While GCSE season sparks excitement and nerves across England, Scarlett Thomas, daughter of TV stars Ryan Thomas and Tina O’Brien, shared a personal revelation on TikTok this week.
At just 16, Scarlett revealed that she did not sit her GCSE exams—a milestone many teenagers see as pivotal.
Reflecting on the moment, Scarlett admitted, “Watching everyone get their GCSE results today wondering if I could’ve had good results but I will forever wonder.”
She added a heartfelt nod to her peers, writing with two red heart emojis, “Well done everyone, you all should be beyond proud whatever results you got.”
Following in Famous Footsteps
Despite her young age, Scarlett is already carving her path in the entertainment world, with ambitions in both acting and singing.
Her first acting role came in 2023 on the hit show Waterloo Road, following in the footsteps of her uncle Adam Thomas, 37, who became a household name through the same series.
While most young people in England sit GCSEs, they are not legally required under the Education Act of 1996.
Students can pursue alternative qualifications or leave formal education at 16—a path Scarlett has chosen to focus on her burgeoning career.
Fan Reactions: Support and Surprise
The news that Scarlett skipped her exams surprised many fans, sparking questions online.
Some were curious about her choice, while others emphasized that exams do not define a person’s potential or success.
Fans wrote messages of encouragement, such as:
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“Two years on since mine and they really do not define your future at all. You’ll forever wonder but God had a different plan for you xx.”
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“Proud of you anyways, no matter what. You are so talented and doing amazing things already—you’re going to go so far!!”
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“It’s okay Scarlett, we’re all still proud of you. Grades don’t define you as a person xx.”
Defending Early Career Moves
Scarlett has also faced criticism for pursuing acting opportunities at such a young age.
She fired back at detractors, stating: “You only got those opportunities because of your family. God forbid a girl takes the chances she gets.”
Her mother Tina, best known for playing Sarah Platt on Coronation Street, expressed pride on Instagram during Scarlett’s acting debut:
“So proud of @scarlettjthomas26. She’s worked so hard on Waterloo Road, and I’ve absolutely loved watching her portrayal of Izzy.
Wonderful to see her talent recognized by @tvtimesmagazine as she’s been nominated for an award.”
A Rising Star in the Making
Industry insiders predict Scarlett could earn at least £2 million before turning 18.
She has already built a strong social media presence, with over 165k followers on TikTok and 138k on Instagram.
Both accounts launched when she turned 16, and she frequently appears on her parents’ platforms as well as the broader Thomas family social accounts.
The family, including famous uncles Adam and Scott Thomas, and Ryan’s former TOWIE fiancée Lucy Mecklenburgh, has mastered using social media to showcase their talents. PR expert Lynn Carratt told The Sun:
“It’s clear they’re a close-knit family who understand how to use social media effectively to build their careers.
They capitalize on TikTok trends, and each member is talented in their own right.”
Carratt added that the Thomas family’s videos are not just entertaining—they’re a strategic way to display their talents to millions, creating opportunities beyond traditional TV appearances.
She noted that Scarlett and her cousin Teddy are likely to follow in their parents’ footsteps, with Scarlett possibly even joining a girl band in the future.
Family Support and Future Plans
Despite past tensions between Ryan and Tina, sources reveal that both parents are fully supportive of Scarlett’s career.
The family reportedly spends hours planning her next steps, demonstrating a united front as she rises in the entertainment world.
With talent, confidence, and a close-knit family behind her, Scarlett Thomas is shaping up to be a major star—both on-screen and online.
