Hanako Footman is an English actress and writer, born in South London to a Japanese mother and an English-Irish father. She received training at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. Footman has built a career in both television and film, appearing in productions such as the BBC sitcom 'Defending the Guilty', the Netflix drama 'The Crown', and the feature films 'An American Exorcism' and 'Guns Akimbo'. Her stage work includes a West End debut in 'Mad House' and a role in 'Not Yet Midnight' at the Royal Court Theatre.

In addition to her acting career, Footman is an author. Her debut novel, 'Mongrel', was published in 2024 and received significant recognition, including being longlisted for the Mo Siewcharran Prize and shortlisted for the Waterstones Debut Fiction Prize. It was also longlisted for the Polari Prize. Footman has a forthcoming young adult occult novel scheduled for 2027. She has been open about her reasons for withdrawing her book from the Polari Prize, citing a protest against the inclusion of John Boyne.

Hanako Footman's literary career launched with her debut novel, 'Mongrel', published in early 2024. The novel quickly garnered attention, earning a longlisting for the prestigious Mo Siewcharran Prize in 2021. Following its publication, 'Mongrel' was shortlisted for the Waterstones Debut Fiction Prize, highlighting its impact on the literary scene. Further recognition came with a longlisting for the Polari Prize in the First Book category. Footman's engagement with literary awards was marked by her decision to withdraw her book from the Polari Prize, a stance taken in protest against the inclusion of John Boyne due to his expressed anti-transgender views. This act underscored her commitment to social and ethical considerations within the literary community. A young adult occult novel by Footman is anticipated for publication in 2027.

Footman's acting career spans television, film, and stage. She made her television debut in the ITV miniseries 'The Town' and later appeared in a notable guest role as Lily in the Netflix historical drama 'The Crown'. Her role as Isabella in 'Defending the Guilty', a BBC Two sitcom, marked a significant television appearance. In film, she has featured in 'An American Exorcism', 'Slaughterhouse Rulez', 'Official Secrets', and 'Guns Akimbo'. Her stage work includes performances in 'Thyestes' and 'Modern Love', and she made her West End debut originating the character Devon in Theresa Rebeck's play 'Mad House'. She also participated in the Royal Court Theatre's 'New Plays: Japan' presentation with 'Not Yet Midnight'.