Michael Sheen, renowned actor and native of Newport, has made a significant impact both in the world of entertainment and social justice. Best known for his compelling portrayals of real-life figures such as Tony Blair and Brian Clough, Sheen's career has been as diverse as it has been impactful. Recently, Sheen took a bold step by using his own money to cancel £1 million worth of debt for approximately 900 people in South Wales, highlighting his commitment to social justice and financial reform.
In 2011, Sheen returned to his roots by staging his version of "The Passion," a three-day theatrical event in Port Talbot. This location holds personal significance for Sheen, as his family moved there when he was just eight years old. While he was originally born in Newport, Port Talbot became a formative place during his childhood. In his 20s and 30s, Sheen focused on building a successful career in theatre and film, gaining critical acclaim for performances in productions such as "Frost/Nixon."
Sheen's interest in addressing debt and credit issues was sparked in 2016 after watching John Oliver's show, "Last Week Tonight." This newfound awareness led him to establish the End High Cost Credit Alliance in 2018. With this initiative, Sheen sought to dismantle myths surrounding debt and credit issues.
“I never feel like it’s about me – mainly it’s about working with other people or highlighting what they do. I’m not doing it because I want people to think I’m great; I want us to be able to imagine an alternative to this, because this doesn’t work,” Sheen expressed.
Motivated by seeing the impact of debt on friends and family in the UK, Sheen took concrete action. In a remarkable move, he used £100,000 of his own money to purchase £1 million worth of debt. Once acquired, he immediately canceled the debt, relieving hundreds of individuals from their financial burdens.
“I remember making a kind of a deal with myself and saying … I’m not going to get money to that kid, but I could only not do that if I’m then going to do something else. Going, ‘Right, I can see that there’s a way of walking away from here, going home, back to your life, and no one’s going to blame you. But you’re not going to do that.’”
Sheen's efforts were also captured in his documentary, "Michael Sheen's Secret Million Pound Giveaway," which delves into the complexities of debt and credit in South Wales. His project underscores that those struggling with debt are often not making extravagant choices but are instead compelled to rely on high-interest credit systems.
“I’ve heard people say, ‘He can’t be that selfless, because he’s letting everyone know he’s doing it.’ That’s something I had to think about, and I made a conscious choice.”
By declaring himself a not-for-profit actor in 2021, Sheen committed to using his earnings for causes and projects that align with his values. This decision reflects his dedication to creating meaningful change and fostering an environment where alternative solutions to systemic issues are possible.
“And in my own little way, I’m trying to create my own alternative. It doesn’t have to be the way it is.”
The actor emphasizes that his actions are not motivated by personal acclaim but rather by a desire for societal improvement. His work encourages others to consider taking similar steps towards positive change.
“It shows that you’re serious about what you’re doing, but it also encourages other people to take that step.”