Posted: February 20, 2025
Acclaimed producer, actor, and business leader Ian Sharp made an inspiring return to his roots at North Lindsey College, encouraging Creative Media students to chase their dreams and carve their own paths in the entertainment industry.
Sharp, who is also a co-owner of Scunthorpe United Football Club, shared personal stories from his journey, offering invaluable insights into the realities of a career in the film and media industry.
Sharp’s connection to North Lindsey College runs deep. He began his career there in 1997 after leaving Frederick Gough School, studying Performing Arts before heading to London to pursue acting at the prestigious Arts Educational Schools. His passion for storytelling eventually shifted from in front of the camera to behind it, where he found his true calling as a producer. Sharp went on to produce multiple feature films and launched his own production company, Sharp House, which has since gained a formidable reputation in the industry.
“I am and always will be extremely proud to be from Scunthorpe, and I push that messaging to the forefront of all that I do. Coming from a small town doesn’t mean you can’t go on to achieve great things. The media scene here is growing rapidly, creating exciting opportunities for young people eager to break into the industry,” said Sharp. “It’s a true privilege to return to the place where my journey began and offer my support and guidance to students who remind me so much of my younger self.”
His impressive portfolio includes work on high-profile productions such as the BBC’s Happy Valley, Code of Silence, and Disney Studios/Hulu’s The Matriarch. Ian is also the founder of Revolution Talent, a London-based talent agency nurturing emerging stars in the industry, and has recently taken on the role of co-owner of his hometown football club, Scunthorpe United.
Creative Media Production and Technology student, Ryan King was in attendance and said: “It was good to hear from somebody who was once a student here. His story was one of hard work and he is proof that I can do these kinds of things. It was inspiring and hopeful, and didn’t feel so “far away” coming from somebody from Scunthorpe.”
Zoe Slater, Curriculum Lead for Creative Arts and Digital Industries at North Lindsey College, praised Ian’s visit, saying: “It was an absolute privilege to have Ian with us, sharing his wealth of industry knowledge and personal experiences. For our students, hearing from someone who once walked in their shoes and has gone on to achieve such remarkable success was truly inspiring. His words left a profound and lasting impression on everyone.”
Ian encouraged students to embrace every learning opportunity, leaving them with a powerful reminder: “The more you learn, the more you earn.”
The visit not only reignited the students’ ambitions but also highlighted the possibilities for those willing to push boundaries, take risks, and pursue their passion with relentless determination.