John AlexWilliam Gao is quickly becoming one of the most recognized faces in the British entertainment industry. Known for his compelling performance in Netflix’s acclaimed teen drama Heartstopper, Gao is not only celebrated for his acting talent but also for his musical prowess, fashion-forward presence, and growing influence among Gen Z audiences. With a unique blend of emotional depth and expressive talent, Gao is redefining what it means to be a young actor in a fast-evolving media landscape.
Born and raised in the United Kingdom to a multicultural family, William’s journey into the world of performance is deeply rooted in both classical music training and a genuine passion for storytelling. As of 2025, he is still in the early stages of what promises to be a long and illustrious career, with critics and fans alike closely watching his next moves.
William Gao Quick Bio
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | William Gao |
| Date of Birth | February 20, 2003 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 22 years old |
| Place of Birth | Croydon, South London, United Kingdom |
| Nationality | British |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (Chinese and British) |
| Height | 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm) |
| Profession | Actor, Musician |
| Famous For | Role of Tao Xu in Netflix’s Heartstopper |
| Parents | – Father: Name not publicly disclosed |
| – Mother: Liping Hardy (Classical Pianist) | |
| Siblings | Olivia Hardy (sister, musical collaborator) |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Children | None |
| Musical Group | Wasia Project (with Olivia Hardy) |
| Active Years | 2022 – Present |
| Known Languages | English |
| Social Media | Instagram (Exact handle TBD) |
Early Life and Background
William Gao was born on February 20, 2003, in Croydon, South London. He is of mixed heritage, with a Chinese mother and British father. His mother, a trained classical pianist, played a pivotal role in cultivating his artistic sensibilities from a young age.
Gao grew up in a musically rich household, where creativity was not only encouraged but integrated into daily life. He attended Trinity School in Croydon, known for its academic rigor and robust arts programs. During his school years, he was involved in various drama and music performances, laying the foundation for his future in the performing arts.
Parents of William Gao: A Foundation of Creativity and Support
William Gao was born into a family that nurtured and valued artistic expression. Both of his parents have played significant roles in shaping his creative journey from a young age.
- Father: Mr. Gao (Name Not Publicly Disclosed)
William Gao’s father is British and is believed to work in a professional, possibly academic or corporate field. Though his name and occupation have not been widely publicized, it’s known that he has supported William and his sister in their artistic pursuits. His presence, while more private, has been part of the stable environment that helped William pursue a dual path in music and acting. - Mother: Liping Hardy
William’s mother, Liping Hardy, is a Chinese-born classical pianist. She played a significant role in developing William’s love for music, enrolling him in classical music training from a young age. Her influence is evident in William’s skill with the piano and viola, and her deep appreciation for the arts is something she clearly passed on to both her children. Liping has also been supportive of William’s acting career, often attending events and supporting his milestones in quiet but meaningful ways.
Academic Pursuits and Musical Training
Before fully stepping into the acting spotlight, William Gao honed his skills as a classically trained musician. He studied at the Royal Academy of Music, focusing on piano and viola. His classical training reflects in the poise and emotional nuance he brings to his acting roles.
Outside of institutional training, William is also part of a musical duo called Wasia Project, which he formed with his younger sister, Olivia Hardy. Their sound blends indie-pop with jazz and classical elements, further showcasing Gao’s diverse range of talents.
Breakthrough Role in Netflix’s Heartstopper
William’s acting career took a transformative turn in 2022 when he was cast as Tao Xu in Netflix’s adaptation of Alice Oseman’s popular webcomic and novel Heartstopper. The show, which explores LGBTQ+ themes through the lens of young love and friendship, became a cultural touchstone almost overnight.
As Tao, Gao plays the fiercely loyal and outspoken best friend of Charlie Spring, one of the show’s protagonists. His portrayal earned widespread praise for its authenticity, emotional depth, and comedic timing. His ability to balance vulnerability with strength made Tao a fan favorite and solidified William Gao as one of the breakout stars of the series.
Career Growth and Expanding Roles
Since his success in Heartstopper, William Gao has expressed interest in taking on more diverse and challenging roles. He is not only committed to acting but also seeks to merge his artistic passions, hinting at future projects that might blend his love for film and music.
