Sebastian Thiel is a writer, director and producer, who created BBC Three comedy-drama Just A Couple, about a couple in a distinctly modern relationship. Most recently, he has directed Dreaming Whilst Black, which piloted on BBC One recently, and is available on iPlayer. 

Born in Zambia, Sebastian was raised in Northwest London, which provided inspiration for his first films, and in his late teens he founded Upshot Entertainment. Sebastian made his TV debut in 2014 on London Live with his documentary Trap Town, and has since built an online following amassing over 10 million views for his self-produced work on his YouTube channel.

Sebastian has featured on TEDx Talks, was listed in the Evening Standard’s Top 25 Under 25 most influential Londoners and included on the BBC’s 2017 Hotlist for New Talent – unveiled by Idris Elba and Tony Hall.

We spoke to Sebastian about his journey from starting Upshot Reels to directing a pilot on BBC One; the importance of finding a form of income that might not be 'the dream', but you're passionate about and that feeds into 'the dream'; and his experience with lockdown, both personally and professionally.

Follow Sebastian here: @sebastianthiel 

Upshot Entertainment: @upshot.ent

Connect with us

areweokaypod@gmail.com

Are We Okay? @areweokaypod

Jemimah: @jemimah.williamsrumble

Olivia: @olivia.moyles

Artwork by Stephanie Clift

Music by Chess Whiffin