Josh O’Connor Learned He’s Allergic to Hay on Set of “The Mastermind”: ‘Nearly Had an Asthma Attack’ (Exclusive)

Josh O’Connor, the talented British actor, recently made a surprising discovery while on set – he has a severe allergy to hay. This revelation came to light during the filming of two of his latest movies, where O’Connor had to contend with not just hay but also allergies to horses, cats, and some dogs. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, O’Connor shared the challenges he faced due to his allergies and how it nearly led to an asthma attack.

Known for his roles in films like “God’s Own Country” and “Emma,” O’Connor detailed his experience while working on the set of Kelly Reichardt’s movie, “The Mastermind.” He portrayed a character who hides stolen goods in a hay barn, unknowingly triggering his hay allergy. Despite his love for animals, including horses and cats, O’Connor found himself struggling with his allergies, especially during physically demanding scenes involving hay.

Recounting the incident, O’Connor humorously shared how he had never realized he was allergic to hay until that moment on set. The actor’s professionalism shone through as he persevered through the challenges, even having to take multiple doses of antihistamines to manage his symptoms. The filming team had to limit the number of takes due to O’Connor’s health concerns, highlighting the importance of his well-being on set.

As he navigated through his allergies, O’Connor remained committed to his craft, juggling multiple projects simultaneously. Alongside “The Mastermind,” he also starred in “Rebuilding” and “The History of Sound,” showcasing his versatility as an actor. With upcoming projects like “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery,” O’Connor continues to impress audiences with his talent and dedication to his work.

Despite his busy schedule, O’Connor maintained a sense of humour about his health challenges, joking that he might have overextended himself and caught a cold. Whether it was a cold or another allergic reaction remains to be seen, but O’Connor’s positive attitude and determination are evident in the face of adversity. His willingness to push through difficulties on set reflects his professionalism and passion for his craft.

As “The Mastermind” garnered attention for its stellar cast and intriguing storyline, O’Connor’s performance stood out despite the challenges he faced. Supported by a talented ensemble that included Alana Haim, Hope Davis, and John Magaro, O’Connor’s portrayal added depth to the film. His ability to immerse himself in his characters, despite his allergy struggles, showcases his dedication to delivering authentic performances.

In conclusion, Josh O’Connor’s journey on set, discovering his hay allergy, serves as a testament to his resilience and commitment to his craft. Despite facing unexpected health challenges, the actor remains focused on delivering captivating performances that resonate with audiences. As he continues to take on diverse roles and projects, O’Connor’s talent and professionalism shine through, making him a standout in the entertainment industry.