Navigating Toxic Masculinity: Samson Hawkins’ “Top Gs Like Me” at Royal & Derngate
Northampton’s Royal & Derngate is currently hosting a provocative new function, “Top Gs Like Me,” a dark comedy by emerging playwright Samson Hawkins that fearlessly tackles the complex and often damaging world of online influencer culture and its impact on young men. The play, which opened to critical attention on February 26th, 2026, doesn’t shy away from difficult themes – class, male mental health, teen anxiety, and the troubling issue of sexual assault – all woven together with a darkly humorous lens. It’s a production that arrives at a moment of heightened awareness regarding the pervasive influence of figures like Andrew Tate and the echo chambers they create online, prompting audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about modern masculinity.
The play centers on Aidan, an 18-year-classic struggling to find his place in the world. He’s stuck in low-paying jobs, feeling increasingly powerless as his friend Mia prepares to leave for university and enters a relationship with a more privileged peer. Into this landscape of frustration and uncertainty enters Hugo Bang, a character explicitly modeled after the controversial online personality Andrew Tate. Portrayed with chilling charisma by Danny Hatchard (known for his role in the long-running BBC soap opera EastEnders), Hugo Bang represents the seductive allure of a hyper-masculine, misogynistic ideology. The play doesn’t simply present this figure as a villain; it explores the vulnerabilities and societal factors that make his message resonate with young men like Aidan.
A Visually Striking and Atmospheric Production
The production itself is a significant achievement, particularly in its design. Rebecca Brower’s set transforms the Royal & Derngate auditorium into a life-size skate park, immediately immersing the audience in Aidan’s world. As noted by critics, Here’s more than just a backdrop; it’s a tremendously atmospheric space that enhances the play’s energy and immediacy. The direction, by Jesse Jones, is described as exuberant, utilizing TikTok-style videos projected onto the stage to represent the constant stream of information and influence that bombards Aidan. These rapidly changing visuals, incorporating everything from wrestling matches to wellness gurus and even a rapping rendition of Queen Elizabeth II, create a hallucinatory effect, amplified by Rory Beaton’s lighting design and Benjamin Grant’s soundscape. The play effectively captures the fragmented and overwhelming nature of the online experience.
Echoes of “Adolescence” and a Call for New Writing
Critics have drawn comparisons to Jack Thorne’s critically acclaimed 2023 television series, Adolescence, which also explored the themes of toxic masculinity and online radicalization. However, “Top Gs Like Me” distinguishes itself through its utilize of dark humor and its focus on the specific context of working-class life in Northampton. While the play touches upon sensitive subjects like sexual assault, it does so with a nuanced approach, avoiding sensationalism. The script, while occasionally clunky and prone to delivering moral lessons directly to the audience, is ultimately praised for its bold ideas and the spirited performances of its cast. Some characters, like Charlie, are noted as being somewhat underdeveloped, leaning into stereotypical tropes, and the portrayal of the local alcoholic, Dave, is described as rough around the edges.
The production’s commitment to nurturing new talent is also noteworthy. Featuring a chorus of 25 acting students from the University of Northampton, “Top Gs Like Me” reflects a broader conversation within the British theatre scene about the need for more risk-taking and investment in emerging playwrights. This point was recently underscored by Indhu Rubasingham, the director of the National Theatre, who spoke out against risk-averse theatre-making in a recent public lecture, warning of its potential to stifle creativity and innovation. Hawkins’ play, with its willingness to confront difficult issues and its embrace of fresh voices, stands as a counterpoint to this trend.
The Allure of the “Top G” Persona and its Real-World Consequences
The character of Hugo Bang is central to the play’s exploration of online radicalization. He embodies the “Top G” persona popularized by Andrew Tate – a figure who promotes a hyper-masculine lifestyle, often laced with misogynistic and anti-feminist rhetoric. The play doesn’t simply condemn this ideology; it attempts to understand its appeal, particularly to young men who feel disenfranchised and lacking in agency. As Aidan becomes increasingly drawn into Hugo Bang’s orbit, the play raises questions about the power of social media algorithms, the vulnerability of young minds, and the societal factors that contribute to the spread of harmful ideologies. The play highlights how easily individuals can fall prey to online scams and manipulative influencers who prioritize profit and admiration over the well-being of their followers.
The play’s relevance extends beyond the realm of entertainment. The rise of Andrew Tate and similar figures has sparked widespread concern among educators, parents, and policymakers. Reports have emerged of young men adopting Tate’s rhetoric and engaging in harmful behaviors, prompting calls for greater awareness and intervention. While “Top Gs Like Me” doesn’t offer easy answers, it provides a valuable platform for dialogue and critical reflection on these complex issues. The play’s exploration of class dynamics is also particularly poignant, suggesting that economic insecurity and social marginalization can make young men more susceptible to extremist ideologies.
“Top Gs Like Me” is running at the Royal & Derngate in Northampton until March 7th, 2026. It’s a challenging, thought-provoking, and ultimately important piece of theatre that deserves a wide audience. The production serves as a stark reminder of the power of online influence and the urgent need to address the underlying issues that make young men vulnerable to harmful ideologies. It’s a play that stays with you long after the curtain falls, prompting reflection on the complexities of masculinity, the dangers of online radicalization, and the importance of fostering critical thinking skills in the digital age.
The play’s success also underscores the importance of supporting emerging playwrights like Samson Hawkins, who are willing to tackle difficult subjects with honesty and nuance. As the theatre industry continues to evolve, it’s crucial to create opportunities for new voices to be heard and to challenge conventional norms. “Top Gs Like Me” is a testament to the power of theatre to provoke, inspire, and to make a difference.
Key Takeaways:
- “Top Gs Like Me” explores the impact of Andrew Tate-style influencers on young men.
- The play tackles themes of class, mental health, anxiety, and sexual assault.
- The production features a striking set design and energetic direction.
- It highlights the need for new writing and the nurturing of emerging talent in theatre.
As “Top Gs Like Me” continues its run at the Royal & Derngate, audiences are encouraged to engage with the play’s challenging themes and to consider the broader implications of online influencer culture. The production offers a timely and important contribution to the ongoing conversation about masculinity, mental health, and the digital age. What are your thoughts on the play’s themes? Share your comments below and join the discussion.