Tony Stonem

Anthony Stonem is a fictional character from the British television series Skins. He is the protagonist of the first two series, which aired from 2007 to 2008. The character is portrayed by Nicholas Hoult and was created by Bryan Elsley. As the central figure in the series' early seasons, Tony plays a key role in driving the narrative and relationships within the group of teenagers.

Tony is often regarded as an antihero due to his manipulative, selfish, and at times, morally questionable behavior. His actions frequently place him at odds with those around him, as he uses his charm and intelligence to control situations to his advantage. However, his character undergoes a significant transformation in the second series, following a traumatic event in which he sustains a subdural hematoma. This injury severely impacts his cognitive abilities and alters his personality, stripping him of the manipulative qualities that defined his character in the first series. As a result, Tony becomes more vulnerable and introspective, showing the more empathetic side of his character.

Nicholas Hoult, along with the rest of the main cast from the first two series, left the show after its second season. Although Tony is no longer a central character, his presence is felt in the third and fourth series, which shift the focus to his sister, Effy Stonem, played by Kaya Scodelario. While Tony's story arc is largely concluded, the character is occasionally referenced or alluded to in these later seasons.

In the 2011 American adaptation of Skins, the character of Tony is reimagined and portrayed by James Newman. In this version, Tony's surname is changed from Stonem to Schneider, marking a notable departure from the original UK series.