Former Hollyoaks actor Sonny Flood has started a bid to become a barrister, beginning the Bar Professional Training Course at BPP Law School in Manchester.
Flood played Josh Ashworth for five years on the soap, taking on a series of hard-hitting storylines.
“I always wanted to study history first at undergraduate level and then pursue the Graduate Diploma in Law,” said Flood, who has gained legal work experience as a litigation paralegal at Squire Patton Boggs.
“But because I didn’t go to university until I was 22 due to my acting jobs, I decided that now was the right time to pursue law completely.
“I like the complexity, intricacy and detail of law. I like solving problems and thinking of ways through them.
“Couple those aspects with the soft skills that the law requires as well as the ‘theatrical’ side of being a barrister, I see it as a really fulfilling and rewarding profession.
BPTC programme leader Mark Keith said: “Sonny struck me as someone who had the potential to be an excellent barrister. He not only has the intellect but also combines it with a commercial edge which is necessary at the Bar these days.”
“Acting and the law both require a certain amount of confidence. In both professions you have to be present, portray and provoke emotions and reactions,” Flood added.
“It’s also defined by hard work and that’s something you need to be prepared for both in acting and the law.”
“I’d never say never to a return to acting; however, I’m really happy where I am right now.”
