adminSophia Alison M. “Phia” Boreham Saban, commonly known as Phia Saban, is a talented English actress whose career is already making significant waves in the television industry. Born on September 19, 1998, Phia has gained recognition for her powerful performances in some of the most anticipated television shows of recent years, including the Netflix medieval drama The Last Kingdom (2022) and the HBO fantasy series House of the Dragon (2022–). Here, we explore her journey into acting, her notable roles, and what makes her one of the most exciting young talents in the entertainment industry today.
Early Life and Education
Phia Saban was born in Hackney, East London, to parents Mark Saban and Penelope “Penny” Boreham. The family relocated to Oxford when Phia was around five or six years old, and it was there that she and her younger brother, Gabriel, attended d’Overbroeck’s College.
Phia’s passion for acting was evident from a young age, and her early years in Oxford helped shape her ambition to pursue a career in the arts. She later went on to study at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, where she honed her acting skills. Phia graduated in 2020, marking the start of her professional acting career.
Phia Saban’s Acting Career: From Debut to Stardom
Phia Saban’s breakthrough in television came in 2022, when she joined the main cast of the Netflix series The Last Kingdom. Based on the popular novel series by Bernard Cornwell, The Last Kingdom is set in the Viking Age and follows the historical conflict between Saxons and Danes in the British Isles. Phia played the role of Ælfwynn, a key character introduced in the fifth and final season of the show. Her performance was well-received by both critics and audiences, marking her as a rising star in the industry.
Although Ælfwynn was not included in the 2023 film The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die, which concluded the series, Phia’s performance in the show solidified her place in the hearts of fans. The decision to exclude her character was made due to the film’s condensed running time and a more streamlined narrative. Martha Hillier, the film’s screenwriter, explained that the decision was “heartbreaking” but necessary, as the film focused more on a single protagonist story.
House of the Dragon: The Role That Propelled Her to International Fame
Later in 2022, Phia Saban’s career reached a new height when she was cast in the HBO fantasy series House of the Dragon, a prequel to the globally renowned series Game of Thrones. House of the Dragon is based on George R. R. Martin’s book Fire & Blood, which chronicles the history of the Targaryen family, one of the most powerful and controversial families in the fictional world of Westeros.
Phia Saban plays Helaena Targaryen, a princess who later becomes Queen Helaena, a central character in the show. Her portrayal of Helaena, the enigmatic and tragic member of the Targaryen family, received widespread praise. Phia’s ability to bring depth and vulnerability to the character helped establish her as a standout performer in a show filled with seasoned actors.
One of Phia’s notable accolades came from her fellow cast member Olivia Cooke, who praised her performance, acknowledging her skill in portraying Helaena with both grace and intensity. This recognition not only elevated Phia’s profile but also cemented her as one of the key talents in the House of the Dragon cast.
Her role as Helaena Targaryen has made Phia Saban an international star, with the show being watched by millions worldwide. Her portrayal of a young, politically entangled royal has sparked the interest of fans and critics alike, and she has since been confirmed to return for season two of House of the Dragon, further ensuring her place as one of the most exciting young actresses on television.
Phia Saban’s Notable Works
Television:
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Christabel | Bella | BBC Radio 3 Drama |
| 2022 | The Last Kingdom | Ælfwynn | Main Role (Season 5), 10 Episodes |
| 2022–Present | House of the Dragon | Helaena Targaryen | Main Role |
Phia’s versatility as an actress is showcased in her ability to tackle both historical drama in The Last Kingdom and fantasy epic in House of the Dragon. These diverse roles demonstrate her range and potential in the television industry, and her performances are poised to lead to even bigger opportunities in the future.
Phia Saban’s Style and Approach to Acting
Phia Saban’s acting is characterized by its depth and emotional resonance. Whether portraying the noble but troubled Ælfwynn in The Last Kingdom or the tragic, complex Helaena Targaryen in House of the Dragon, Phia brings a level of emotional subtlety that resonates deeply with viewers.
Her ability to convey the internal struggles of her characters, while remaining grounded in the historical or fantastical world around them, sets her apart from her peers. Helaena Targaryen, for example, is a character embroiled in political intrigue, family drama, and personal tragedy. Phia’s portrayal of Helaena’s inner conflict — from the pressures of the Targaryen legacy to her fraught relationship with her family — has made her a standout actress in the series.
In interviews, Phia has spoken about her love for character-driven roles, where she can delve into the psychological and emotional layers of her characters. This approach has allowed her to build nuanced portrayals that stick with the audience long after the credits roll.
Phia Saban’s Future in Hollywood
With her impressive performances in two of the most highly regarded TV series of the last few years, Phia Saban is clearly on the path to even greater success. As she continues to expand her acting repertoire, fans and critics alike are eager to see what roles she takes on next. Whether in more fantasy epics, historical dramas, or contemporary works, Phia’s talent and versatility will surely keep her in high demand.
Having already secured major roles in globally recognized shows like The Last Kingdom and House of the Dragon, Phia’s future in the entertainment industry looks incredibly bright. As she continues to grow in her craft, there is no doubt that she will become one of the leading actresses of her generation.
Conclusion
Sophia Alison M. “Phia” Boreham Saban is a name that’s rapidly gaining recognition in the television industry. From her breakout role in The Last Kingdom to her commanding presence in House of the Dragon, Phia has proven herself to be an actress of remarkable talent and versatility. With her compelling performances, grounded acting style, and impressive range, Phia is poised to continue making her mark in the entertainment world for years to come.
As fans await her return in House of the Dragon season two, there is no doubt that Phia Saban will remain a rising star, whose career is one to watch closely.
