Emilia Jones is no longer just a “rising star”; she has firmly established herself as one of the most versatile and emotionally resonant British actresses of her generation. From her roots in West End theater to her history-making lead in the Oscar-winning film CODA, she continues to captivate audiences with her commitment to complex, demanding roles.
Below is an updated look at her life, career, and the projects that have made her a household name in 2026.
Quick Facts About Emilia Jones
| Full Name | Emilia Annis I. Jones |
| Date of Birth | February 23, 2002 |
| Age | 23 years old (as of early 2026) |
| Birthplace | Westminster, London, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (167 cm) |
| Profession | Actress, Singer, Lyricist |
| Years Active | 2010–Present |
| Notable Works | CODA, Locke & Key, Task (HBO), The Running Man (2025) |
Early Life: A Legacy of Performance
Born in Westminster, London, Emilia was raised in an environment saturated with creativity. Her father, Aled Jones, is a legendary Welsh singer and broadcaster, while her mother, Claire Fossett, hails from a family of circus performers.
This unique background instilled in Emilia a deep respect for the “grind” of show business. Growing up in Barnes, London, she and her brother, Luca,s were encouraged to explore the arts, leading Emilia to start improv classes at a young age. These classes weren’t just a hobby—they directly led to her professional debut when she was only eight years old.
Theatrical Roots and Early Television
Before her global breakthrough, Emilia honed her craft on the London stage. She made her debut as Young Fiona in Shrek the Musical and earned critical acclaim for her roles in The Turn of the Screw and Far Away.
Her early television career was equally impressive, featuring appearances in iconic series such as:
- Doctor Who: Her role as Merry Gejelh remains a fan favorite for its vocal and emotional maturity.
- Utopia and Wolf Hall: These roles showcased her ability to handle dark, prestige drama early on.
- Locke & Key: As Kinsey Locke, she became a global face for Netflix, navigating a mix of supernatural horror and teen drama.
The “CODA” Breakthrough and Musical Prowess
The definitive turning point in her career was the 2021 film CODA. Playing Ruby Rossi, the only hearing member of a Deaf family, Emilia underwent a grueling nine-month preparation period where she:
- Mastered American Sign Language (ASL).
- Trained extensively in live professional singing.
Her performance earned her a BAFTA nomination for Best Actress and cemented her reputation for extreme dedication. Unlike many actors who lip-sync, Emilia’s musical background allowed her to perform all her songs live on set, adding a layer of raw authenticity to the film.
Recent Success and Upcoming Blockbusters
As of 2026, Emilia has successfully transitioned from indie darling to prestige TV and blockbuster lead.
- Task (HBO): In 2025, she starred alongside Mark Ruffalo in this highly acclaimed HBO crime drama, further proving her range in the “prestige TV” landscape.
- The Running Man (2025): Emilia took a massive leap into sci-fi action, starring in Edgar Wright’s remake of the Stephen King classic alongside Glen Powell.
- Winner (2024): She received praise for her portrayal of whistle-blower Reality Winner, showcasing her ability to carry a biographical political thriller.
- Bad Bridgets: She is set to star in this upcoming period thriller produced by Margot Robbie’s LuckyChap Entertainment.
Personal Life and Relationship Status
Emilia remains notoriously private regarding her personal life. While she was previously linked to her Locke & Key co-star Connor Jessup, those rumors were never officially confirmed as a long-term relationship. Currently, she appears to be single and focused entirely on her burgeoning film career and musical projects.
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Awards and Critical Recognition
Emilia’s trophy cabinet is growing rapidly. Beyond her BAFTA and Critics’ Choice nominations, she has won a Gotham Award for Breakthrough Performer and was featured on Variety’s “10 Actors to Watch” list. Critics frequently cite her expressive eyes and “naturalistic” acting style as her greatest assets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How old is Emilia Jones now?
As of January 2026, she is 23 years old. She will celebrate her 24th birthday on February 23, 2026.
Q: Did Emilia Jones really sing in CODA?
Yes. She performed all her own vocals and spent nearly a year training her voice specifically for the role of Ruby Rossi.
Q: What is her most recent major project?
Her most recent major film is the 2025 remake of The Running Man, and she recently starred in the HBO series Task.
Q: Is she related to Aled Jones?
Yes, she is his daughter. Aled Jones is a renowned Welsh singer recognized worldwide for his rendition of “Walking in the Air.”