10-year-old Lancashire actor Henry Bell, who is represented by MediaCity-based Scream Management, is the star of the just-launched Shelter 2025 Christmas advert.
The campaign, titled ‘Earworm’, was created by housing charity Shelter and its creative agency partner, Don’t Panic, to highlight the emotional impact of temporary accommodation on children and families. In it, Henry performs Bonnie Tyler’s classic ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’ acapella, a creative choice designed to “show authenticity and allow children to relate to his character.”
The advert was directed by award-winning filmmaker Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman, Better Man) and choreographed by internationally-renowned choreographer Ashley Wallen, known for his work on major musicals and global concert tours with stars including Kylie Minogue and Mariah Carey.
Blackpool-based Bell, who trains at Scream Theatre Schools, a TV, film, and theatre academy which runs classes across the North West, already has a budding acting career, with his recent credits including roles in Netflix’s ‘Project Codename’ (playing Blackmere), 40 episodes of Netflix Animation’s ‘Simon’, and commercial appearances for Monzo, Aldi, and Amazon.
Daniel Wheldon, producer of the ad, said: “Henry was an absolute joy to work with. He is a very talented lad [who] I’m sure will go very far.”
Scream Management, established in 1998, represents artists nationwide and operates across four divisions (Kids, Adults, Voices, and Commercial) from offices in Media City and Covent Garden. Alongside Bell, the agency has supported the early careers of actors including Jenna Coleman, Lucy Fallon, Ruby O’Donnell, Kyran Bowes, and many more.
Jessica Bell, head of young talent at Scream Management, said: “Scream’s Kids Division is committed to developing young performers from across the North West and providing direct pathways into professional productions across TV, film, theatre, and audio. Henry’s work with Michael Gracey on a campaign of this scale demonstrates the level of talent emerging from this region and the importance of continuing to support that talent.”
Scream Management is always on the lookout for new talent, and the agency will be hosting open auditions in January 2026. Find out more via the website.
