In Ken Loach’s The Old Oak, Dave Turner plays pub landlord TJ Ballantyne, Ebla Mari stars as Syrian refugee Yara, and Debbie Honeywood portrays local community worker Helen.
Main cast
- TJ BallantyneDave TurnerMain
- YaraEbla MariMain
- HelenDebbie HoneywoodMain
Supporting cast
- LauraClaire RodgersonSupp
- CharlieTrevor FoxSupp
- TommyChris GottsSupp
- MickAndy DawsonSupp
- EddyCol TaitSupp
- KevJordan Mallory-SkinnerSupp
- ReneChris McCurrySupp
- VickyJenny FouldsSupp
Guest & voice
- ArthurArthur OxleyGuest
- MiaMia MilnesGuest
- MeganMegan RourkeGuest
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About this cast
The Old Oak is a 2023 British drama film directed by Ken Loach, focusing on a declining former mining community in County Durham. The story revolves around the last remaining pub, The Old Oak, and the tensions that arise when Syrian refugees arrive in the town. The film features a largely non-professional cast, with standout performances from Dave Turner, Ebla Mari, and Debbie Honeywood.
FAQs
Who plays TJ in The Old Oak?
Dave Turner plays TJ Ballantyne, the landlord of The Old Oak pub.
Who plays Yara in The Old Oak?
Ebla Mari plays Yara, a young Syrian refugee who forms a bond with TJ.
Is The Old Oak based on a true story?
No, but it is inspired by real events and the experience of Syrian refugees resettling in post-industrial towns in the UK.
Where was The Old Oak filmed?
The film was shot on location in County Durham, primarily in the village of Murton and surrounding areas.
Who directed The Old Oak?
The film was directed by the acclaimed British filmmaker Ken Loach.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026