Olivia Cooke was born and raised in Oldham, a former textile manufacturing town located in the Greater Manchester region of North West England. This charming town, which was once a hub for textile production, served as the perfect backdrop for Cooke's early life and upbringing. Born into a family of non-actors, Cooke's parents, John and her mother, a sales representative, instilled in her a strong sense of values and support, which would later contribute to her success in the entertainment industry.
Cooke's educational journey began at Royton and Crompton Secondary School, where she developed a passion for drama. She further honed her craft at Oldham Sixth Form College, studying drama and leaving before completing her A-levels to pursue her acting dreams. Cooke's early fascination with the performing arts began at a tender age, as she practiced ballet and gymnastics. Her love for acting was ignited when she was just 8 years old, participating in an after-school drama programme at the Oldham Theatre Workshop.
For several years, Cooke performed as part of the ensemble, gradually building her confidence and skills. However, it wasn't until she was 17 years old that she landed a leading role, starring as Maria in Oldham Sixth Form College's production of West Side Story. This pivotal moment marked a significant turning point in Cooke's career, as she began to take on more prominent roles. Soon after, she secured her first and last leading role for the Oldham Theatre, in Prom: The Musical, a remake of Cinderella.
