In the world of entertainment, few names have risen as quickly and meaningfully as William Gao. A talented actor and musician, Gao has managed to capture hearts globally with his breakout role in Netflix’s Heartstopper while simultaneously making waves with his music duo, Wasia Project.
As an artist of mixed heritage and a voice for representation, William Gao embodies the new wave of talent redefining how young stars navigate film, television, and music. His story is not only about fame but about artistry, identity, and authenticity.
Early Life and Background
Born on 20 February 2003 in Croydon, England, William Gao grew up in a multicultural household with an English father and a Chinese mother. From an early age, creativity was woven into his life. He studied piano, joined the Trinity Boys Choir, and later enrolled in Trinity School, excelling in music, drama, and Chinese studies.
By the time he was a teenager, William Gao was already balancing the arts—his deep love for performance eventually leading him into the spotlight of professional acting and music.
William Gao’s Journey Into Acting
Heartstopper and Breakthrough Success
The world first truly discovered William Gao in 2022 with his role as Tao Xu in the acclaimed Netflix series Heartstopper. The show, based on Alice Oseman’s graphic novels, became a cultural phenomenon for its authentic portrayal of LGBTQ+ youth, friendship, and love.
As Tao, Gao brought warmth, humor, and emotional depth to the screen, earning global recognition. Fans connected deeply with his performance, and critics praised his natural charisma. His role even earned him a Children’s & Family Emmy nomination—a major achievement so early in his career.
Other Movies and TV Shows
While Heartstopper remains his most iconic role, William Gao movies and tv shows also include:
- Sunrise (2024) – portraying Edward Loi in an indie drama.
- Breakwater (2025) – taking on the role of Matt in an anticipated feature.
- The Trials (2022) – a stage performance at Donmar Warehouse, showing his versatility beyond screen acting.
This expanding portfolio showcases his ambition to grow as an actor, moving fluidly between stage, television, and film.
The Musical Side of William Gao
Even before his acting fame, music was central to William Gao’s life. Alongside his younger sister Olivia Hardy, he co-founded the duo Wasia Project in 2019. Their sound—blending jazz, R&B, and indie influences—quickly attracted attention.
In 2022, they released their debut EP How Can I Pretend?, with standout tracks like “ur so pretty” gaining global love. The fact that their music even appeared in Heartstopper Season 2 highlighted Gao’s rare ability to bridge his passions.
For William, music is more than a hobby—it is a core part of his artistry and another way he connects with audiences.
Representation and Identity: Why William Gao Matters
Representation in media matters, and William Gao has become a vital figure in shifting narratives. As a young British-Chinese actor, he is breaking barriers in a landscape where Asian representation has often been overlooked.
In interviews, Gao has spoken openly about identity, heritage, and the responsibility of representing communities. His presence in mainstream television and film sends a powerful message: diversity belongs at the center of global storytelling.
William Gao Height, Style, and Public Persona
Many fans wonder about details of their favorite stars, and William Gao height often comes up. Standing at approximately 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm), he carries a striking screen presence. His tall stature, combined with his expressive performances, makes him stand out both on and off the camera.
Beyond physical details, his style reflects creativity—often blending casual, playful fashion with artistic flair. Fans admire not just his work, but also the way he carries himself as authentic, approachable, and thoughtful.
Clearing the Rumors: Is William Gao Married to Kit Connor?
One of the most frequently searched phrases about the actor is “is william gao married to kit connor”. The answer is no.
Kit Connor is Gao’s close friend and co-star from Heartstopper, where their on-screen chemistry has fueled speculation. However, both actors have clarified that their bond is one of friendship and mutual respect. Gao remains private about his personal relationships, preferring to let his work speak for itself.
The Future of William Gao in Film and Music
Looking ahead, the future appears exceptionally bright for William Gao. With more projects lined up in film and ongoing musical releases with Wasia Project, he is carving out a dual career path few manage successfully.
What sets Gao apart is not just talent but his ability to connect emotionally with audiences—whether through a heartfelt performance on screen or a soulful melody in song.
As he continues to evolve, William Gao represents the next generation of artists: bold, creative, and unapologetically authentic.
Conclusion
William Gao is more than just a rising star—he is a multidimensional artist reshaping how we think about acting, music, and representation. From his breakthrough in Heartstopper to his passion-driven music career, he proves that artistry is about honesty and connection.
With his height, talent, and vision, William Gao has established himself as a figure to watch, admired by fans worldwide. And as the rumors and questions swirl, what remains clear is this: his journey has only just begun, and the best is yet to come.
