Born: 9 December 2004, Kensal Rise, London, England.
Nico Parker holding a bloody big axe
Nico Parker grew up in a creative household as the daughter of acclaimed actress Thandiwe Newton and film maker Ol Parker, she was immersed in the entertainment industry from an early age. Being the middle child between her younger brother Booker and elder sister Ripley, Nico grew up in a household that valued performance and storytelling.
While specific details about her formal education remain private, Nico Parker’s upbringing in London provided her with exposure to both British and international cinema culture. Her parents’ successful careers offered her unique insights into the craft of acting and film making, creating an environment where her natural talents could flourish.
Nico Parker’s career began with remarkable prominence when she landed her debut role as Milly Farrier in Tim Burton’s fantasy film “Dumbo” (2019). This leading role in a major Disney production immediately established her as a rising star to watch.
With a standout performance as Sarah Miller in the highly regarded HBO series “The Last of Us” (2023), she further enhanced her impressive CV by demonstrating her command of intricate dramatic material. Her filmography also includes appearances in projects like “The Third Day” and “Reminiscence,” where she had the unique opportunity to work alongside her mother.
Nico Parker keeps her personal life largely secret, concentrating on her work and artistic growth despite her increasing popularity in Hollywood. At just 20 years old, she has already demonstrated remarkable versatility and dedication, suggesting a promising future ahead. Her mixed heritage and international upbringing have contributed to her distinctive screen presence, while her family’s support continues to guide her career choices as she navigates the entertainment industry.
In a rugged Viking village where dragons are feared enemies, a misfit teenager befriends an injured dragon, defying tradition. Together, they uncover a hidden world and challenge long-held beliefs. Their bond reshapes the future of humans and dragons, proving that understanding and courage can change everything.
Top cast: Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Gerard Butler, Nick Frost, Gabriel Howell, Julian Dennison, Bronwyn James, Harry Trevaldwyn.
Born: 18 December 1925, Prestatyn, Denbighshire, Wales.
As Lucy in Hell Drivers
Peggy Cummins was born into a family with a strong Irish heritage and a theatrical inclination. Her parents were Dublin natives who had travelled to Wales, where she entered the world. Her father, Franklin Bland Fuller, descended from architect James Franklin Fuller, while her mother, Margaret Cummins, was herself an accomplished actress who appeared in various film productions. The family soon relocated to Ireland, where young Peggy spent her formative years in the affluent Dublin suburb of Killiney, receiving her early education there before eventually moving to London.
Peggy Cummins discovered her calling for performance at a young age, beginning her theatrical journey at twelve years old at Dublin’s prestigious Gate Theatre. This early start provided her with invaluable stage experience that would serve as the foundation for her later success. Her breakthrough came in 1943 when she wowed West End audiences by playing a twelve-year-old character in “Junior Miss” despite being seventeen herself.
Peggy Cummins and John Dall go “Gun Crazy”
The petite actress achieved her greatest screen immortality as the trigger-happy bank robber Annie Laurie Starr in the 1950 film noir classic “Gun Crazy,” a role that demonstrated her ability to embody dangerous femininity with compelling intensity. Her filmography included notable works such as “Curse of the Demon,” “The Late George Apley,” “Hell Drivers,” and “Escape,” establishing her as a versatile performer capable of handling both dramatic and suspenseful material with equal skill.
Peggy Cummins balanced her professional achievements with a fulfilling personal life, marrying London businessman Derek Dunnett in 1950. The couple raised two children together, son David and daughter Diana. She made the decision to retire from acting in the mid-1960s, choosing to focus on family life. Cummins lived until December 2017, passing away in London at age 92, leaving behind a legacy as one of cinema’s most memorable femme fatales.
A restless factory worker with a lifelong fascination for firearms finds his perfect match in a carnival sharpshooter. Their shared passion ignites a whirlwind romance that quickly escalates into a life of crime. They embark on a series of daring bank robberies, fuelled by their dangerous love and the thrill of the chase.
Top cast: Peggy Cummins, John Dall, Berry Kroeger, Morris Carnovsky, Anabel Shaw, Harry Lewis, Nedrick Young, Trevor Bardette.
In 1950s England, a sceptical American psychologist investigates a mysterious death linked to a demonic cult. As he delves deeper, he uncovers ancient rituals, cursed parchments, and a terrifying entity that stalks him relentlessly. Logic clashes with the supernatural in a chilling battle for survival against an unseen evil.
Top cast: Dana Andrews, Peggy Cummins, Niall MacGinnis, Maurice Denham, Athene Seyler, Liam Redmond, Reginald Beckwith, Ewan Roberts.
