David McKenna is a rising Northern Irish child actor from Belfast who has captured international attention for his compelling performances on stage and screen. Best known for his breakout television debut as Piggy in the BBC adaptation of Lord of the Flies and his major role in Netflix’s fantasy film adaptation The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew, McKenna has quickly become one of his generation’s most promising young talents. Beyond his acting credits, his personal journey-including facing and overcoming severe health challenges with the support of his parents-has deeply inspired audiences worldwide.
David McKenna: Quick Facts & Personal Overview
Here is a comprehensive summary of David McKenna’s personal details, physical attributes, and professional background:
| Full Name | David McKenna |
| Date of Birth / Age | Born in 2013 (Age: Early teens) |
| Place of Birth | Belfast, Northern Ireland |
| Profession | Actor, Musical Theatre Performer |
| Height | 4 feet 6 inches (approx.) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Notable Roles | Piggy in Lord of the Flies, Digory Kirke in The Chronicles of Narnia |
| Agency | Creative Artists Agency (CAA) |
| Social Media | Instagram (@davidmckenna.actor) |
Early Life and Overcoming Major Health Challenges
David McKenna was born and raised in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Long before stepping onto major international film sets, David developed a passion for storytelling. He began his training in theatre classes at just four years old. However, his early childhood was defined by extraordinary medical hurdles.
McKenna faced severe health challenges as an infant, notably suffering from kidney failure. Demonstrating profound parental devotion, both of his parents stepped forward as donors. David received life-saving kidney transplants-first from his father and later another from his mother. McKenna has spoken openly about these medical experiences. He has reflected on how overcoming these early health obstacles shaped his resilience, growth, and determination to pursue his dreams in the performing arts.
Acting Career, Movies, and TV Shows
David McKenna’s professional acting career spans notable stage productions, high-profile television series, and major cinematic projects.
Television and Film Breakthroughs
- Lord of the Flies (2026): McKenna made his official television debut playing the iconic character Piggy in the BBC four-part television adaptation of William Golding’s classic novel. Filming took place across the United Kingdom and Malaysia, and the series premiered on BBC iPlayer in February 2026.
- The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew: In August 2025, production coverage and set photography revealed that McKenna had secured one of the young lead roles in Netflix’s highly anticipated film adaptation, cast as Digory Kirke alongside actress Beatrice Campbell.
Notable Theatre and Training Credits
Before transitioning to screen acting, McKenna honed his craft extensively through musical theatre and local performance academies. These include the Fortwilliam Musical Society and the Belfast School of Performing Arts. Some of his notable stage credits include:
- The Sound of Music – Kurt (Fortwilliam Musical Society)
- Joseph and His Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat – Joseph & Passing Goat
- We Will Rock You – Buddy (Belfast School of Performing Arts)
- Les Misérables (School Edition) – Gavroche
- Shrek JR. – Pig 1
- Legally Blonde JR. – Warner
- Chitty Chitty Bang Bang JR. – Jeremy Potts
- Sister Act JR. – Joey
- Matilda JR. – Tommy
- Guys and Dolls JR. – Sarah Brown’s Waiter
- The Wiz – Munchkins
He also expanded his performance work into museum installations, serving as a hologram narrator at the Templemore Baths Museum.
Parents, Family, and Personal Life
David maintains a close relationship with his family in Belfast. His parents played a direct, life-saving role in his upbringing by each donating a kidney to him following his infant kidney failure. Professionally represented by the Creative Artists Agency (CAA), David balances his burgeoning international film career with his education and ongoing artistic training. He frequently shares updates regarding his auditions, awards ceremonies, and backstage moments on his official Instagram account.
Frequently Asked Questions About David McKenna
Who is David McKenna?
David McKenna is a Northern Irish child actor and musical theatre performer from Belfast. He is widely recognized for playing Piggy in the BBC series Lord of the Flies and Digory Kirke in Netflix’s The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew.
How old is David McKenna?
David McKenna was born in 2013. He began taking theatre classes at the young age of four.
What health challenges did David McKenna face?
As an infant, David suffered from kidney failure. He received life-saving kidney transplants from both of his parents-first from his father and later from his mother.
What movies and TV shows has David McKenna starred in?
His major screen credits include the BBC television miniseries Lord of the Flies as Piggy and Netflix’s feature film adaptation The Chronicles of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew as Digory Kirke.
What is David McKenna’s height?
David McKenna stands approximately 4 feet 6 inches tall.
Where can I follow David McKenna on social media?
You can find him on Instagram, where he regularly posts updates about his stage performances, television projects, interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments.
