in the entertainment industry. These weren't the typical barista or retail positions often associated with aspiring actors; Usher's pre-fame employment included physically demanding work as a removal man and, perhaps even more unexpectedly, a stint as a waiter in a lap-dancing bar.

"I was a removal man for a while, moving people's sofas and beds," Usher recounted, painting a picture of a life drastically different from the red carpets and premieres he now occasionally graces. He further detailed his employment at the lap-dancing bar, matter-of-factly stating, "I also used to work in a lap-dancing bar. It was just a job, you know? It paid well."

Usher's candor speaks to a broader reality within the acting profession: the intense competition and financial instability that often characterize the early stages of a career. Many talented individuals are forced to take on unconventional or demanding jobs to support themselves while pursuing their passion. This reality is rarely showcased alongside the glamour of the entertainment world, making Usher's revelation a refreshing and relatable insight.

The juxtaposition of his former occupations with his role in The Night Manager - a high-stakes spy thriller starring Tom Hiddleston and Olivia Colman - is particularly striking. To go from hauling furniture and serving in a nightlife venue to sharing screen time with such established stars underscores the unpredictable and often circuitous route to success in the acting world. Agent Baxter, though a smaller role, placed Usher amongst some of the UK's most celebrated talent, and provided a crucial stepping stone.

Currently, Usher is receiving positive reviews for his performance in The Walk Up. The play, a gripping exploration of ambition, camaraderie, and the human spirit, follows a young man guiding a group of amateur hikers up a mountain. Early reviews highlight Usher's nuanced portrayal of his character, demonstrating a range that transcends his earlier television work. The Bush Theatre, known for nurturing emerging talent and staging innovative productions, provides an ideal platform for Usher to showcase his skills. The Walk Up is running until February 17th, offering audiences a chance to witness Usher's talent firsthand.

Usher's story is a testament to perseverance and the dedication required to break into a notoriously competitive field. It's a reminder that behind every polished performance and glamorous appearance, there often lies a history of hard work, sacrifice, and a willingness to embrace unconventional paths. While the details of his past might seem surprising to some, they offer a grounding perspective on the realities of pursuing a dream in the arts, and serve as an inspiring example for other aspiring actors facing similar challenges. The actor's willingness to openly discuss these experiences is a refreshing change in an industry often guarded by carefully constructed images and narratives. It's a reminder that success isn't always linear, and often requires taking the path less traveled - even if that path involves moving sofas or working in a less conventional environment.