From Grishaverse Hero To Sci-Fi Survivor: 5 Reasons Archie Renaux Is Hollywood's Next Leading Man

Archie Renaux is rapidly transitioning from a fan-favorite Netflix star to a major player in Hollywood, with a slate of high-profile projects cementing his status as one of the most exciting young actors to watch. As of December 2025, the English actor is riding the wave of his recent success in the romantic comedy *Upgraded* and preparing for the massive sci-fi horror release of *Alien: Romulus*, demonstrating incredible versatility across genres.

The journey of Archie Renaux, whose real name is Archie James Beale, has captivated audiences globally, particularly through his portrayal of the loyal tracker Malyen Oretsev (Mal) in the beloved fantasy series *Shadow and Bone*. While the news of the show's cancellation disappointed the Grishaverse fandom, Renaux's career has only accelerated, with his upcoming roles proving he is ready to headline films alongside the industry’s biggest names.

Archie Renaux: Complete Actor Profile & Filmography

Archie Renaux, a former model, has built a compelling career defined by diverse roles across television and film. Born in England, his breakthrough role as Mal in the Netflix adaptation of Leigh Bardugo's novels launched him onto the international stage. His early career saw him hone his craft in various short films before landing significant supporting roles in major studio productions.

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• Full Name: Archie James Beale
• Known As: Archie Renaux
• Date of Birth: 22 November 1997
• Place of Birth: Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, England, UK
• Nationality: British
• Occupation: Actor, Model
• Notable Roles: Malyen Oretsev (*Shadow and Bone*), Tyler Harrison (*Alien: Romulus*), Will (*Upgraded*)
• Partner: In a committed relationship (private)
• Education: Studied performing arts in London.

Selected Filmography & Television Roles

Renaux’s filmography showcases his ability to move seamlessly between major studio blockbusters, indie dramas, and streaming hits, establishing him as a versatile talent.

• *Alien: Romulus* (2024) as Tyler Harrison
• *Upgraded* (2024) as Will
• *The Other Zoey* (2023) as Miles MacLaren
• *The Greatest Beer Run Ever* (2022) as Bobby Pappas
• *Catherine Called Birdy* (2022) as Edward the Monk
• *Morbius* (2022) as Bobby
• *Voyagers* (2021) as Alex
• *Shadow and Bone* (TV Series, 2021–2023) as Malyen "Mal" Oretsev
• *Gold Digger* (TV Mini-Series, 2019) as Leo Day
• *The Jetty* (TV Series, Upcoming)
• *Falling* (Film, Upcoming)

The Shift from Grishaverse Heartthrob to Sci-Fi Horror Lead

For many fans, Archie Renaux will forever be associated with Mal Oretsev, the best friend and love interest of Alina Starkov (Jessie Mei Li) in the *Shadow and Bone* series. His performance was central to the show's emotional core, navigating the complex world of the Grishaverse and the intense pressure of being the Sun Summoner's anchor.

The news that Netflix opted not to renew *Shadow and Bone* for a third season was a major blow to the community. However, this cancellation has ironically freed Renaux to fully embrace his film career, leading to his most significant and unexpected role yet: Tyler Harrison in Fede Álvarez's *Alien: Romulus*.

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This role is a dramatic departure from the fantasy romance of the Grishaverse. In *Alien: Romulus*, Renaux is part of a young cast, including Isabela Merced, who must face off against the terrifying Xenomorph. The film is set to be a fresh, visceral take on the iconic sci-fi horror franchise, and Renaux's involvement signals his serious ambition to take on demanding, high-stakes roles that showcase his range beyond the romantic hero archetype.

The project, which is scheduled for a major 2024 release and is generating significant buzz, places Renaux squarely in the spotlight of a global cinematic event. This move proves he is not afraid to step into a legendary franchise and take on the legacy of Ridley Scott’s original vision.

Upcoming Projects: Romantic Comedies, Dramas, and Thrillers

Renaux’s career strategy appears to be one of calculated variety, ensuring he is not typecast. While *Alien: Romulus* satisfies the blockbuster sci-fi column, his other current and upcoming projects lean heavily into the romantic and dramatic genres, showcasing his undeniable on-screen chemistry with his co-stars.

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The Success of *Upgraded* and *The Other Zoey*

In early 2024, Renaux starred as Will in the romantic comedy *Upgraded*, opposite Camila Mendes. The film was a streaming success, with critics and audiences praising the spectacular chemistry between the two leads. His portrayal of the charming, wealthy British gentleman Will proved his capability to carry a modern rom-com.

Similarly, his role as Miles MacLaren in the 2023 film *The Other Zoey*, where he starred alongside Josephine Langford and Drew Starkey, further solidified his status as a leading man in the romantic drama space. These films tap into a massive audience base, providing a perfect counterpoint to the intensity of his sci-fi work.

The Highly Anticipated *Falling* and *The Jetty*

Looking ahead, Renaux has two major projects that will continue to define his career trajectory. The romantic dramedy *Falling*, co-starring KJ Apa, Isabel May, and Emma Laird, is set to further explore complex romantic film tropes. This ensemble cast, featuring other rising stars, is highly anticipated, especially among young adult audiences.

On the television front, Renaux is slated to star in the BBC One miniseries *The Jetty*, a thriller that will allow him to delve into a more serious, suspenseful narrative. Moving into British television drama after his global Netflix success is a smart move that demonstrates a commitment to quality, character-driven work. The combination of a major sci-fi franchise, successful rom-coms, and a British thriller shows a diverse and expertly managed career path.

The Future of Archie Renaux: Why He is a Global Entity

Archie Renaux is one of the few young actors today who can successfully navigate the worlds of high-budget fantasy, gritty sci-fi horror, and lighthearted romantic comedy. This versatility is his greatest asset and the key to his topical authority in the industry. His ability to connect with diverse fanbases—from the dedicated Grishaverse followers to the lifelong *Alien* enthusiasts and the rom-com devotees—makes him a truly global entity.

His recent appearance at the GQ Men Of The Year Awards in November 2025 further highlights his increasing visibility and influence in the fashion and celebrity world. With major roles in *Alien: Romulus* and the upcoming release of *The Jetty* and *Falling*, Renaux is not just a rising star; he is a fully realized leading man whose career is set to dominate the screens for years to come. Fans are eager to see how he tackles the psychological demands of the horror genre and continues to challenge expectations with his varied and compelling choices.