Although Gao has not yet taken on a large number of film roles, industry insiders suggest he is in high demand for both British and international projects. His careful selection of roles so far speaks to a long-term vision focused on quality and impact rather than quick fame.
Personal Life and Public Persona
Despite his rising fame, William Gao remains relatively private about his personal life. He maintains a modest online presence and is known for his introspective and artistic demeanor. Gao often uses his platform to advocate for diversity in the arts, mental health awareness, and authentic storytelling.
He is also recognized for his fashion choices, frequently praised for his bold yet tasteful style. His appearances at film premieres, award shows, and fashion events have made him a rising icon in the fashion community as well.
Musical Ventures with Wasia Project
Formed in 2019, the Wasia Project is a musical collaboration between William Gao and his sister Olivia. The duo has released several singles and performed live at small venues across the UK. Their songs often touch on themes of identity, adolescence, and emotional introspection.
Their sound is often described as cinematic and genre-bending, drawing comparisons to artists like Rex Orange County and Billie Eilish. Gao’s contributions as a vocalist and instrumentalist reveal a deep musical intuition that complements his acting talent.
Social Media Presence and Fan Engagement
While William is not overly active on social media, his followers across platforms like Instagram and Twitter number in the hundreds of thousands. His interactions are usually subtle and thoughtful, focusing on artistic updates, occasional behind-the-scenes content, and causes he supports.
Gao’s social media persona reflects his real-life temperament: quiet, intelligent, and grounded. This authenticity has helped him cultivate a dedicated and respectful fanbase.
Cultural Impact and Representation
In a time where diversity and inclusion are becoming more central to media narratives, William Gao stands out as a symbol of change. As an actor of mixed Asian heritage playing a key role in a queer-centric show, he brings much-needed representation to mainstream platforms.
His work in Heartstopper and beyond challenges conventional casting norms and encourages more open-minded storytelling. By choosing roles that reflect real, diverse experiences, Gao is helping reshape the entertainment industry for future generations.
Awards and Nominations
Although still early in his career, William Gao has already earned nominations and critical acclaim. Heartstopper itself won numerous accolades, including a Children and Family Emmy Award, and cast members, including Gao, received widespread praise for their performances.
While individual awards are still forthcoming, many expect Gao to be a strong contender in future BAFTA Rising Star or similar categories as his career matures.
The Future of William Gao in Film and Television
William Gao’s career trajectory suggests he is poised for even greater success. With his combination of acting talent, musical versatility, and thoughtful public image, Gao is well-equipped to take on leading roles in both independent cinema and mainstream productions.
His interest in creative collaboration also hints at potential directorial or production roles in the future. Whatever his next steps may be, the industry and his fans are eager to see what comes next.
Rising Popularity Beyond the UK
While Gao is a distinctly British actor, his appeal has grown internationally, particularly in the United States, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. The global reach of Netflix has amplified his visibility, making him a cultural ambassador of sorts for British youth media.
Fan communities around the world have celebrated Gao’s performances, often creating fan art, tribute videos, and social media pages dedicated to his work. His grounded and global perspective makes him a unique voice in the increasingly international world of entertainment.
Rwilliam Gao Height: A Frequently Asked Question
Among the many things fans are curious about, one of the most frequently searched queries is “Rwilliam Gao height.” Though the spelling “Rwilliam” is a common typo, the intention is clear: people want to know more about his physical presence.
William Gao stands at approximately 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm), making him notably tall compared to many of his co-stars in Heartstopper. His height contributes to his on-screen presence, lending him a natural gravitas in both dramatic and casual scenes.
This stature, combined with his lean build and expressive features, has also made him a favorite among fashion designers and modeling agencies.
William Gao Movies and TV Shows: A Growing Portfolio
As of 2025, William Gao is primarily known for his work in Heartstopper, but his filmography is expected to expand significantly in the coming years.
Current Works:
- Heartstopper (2022–present): Tao Xu
- Wasia Project (2019–present): Musical performances and music videos
Upcoming Projects (Rumored/Unconfirmed):
- An untitled British indie film currently in pre-production
- Possible appearance in a BBC drama series focused on mental health in adolescence
While his screen appearances are still limited, each performance has been marked by nuanced character work and critical acclaim, signaling a bright future in both television and cinema.
