My Oxford Year introduced Cecelia Knowles (Poppy Gilbert), who has a much more significant role in the story than fans think. Netflix's new movie is based on Julia Whelan's novel of the same name. It follows the love story of ambitious yet fearful student Anna and charismatic poetry enthusiast and student teacher Jamie at Oxford. Along the way, several more characters slowly take part in their story, including Cecelia.
There is a growing mystery behind Cecelia because Jamie does not reveal much about her when he first introduces her to Anna, leading many to believe that she is a romantic rival who could dampen the chances of the blossoming love story between the protagonists.
Who Is Cecelia In My Oxford Year?
Right from the moment Cecelia was introduced in My Oxford Year, it was clear that her presence would bring tension to Anna and Jamie's relationship. Cecelia is deeply protective toward Jamie, leading many to believe something is going on between them behind Anna's back.
Anna (and the viewers) believe that Cecelia is Jamie's girlfriend or someone he has a casual fling with. However, things take a drastic turn after Anna finds out that Jamie is undergoing chemotherapy with Cecelia by his side. Jamie does not take it well that Anna saw the treatment, so he decides to push her away (initially).
After the tension dies down, Jamie reaches out to Anna to tell her the truth about Cecelia: She is his late brother's girlfriend, who promises to stay by Jamie's side no matter what while he goes through his own illness.
Jamie describes Cecelia's role in his life, telling Anna, "We're basically family now," especially after everything they've been through:
"Well, I've had Cecelia, who was Eddie's girlfriend, and she was with him through all of it. We're basically family now."
That confirmation clarifies who Cecelia truly is. She is not someone who will directly mess with Anna and Jamie's relationship. She is there to protect Jamie out of respect for her late boyfriend's wishes.
Poppy Gilbert brings Cecelia to life in My Oxford Year. The 26-year-old actress' most recognizable roles include playing Barbie in Stay Close, Abbie in The Catch, Chloe Fairbourne in Chloe, and Thomasina Tuckerton in The Pale Horse.
Fans can follow Poppy on Instagram (@poppy_gilbert).
Is Cecelia Present in Julia Whelan's Novel?
Yes, Cecelia was also present in Julia Whelan's My Oxford Year, and she also plays a crucial role in helping Jamie recover and making Ella (the name of Anna's character in the books) understand his illness and the ramifications of the death of his brother, Oliver.
The only difference between Cecelia in the Netflix movie and the novel is that Cecelia in the books is Oliver's fiancée and not just his girlfriend. This key change explains why Cecelia is close to Jamie's family in the first place. The book retains Cecelia's protective nature toward Jamie and her minor animosity toward Ella (Anna).
