Normal People star Paul Mescal has insisted that his new-found attention in the wake of the show's release has come as a complete surprise.

In the series - set on the West coast of Ireland - the 24-year-old plays teenager Connell, who forms a relationship with school mate Marianne (Daisy Edgar-Jones).

The show has received almost universal acclaim for its portrayal of teenage life and has made instant stars out of its two leads, particularly Mescal, who has been bombarded with messages on social media.

"When people meet me in person they'll be disappointed," Mescal told Grazia. "People are taking that from the character of Connell, and that's something I actually never thought he would be.

"It was genuinely the last thing I was expecting, so I haven't formed an opinion on it yet, I suppose."

Following the success of the show, producer Ed Guiney has hinted that a second season could be on the way in future.