William Gao is a rising British actor and musician who has quickly captured the attention of fans worldwide. Best known for his breakout role in the Netflix series Heartstopper, William Gao balances acting and music with remarkable grace.

Quick Bio

Early Life and Background

William Gao was born on February 20, 2003, in London, England. Raised in a diverse, creative household, he developed a love for the arts early on. His Chinese-Singaporean mother and British father provided a culturally rich upbringing, exposing him to a mix of traditions and influences. This blend of cultures helped shape his broad artistic perspective and nurtured his early interests in both acting and music.

Age and Physical Appearance

Currently, William Gao is 22 years old. He is instantly recognizable thanks to his tall and striking physical presence — standing at around 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm), with a slim build, expressive dark brown eyes, and thick, curly black hair. His personal style is casual yet artistic, often combining modern fashion with vintage elements, reflecting his creative personality.

Education and Training

While attending school, William Gao balanced academic pursuits with arts training. He studied at the prestigious Trinity School in Croydon, where he was actively involved in the music and drama programs. He also trained in piano and vocals, further honing his musical abilities. His time in school laid a strong foundation for both his acting and music careers, giving him the tools to step confidently into the entertainment world.

Acting Career Beginnings

William Gao began his acting journey in local theater productions and school plays, where he discovered his passion for performance. With a natural stage presence and deep emotional range, he quickly stood out among his peers. These early experiences fueled his ambition to pursue acting professionally and led to auditions that would eventually open doors in the television industry.

Breakthrough Role

The turning point in William Gao’s acting career came when he was cast as Tao Xu in Netflix’s Heartstopper, a series based on Alice Oseman’s graphic novels. This role earned him international attention and introduced him to millions of fans around the world. His portrayal of Tao, a fiercely loyal friend navigating love and friendship, resonated deeply with viewers and showcased his ability to deliver heartfelt, authentic performances.

Musical Journey

Beyond acting, William Gao is an accomplished musician. He is part of the indie-pop duo Wasia Project, which he formed with his sister, Olivia Hardy. As a multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano and provides vocals, blending soulful melodies with indie and jazz influences. His musical style is introspective and rich, offering fans another side of his creative identity beyond the screen.

Major Projects and Achievements

In acting, William Gao’s role in Heartstopper remains his most prominent achievement to date, but his career is on a fast upward trajectory, with new opportunities emerging in film and television. Musically, the Wasia Project has released several well-received singles, gaining traction among indie music fans. Although still early in his career, William has been recognized as one of the most promising young talents in both acting and music.

Personal Life and Relationships

While William Gao is increasingly in the public eye, he tends to keep his personal life private. He is known to be close to his family, especially his sister, who collaborates with him musically. There are no widely confirmed reports about his romantic relationships, as William prefers to focus public attention on his work and artistic projects rather than his private life.

Personality and Public Image

Fans describe William Gao as humble, thoughtful, and genuine. Despite his growing fame, he maintains an approachable and down-to-earth persona, often engaging warmly with fans on social media and in interviews. His calm demeanor, combined with his artistic intensity, has earned him admiration from both audiences and industry peers alike.

Interests and Hobbies

Outside of acting and music, William Gao enjoys a variety of hobbies. He is passionate about photography, fashion, and exploring creative arts. He also supports mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ rights, reflecting his commitment to using his platform for meaningful causes.

Recent Works and Current Status

Currently, William Gao continues to work on new projects in both television and music. He remains a key part of Heartstopper as it progresses into further seasons, while also expanding his musical work with the Wasia Project. Fans can expect fresh releases and performances as he balances his dual careers with impressive skill.

Conclusion

In just a few short years, William Gao has emerged as a multi-talented artist with a bright future ahead. With his captivating performances, soulful music, and thoughtful public presence, he has become an inspiring figure for many. As he continues to evolve in his craft, fans eagerly await the next chapter in his already impressive journey, knowing that his blend of talent, passion, and authenticity will only take him higher.

FAQs

Who is William Gao?
William Gao is a British actor and musician best known for his role as Tao Xu in Netflix’s Heartstopper and as part of the indie music duo Wasia Project.

How old is William Gao?
As of 2025, William Gao is 22 years old, born on February 20, 2003, in London, England.

What is William Gao known for?
He is widely recognized for acting in Heartstopper and creating indie-pop music with his sister in the Wasia Project.

Does William Gao have a music career?
Yes! William Gao plays piano, sings, and writes music in the Wasia Project, blending indie and jazz sounds.

Is William Gao active on social media?
Yes, he engages with fans on platforms like Instagram, where he shares updates about his projects and personal moments.

What are William Gao’s hobbies?
Outside acting and music, William Gao enjoys photography, fashion, and supporting social causes like mental health awareness.

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