Fay Masterson

Fay Masterson (born 15 April 1974) is a British actress whose career spans more than three decades, beginning as a dancer before transitioning to the screen at the tender age of eleven. She first captured public attention when director Ken Annakin, impressed by her audition for Pippi Longstocking, created the role of the Head Girl specifically for her in The New Adventures of Pippi Longstocking (1988), launching a prolific trajectory that would see her appear in over twenty‑five films and more than thirty‑five television productions. Masterson’s early work showcased not only her acting chops but also her versatility, as she seamlessly moved from child‑friendly fantasy to more mature narratives, appearing in The Power of One (1992) and The Man Without a Face (1993). Her ability to convey emotional depth at such a young age earned her praise from critics and opened doors to more substantial roles. Throughout the 1990s she became a familiar face on British television, delivering memorable guest spots on series such as Casualty, Jupiter Moon and The Ruth Rendell Mysteries.

In the new millennium, Masterson expanded her repertoire to international projects, most notably portraying LCDR Andrea Garnett, the ship’s chief engineer, on TNT’s critically acclaimed series The Last Ship. She also entered the world of blockbuster romance as Gail Jones in both Fifty Shades Darker and Fifty Shades Freed, further cementing her status as a versatile performer. The role required extensive technical dialogue, showcasing her skill in portraying strong, authoritative characters. In addition to on‑screen roles, she has contributed voice work to several video games, demonstrating a breadth of talent across media. Her participation in voice acting has also allowed her to reach a global gaming audience, adding a modern dimension to her portfolio. Today, Masterton continues to act, embodying characters that reflect her enduring commitment to the craft, while remaining a respected figure within the film and television community. Despite her extensive résumé, Masterson remains grounded, often speaking about the importance of perseverance in the entertainment industry. Fans continue to celebrate her diverse body of work, eagerly anticipating her next on‑screen appearance.