Budding star Jayd Johnson is happy to learn on the job

Dropping out of drama school hasn’t stopped Jayd Johnson from carving out a career in acting.

Jayd Johnson quit drama school when she was offered the meaty role of Paddy Meehan in the BBC’s Field of Blood. And the 23-year-old has no regrets insisting she learns on the job every day.

The Rutherglen actress has worked with experienced stars like David Morrissey, Peter Capaldi and David Hayman in the series about a young, investigative journalist.

Her latest role sees her teaming up with another big name, Elaine C Smith, in This Wide Night at Glasgow’s Tron Theatre.

“I had met Elaine a few times, but this is my first time working with her. She’s been really helpful,” Jayd said. “It’s about two women who were cellmates in prison.

“One has just been released and goes to visit her old cellmate, who got out earlier. It explores the awkward dynamic as they realise things are not the same on the outside. It’s very intense.”

Jayd, who was in River City for six years, continued: “My first theatre work was at the Tron in 2009, and then I went to drama school in New York.

“I soaked up so much in that first year and it’s helped me so much, along with what I have already done.

“I feel if I ever wanted to do some classes now, it would be something more spontaneous, rather than a full course, because I’m learning on the job every day.”

Jayd left New York to take the role of Paddy Meehan in the ’80s-set Field of Blood, which is adapted from a three-book trilogy by Denise Mina.

“The intention has always been to do the third part of the series. There’s two years between each of the books and the BBC wants to do it in real time, so we’ll maybe start working on it at the end of the year or early next year.

“I love researching the 1980s and looking at the fashion, music and politics of the time.”

This Wide Night is at the Tron Theatre from February 20 to March 15.