Last updated on the 26 March 2024 by Evandrus

Mini Biography

Born 14 August 1968, Birmingham, England

Growing up in a creative household, Adrian Lester was exposed to the arts from an early age. His father was an artist and his mother worked in education, fostering an environment that nurtured his innate talent. Lester attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.

Lester’s career began to flourish in the 1990s when he gained recognition for his performances in various theater productions. One of his most notable early stage roles was as Rosalind in Shakespeare’s “As You Like It” at the Royal National Theatre in 1991. This portrayal earned him critical acclaim and marked the beginning of a series of successful collaborations with renowned theatre companies.

In addition to his theatre work, Lester has made a significant impact on the small and big screens. One of his standout roles was as the charismatic and enigmatic con artist Mickey Bricks in the popular British television series “Hustle” (2004-2012). His portrayal of the character showcased his charm, wit, and ability to captivate audiences.

In addition to his acting, Lester has also ventured into directing and writing. He co-wrote and directed the play “Red Velvet” (2012), which premiered at the Tricycle Theatre in London and later transferred to the West End. 

Adrian Lester has been married to actress Lolita Chakrabarti since 1997, and the couple have two daughters together. Both Lester and Chakrabarti are actively involved in promoting diversity and inclusion within the entertainment industry, using their platform to advocate for change.

Suggested viewing

Hustle (2004)

IMDb 9.0  / Bftv 8.0

“Hustle” is a British television series that follows a group of con artists led by the charismatic Mickey Bricks. With their quick wit, charm, and elaborate schemes, they target wealthy individuals and institutions, using their cunning skills to outsmart their victims. Each episode presents a thrilling and intricate con, showcasing their audacious exploits.

Top cast: Robert Glenister, Robert Vaughan, Rob Jarvis, Adrian Lester, Marc Warren, Jaime Murray, Matt Di Angelo, Kelly Adams, Ashley Walters.

Full filmography (@Wikipedia)

Adrian Lester Gallery