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Last updated on the 18 June 2024 by Maeve
Mini Biography
Born 19 June 1983, Clondalkin, Dublin, Ireland.
Aidan Turner, by his own admission, wasn’t a particularly dedicated student, finding more allure in cars and pool halls than textbooks. However, a spark ignited during his time at the Gaiety School of Acting, graduating in 2004.
Aidan Turner’s early career was honed on the Dublin stage. He appeared in productions at the Abbey Theatre, Ireland’s national theatre, tackling well-known plays like “The Plough and the Stars” and “Romeo and Juliet.” These experiences instilled a strong foundation in classical acting, a quality that would later translate to his screen presence.
In 2008, Turner transitioned to television with roles in the Irish medical drama “The Clinic” and the BBC miniseries “Desperate Romantics.” These projects offered valuable screen experience, but it was the BBC supernatural drama “Being Human” (2009-2011) that brought him to international attention. Playing a charming vampire alongside a werewolf and a ghost, Turner displayed a charisma and comedic timing that captivated audiences.
This success opened doors in film. Turner landed the role of the dwarf warrior Kíli in Peter Jackson’s epic “The Hobbit” trilogy (2012-2014). The role saw him trade fangs for a battle axe, showcasing his ability to handle both action and dramatic moments.
However, it was the BBC’s 2015 adaptation of Winston Graham’s “Poldark” that cemented Turner as a leading man. His portrayal of the brooding and rugged Ross Poldark, a man returning to Cornwall after the Napoleonic Wars, became a cultural phenomenon. Turner’s smoldering good looks perfectly complemented the character’s strength and vulnerability, making him a heartthrob for a new generation.
Aidan Turner has actively sought roles that challenge his range. He played the artist Gabriel Byrne in the biographical drama “The Light Between Oceans” (2016) and the complex Leonardo da Vinci in the television series “Leonardo” (2019).
In 2020, he married actress Caitlin Fitzgerald and the couple welcomed a child the same year.
Suggested viewing
Being Human (2008)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.8
In a shared flat, an unlikely trio struggles with everyday life. A ghost longs for connection, a werewolf wrestles with his inner beast and a vampire yearns for humanity. Bound by their supernatural secrets, they find acceptance and humour in the chaos, proving friendship can exist even between monsters.
Top cast: Lenora Crichlow, Russell Tovey, Aidan Turner, Sinéad Keenan, Michael Socha, Damien Molony, Jason WatkinsKate Bracken, Donald Sumpter, Paul Kasey, Lyndsey Marshal.
Poldark (2015)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.3
“Poldark” is a sweeping historical drama set in 18th-century Cornwall, England. The series follows the life of Ross Poldark, a former soldier who returns home to find his world in turmoil. With themes of love, betrayal, and social unrest, Ross navigates personal and societal challenges, determined to rebuild his life and protect those he cares about.
Top cast: Aidan Turner, Eleanor Tomlinson, Heida Reed, Ruby Bentall, Jack Farthing, Beatie Edney, John Hollingworth, Kyle Soller, Phil Davis, John Nettles, Gabriella Wilde, Ellise Chappell, Hugh Skinner, Ruby Bentall, Turlough Convery.
The Suspect (2022)
Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 6.7
Dr. Joe O’Loughlin, a respected clinical psychologist, aids DI Vincent Ruiz and DS Riya Devi in a perplexing case. Initially deemed a suicide, it unravels into a potential murder. As the investigation progresses, doubts arise about O’Loughlin’s seemingly perfect life, raising suspicions of a hidden, alternate reality.
Top cast: Aidan Turner, Shaun Parkes, Camilla Beeput, Anjli Mohindra, Adam James, Uma Warner, Bobby Schofield, Tara Lee, Imogen Daines, Tom McKay.
And Then There Were None (2015)
Bftv 8.5/ IMDb 7.8
“And Then There Were None” is based on the mystery novel by Agatha Christie. The story revolves around ten individuals who are lured to a secluded island under false pretenses. Stranded with no way to escape, they soon discover that they are being targeted by an unknown killer, leading to a suspenseful and deadly game of cat and mouse.
Top cast: Charles Dance, Maeve Dermody, Aidan Turner, Burn Gorman, Toby Stephens, Miranda Richardson, Noah Taylor, Sam Neill, Anna Maxwell Martin.
Leonardo (2021)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.02
“Leonardo” is a historical biographical series that delves into the extraordinary life of the iconic artist and inventor, Leonardo da Vinci. The series explores his genius, his struggles, and his quest for artistic perfection, providing a captivating glimpse into the mind of a true Renaissance genius.
Top cast: Aidan Turner, Freddie Highmore, Matilda De Angelis, Carlos Cuevas, Alessandro Sperduti, James D’Arcy, Flavio Parenti, Massimo De Santis, Gabriel Lo Giudice.
