Succession
Succession
Oscar Jacobson was founded in 1903, and since then, we’ve dressed generations of men. It’s far from unusual for both son, father, and grandfather to all have Oscar Jacobson in their wardrobes. The sense and knowledge of design, craftsmanship, and quality have been passed down. We believe in that idea – to create value, something that can last for a long time.
Thomas Hanzon joined the Royal Dramatic Theatre as an actor in 1989. Shortly after, he met Lena Endre, and their son Edvin was practically born at the theatre. During performances, Lena and Thomas took turns watching over Edvin backstage. Growing up, Edvin often accompanied his parents at work and was raised in theatres and on film sets.
Edvin has portrayed everyone from Matti Nykänen and Dag Hammarskjöld to Spotify founder Daniel Ek, and even a Viking. Knowledge, quality, and a sense of craft pass from one generation to the next.
We photographed Thomas and Edvin on the historical ground they share, the Royal Dramatic Theatre and Teatergrillen in Stockholm.
How do you think your career experiences have influenced Edvin, and in what way?
Thomas:
Edvin has been part of countless theatre rehearsals, film shoots, and tours throughout his childhood with me, and his mother Lena. He gained a rather unromantic view of the acting profession at an early age – how much work it requires, how challenging it can be at times, performance anxiety, pressure, nerves - all of it. But he also got to see how great it is when everything works out as planned.
When did you realize you wanted to be an actor yourself?
Edvin:
As far back as I can remember, I’ve loved acting. But in my early teens, maybe around 13 or 14, I felt that acting could be my future career. Now, I enjoy combining my acting with writing for both film and TV.
How was it being a parent and an actor?
Thomas:
The theatre is open when most people are off. So, part of me feels guilty for being away a lot of the time, sometimes both in the daytime and evenings. But we also had many summer breaks together, which were longer than usual. Sometimes, I’d have breaks between productions during the school term. Acting isn’t a 9-to-5 job. And I’ve always thought that if one’s parents are passionate and happy in their profession, it has a positive impact.
What are your feelings toward the Royal Dramatic Theatre today?
Edvin:
I love the Royal Dramatic Theatre. It feels like I spent a large part of my childhood here, but to go here every day? I don’t know; committing to one workplace feels intimidating. Maybe one day in the future.
Do you often talk about your profession when you meet?
Thomas:
We talk about work sometimes, but it’s not something we’re fixated on. Of course, there are times when we discuss roles, scenes, or acting in general, especially if we encounter something we both find interesting. It feels nice to share this passion, but what’s even more important is that we have a relationship outside of work.
Edvin:
Absolutely, it happens, especially when we’re both engrossed in different projects. But we try not to dwell on it too much. Sometimes, you just want to hang out and talk about anything but work. Although, it’s comforting to be able to speak with someone who has very comparable experiences.
What is your relationship to clothing and style?
Thomas:
Whenever I’m playing a role, clothes are essential for understanding and immersing myself in the character, but privately, it’s more about being myself. Style is more than just surface; it’s something that comes from within.
Edvin:
For me, clothing has always played an important role. I’ve always been interested in fashion and how it can be expressed, both privately and in my work. In films, clothes play a significant role in how characters are perceived by the audience; they’re an extension of the character. I often think about what I want to communicate even in my personal life when I choose clothes.
Is this the first time you’ve worked together?
Thomas:
Yes, it is! It’s really fun to work with your child.
Edvin:
Yes, I believe it is. We’ve had several offers before to appear in the same projects, but we’ve always said no. That goes for both my parents. I think if we’re going to work together, it should be with characters and under conditions that feel right, not just for marketing purposes. With Oscar Jacobson, we both have a personal connection, so this project felt natural.