Hayley Squires

Hayley Squires The Fierce Talent Behind British Grit and Grace

Hayley Squires is one of Britain’s most compelling acting talents, known for her raw, unfiltered portrayals of working-class women and emotionally complex roles. With a career marked by bold choices, a naturalistic style, and award-nominated performances, Hayley has become a standout name in British cinema and television. Whether it’s her unforgettable role in I, Daniel Blake or her chilling performance in Adult Material, she continues to redefine what it means to be a modern actress.

In this article, we dive deep into Hayley Squires age, early life, breakthrough roles, most talked-about movies and TV shows, personal life, net worth, and what makes her such a powerful presence in today’s entertainment industry.

Quick Bio Hayley Squires

Full NameHayley Squires
Date of BirthApril 16, 1988
Age (as of 2025)37 years old
Place of BirthForest Hill, London, England
NationalityBritish
ProfessionActress, Screenwriter
Years Active2010 – Present
Known ForI, Daniel Blake, Adult Material
EducationRose Bruford College
Net Worth$1.5 million – $2 million (est.)
AwardsBAFTA Nominee, BIFA Nominee
Marital StatusUnmarried
Notable TraitNaturalistic, working-class roles

Early Life and Education

Born on April 16, 1988, in Forest Hill, London, Hayley Squires age as of 2025 is 37 years old. Raised in South London, Hayley grew up in a working-class family and remained closely connected to her roots, which would later deeply influence the characters she chose to portray. She attended Rose Bruford College, one of the UK’s leading drama schools, and graduated with a degree in Acting.

From a young age, Hayley showed interest in performance arts, writing, and storytelling. Her strong foundation in theatre gave her the tools to bring an emotionally honest and often understated approach to her acting work.

Breakthrough with I, Daniel Blake

Hayley’s breakout moment came in 2016, when she starred in Ken Loach’s Cannes-winning drama I, Daniel Blake. In this critically acclaimed film, she played Katie, a single mother struggling with poverty, bureaucracy, and dignity in modern-day Britain. The role earned her a BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actress and won widespread praise for its authenticity and power.

“Katie in I, Daniel Blake wasn’t just a character — she was a voice for so many people in the UK.”

Squires’ performance was often highlighted for its emotional control, with critics pointing out her ability to say more with silence and glances than others might do with entire monologues.

Hayley Squires Movies and TV Shows

After I, Daniel Blake, Hayley Squires movies and TV shows list grew rapidly. Here’s a look at her notable performances:

  • 1. Adult Material (2020)

A Channel 4 mini-series that pushed boundaries, Adult Material starred Squires as Jolene Dollar, a veteran adult film actress navigating the industry, motherhood, and personal crisis. The series was lauded for being both bold and nuanced, with Hayley receiving BAFTA and Critics’ Choice Television Award nominations.

  • 2. In the Earth (2021)

In this psychological horror film directed by Ben Wheatley, Hayley played Olivia Wendle. The film, set during a mysterious pandemic, showcased her ability to shift into genre-bending material while maintaining emotional depth.

  • 3. The Electrical Life of Louis Wain (2021)

Starring alongside Benedict Cumberbatch and Claire Foy, Squires played Marie Wain in this quirky biographical drama about the eccentric artist Louis Wain. It was another example of her versatility as she navigated historical roles with grace.

  • 4. Murder (2016), Call the Midwife (2014), Southcliffe (2013)

Her early roles in acclaimed British television dramas like Southcliffe and Call the Midwife also reflect her steady climb through serious, character-driven TV.

  • 5. True Things (2021), The Miniaturist (2017)

From period dramas to indie films, Hayley’s choice of work continues to reflect her dedication to stories with meaning, emotional complexity, and strong female voices.

Hayley Squires’ Acting Style Naturalism at Its Best

What sets Hayley Squires apart is her commitment to naturalistic performances. She doesn’t go for glamorous, exaggerated portrayals. Instead, she embodies her characters with subtlety, realism, and a kind of emotional vulnerability that feels deeply human.

She often prepares for roles by immersing herself in research and spending time with people whose lives mirror the characters she plays. This empathy shines through in every role she takes on.

Hayley Squires Net Worth What Is She Worth?

While Hayley Squires is not the type to flash wealth or discuss money in the media, her consistent body of work has certainly brought financial stability and recognition.

As of 2025, Hayley Squires net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 million to $2 million. Most of her earnings come from acting in independent films, high-quality television series, and stage work. She’s also a screenwriter, which adds to her income portfolio.

Despite the success, Squires remains grounded and continues to choose roles based on substance over stardom.

Personal Life Is Hayley Squires Married?

When it comes to her private life, Hayley is notably reserved. There has been curiosity about Hayley Squires partner, but the actress has never publicly confirmed any long-term relationship. She is known to be highly focused on her work and values privacy over tabloid attention.

As of now, Hayley Squires is not married and has not made any public announcements about a partner or children.

Hayley Squires as a Writer

Many fans don’t realize that Hayley is also an accomplished screenwriter. She wrote the play Vera Vera Vera, which premiered at the Royal Court Theatre in 2012. Her writing leans toward the same themes her acting does — gritty realism, family struggles, and working-class resilience.

In interviews, she’s expressed a desire to write more original works for both stage and screen in the future. Her unique voice — both on screen and in writing — gives her the power to shape the narratives she believes in.

Hayley Squires

Awards and Recognition

Hayley has received multiple nominations, including:

  • BAFTA TV and Film Awards
  • Royal Television Society Awards
  • Broadcasting Press Guild Awards
  • British Independent Film Awards (BIFA)

She’s often applauded not just for acting but for choosing scripts that challenge societal norms, question power structures, and give voice to marginalized communities.

Hayley Squires and the Future of British Acting

In an industry often dominated by glamour and big-budget franchises, Hayley Squires stands out as an artist who prioritizes storytelling and human connection. Her influence in British cinema is growing steadily, and she’s frequently compared to actors like Olivia Colman and Andrea Riseborough for her range and emotional intelligence.

There’s little doubt that we’ll see Hayley Squires taking on even more powerful roles, possibly even expanding into directing or more screenwriting.

Hayley Squires was born on April 16, 1988. As of 2025, she is 37 years old.

She is best known for her role as Katie in I, Daniel Blake and Jolene Dollar in Adult Material.

While she has not won a BAFTA, she has been nominated for several major awards including BAFTA, BIFA, and Royal Television Society awards.

Final Thoughts

Hayley Squires is more than just an actress — she’s a storyteller who brings heart, pain, grit, and humanity to every role she takes on. With her unique blend of authenticity and talent, she’s changing the face of British cinema, one character at a time. Whether you discovered her in I, Daniel Blake, were captivated by her in Adult Material, or are just now learning her name, one thing is clear: Hayley Squires is a force worth watching.