Unlike his namesake, the famous Hollywood star, Stephen does not enjoy success, even though he considers himself very good at his profession.

His career basically consists of "playing" dead people, i.e. victims of TV crimes, and the eponymous leading role in Sammy the Squirrel Sings Favourite Nursery Rhymes.

Meanwhile, he focuses on his job as understudy to Josh Harper, who plays Lord Byron on stage of the Hyperion Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue.

Josh, only recently voted the 12th sexiest man in the world, is the star of the show and embarking on a Hollywood career, having already collected a BAFTA award and waiting the release of his first major action blockbuster.

One day he comes close to replacing the star of the show, when he is already in costume, before Josh appears in the nick of time.

Stephen does not get to star that night, instead switching to his usual non-speaking extra role as a lycra-clad ghost that opens the door for Lord Byron (Josh) at the end of the play, and closes it behind him.

Stephen accepts, only to realize upon arriving at Josh's place that the invitation was meant to be a job offer.

The only good development in Stephen's life seems to be Nora, because Josh's American wife does not have many friends in London.

However, the situation grows complicated, once Stephen incidentally discovers that Josh is having an affair with the female lead of their play.

He also offers that he could pretend to be unavailable to act for a couple of days, which would give Stephen an occasion to star in the play.

Stephen, who realizes that he has fallen in love with Nora, promises not to tell her, on the condition that Josh end the affair.