Is Kit Connor Married to William Gao? Setting the Record Straight
One of the most persistent rumors circulating online is the question: “Is Kit Connor married to William Gao?” This speculation stems largely from their on-screen chemistry and close off-screen friendship.
To clarify, William Gao and Kit Connor are not married. They are co-stars and friends, often seen supporting each other in interviews and public appearances. While fans enjoy their dynamic, there is no romantic relationship between the two.
Both actors have chosen to keep much of their personal lives private, and any speculation should be approached with respect for their boundaries.
William Gao Heartstopper: A Role That Changed Everything
William Gao’s role in Heartstopper is undoubtedly the turning point of his career. The show not only introduced him to a global audience but also allowed him to explore deep emotional themes like friendship, identity, and loss.
Tao Xu’s storyline—dealing with grief over a lost parent, fear of change, and intense loyalty—resonated with many viewers. Gao’s portrayal elevated the character from sidekick to standout, showcasing his impressive range as an actor.
The show continues to be renewed and celebrated, and with each new season, William’s role only becomes more significant.
Conclusion: A Star Worth Watching
In a relatively short time, William Gao has become one of the most promising young talents in the UK. His unique blend of musical artistry, acting skill, and emotional intelligence makes him a rare figure in modern entertainment.
As he continues to evolve, Gao is likely to take on more complex roles and broader creative projects. For fans and industry professionals alike, he represents the future of inclusive, thoughtful storytelling in both film and television.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is William Gao?
William Gao is a British actor, musician, and rising public figure, best known for his role as Tao Xu in the Netflix series Heartstopper. He is also part of the musical duo Wasia Project with his sister Olivia Hardy. Known for his multi-disciplinary talent and thoughtful performances, Gao has quickly gained popularity in the entertainment industry.
What is William Gao’s age?
William Gao was born on February 20, 2003, which makes him 22 years old as of 2025.
What is William Gao’s height?
One of the most frequently searched questions is about the Rwilliam Gao height (a commonly mistyped version of the query). William Gao stands at approximately 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm) tall, making him noticeably taller than many of his Heartstopper co-stars.
Is Kit Connor married to William Gao?
No, Kit Connor is not married to William Gao. While the two actors share a close friendship and strong on-screen chemistry in Heartstopper, they are not in a romantic relationship. This rumor is based on fan speculation and has been debunked multiple times.
What role does William Gao play in Heartstopper?
In Heartstopper, William Gao plays the character Tao Xu, a loyal, intelligent, and sometimes hot-headed friend of Charlie Spring. His performance has been widely praised for its emotional range and authenticity.
Is William Gao in a relationship?
As of 2025, William Gao has not publicly confirmed any romantic relationships. He maintains a relatively private personal life and has not disclosed any details about a current partner.
What are some movies and TV shows featuring William Gao?
While his acting portfolio is still growing, the most notable credit in the list of William Gao movies and TV shows is Heartstopper (2022–present). He has also appeared in several short-form media projects and music videos related to the Wasia Project.
What is the Wasia Project?
The Wasia Project is a musical duo consisting of William Gao and his sister Olivia Hardy. The group blends indie-pop, jazz, and classical influences and has released several singles. It is one of William’s primary creative outlets outside of acting.
Where is William Gao from?
William Gao was born and raised in Croydon, South London, United Kingdom. He is of mixed British and Chinese heritage.
Does William Gao have siblings?
Yes, William Gao has a sister named Olivia Hardy, who is also his musical partner in the Wasia Project. The two share a strong artistic bond and have been creating music together since 2019.
Who are William Gao’s parents?
- Father: William’s father is British, though his name has not been publicly disclosed.
- Mother: His mother, Liping Hardy, is a classically trained pianist originally from China. She played a major role in developing his musical talents.
Is William Gao married?
No, William Gao is currently unmarried. There is no public information suggesting that he has a spouse or is in a long-term relationship.
Does William Gao have children?
No, William Gao does not have any children. He is currently focused on his acting and musical career.
Is William Gao active on social media?
Yes, William Gao has an active presence on platforms like Instagram, where he shares updates on his music, acting, and occasional glimpses into his personal life. However, he is known for being more private and reserved online compared to many other young celebrities.
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