Ex-convict Tom Yately takes a job at a cut-throat haulage company where drivers race to deliver gravel at breakneck speeds. Determined to go straight, Tom clashes with the ruthless top driver, Red and uncovers a web of corruption and sabotage. As tensions rise, friendships are tested, secrets unravel and a deadly showdown looms on a treacherous shortcut road.
Top cast: Stanley Baker, Herbert Lom, Peggy Cummins, Patrick McGoohan, William Hartnell, Wilfrid Lawson, Sid James, Jill Ireland.
A former RAF officer, unjustly imprisoned after a tragic altercation, escapes custody and flees across England. 1. A young woman offers him surprising support and compassion as he flees an unrelenting pursuit. Torn between freedom and conscience, he must decide whether to keep running or face the consequences of his past.
Top cast: Rex Harrison, Peggy Cummins, William Hartnell, Norman Wooland, Jill Esmond, Frederick Piper, Marjorie Rhodes, Betty Ann Davies.
Three intertwined stories follow women police officers in postwar London as they confront society’s hidden struggles. From a young mother drawn into crime, to a deserter entangled in bigamy, to a neglected child in danger, each case reveals the quiet heroism and emotional toll of those upholding justice behind the scenes.
Top cast: Peggy Cummins, Terence Morgan, Anne Crawford, Rosamund John, Barbara Murray, Ronald Howard, Eleanor Summerfield, Michael Medwin.
A television set, gifted as a retirement present, begins a strange journey through various households, subtly warping the lives of its owners. As each new recipient succumbs to obsession, vanity or discontent, a devilish figure watches with glee. This satirical tale explores how technology can amplify human folly and desire.
Top cast: Stanley Holloway, Peggy Cummins, Jack Watling, Barbara Murray, Joseph Tomelty, Humphrey Lestocq, Gordon Jackson, Jean Cadell.
A seasoned cargo ship captain is unexpectedly promoted to command a luxury ocean liner. Though skilled at sea, he’s unprepared for the social whirl of cocktail parties, beauty contests and scheming crew. Confronting eccentric passengers and onboard scandals, he must stay afloat in a world where charm matters more than charts.
Top cast: John Gregson, Peggy Cummins, Bill Kerr, Reginald Beckwith, Nadia Gray, Donald Sinden, Maurice Denham, Richard Wattis.
Genevieve – Kenneth More, Kay Kendall, John Gregson and Dana Wynter
John Gregson emerged from humble Irish-Catholic roots to become one of Britain’s most recognisable character actors. He attended St. Francis Xavier’s College after attending Greenbank Road Primary School while growing up in the Wavertree neighbourhood of Liverpool. After leaving school at sixteen, Gregson initially pursued practical employment, working first as a telephone engineer and later as a clerk in the Highways department of Liverpool Corporation.
John Gregson’s path to acting began through amateur dramatics while working his civilian job. His theatrical aspirations were temporarily interrupted by World War II, during which he served with distinction aboard a Royal Navy minesweeper. This naval experience would later inform many of his military roles on screen. Following demobilisation, Gregson committed fully to his acting ambitions, joining the prestigious Liverpool Old Vic company where he made his professional stage debut in “The Knight of the Burning Pestle.”
The Titfield Thunderbolt, US lobbycard, with John Gregson, George Relph and Stanley Holloway
The late 1940s marked Gregson’s transition from stage to screen, establishing himself as a versatile character actor particularly suited to authority figures and comedy roles. He made forty credited appearances between 1948 and 1971 during the course of his two-decade cinematic career. Notable performances included military officers in war films and police inspectors, roles that capitalised on his natural authority and dependable screen presence. Television also provided significant opportunities, most memorably as Commander Gideon in the police series “Gideon C.I.D.” during the 1960s.
The Captains Table with Peggy Cummins, John Gregson and Nadia Gray
John Gregson married actress Thea Gregory in 1947 and the couple settled in London, eventually raising six children together, three sons and three daughters. Their family life remained largely private despite his public career. Tragically, John Gregson’s life was cut short when he suffered a fatal heart attack on January 8, 1975, while holidaying in Somerset. He was just fifty-five years old, leaving behind his widow and children, having established himself as a beloved figure in British entertainment.
Two couples, each with a beloved vintage car, embark on the annual London to Brighton run. Their friendly rivalry quickly escalates into a series of comedic mishaps and competitive antics on the road and at their overnight stops. As their good-natured jousting turns increasingly chaotic, their relationships are tested amidst the charming backdrop of the English countryside.
Top cast: Dinah Sheridan, John Gregson, Kenneth More, Kay Kendall, Leslie Mitchell, Joyce Grenfell, Reginald Beckwith, Arthur Wontner, Geoffrey Keen.
The enthusiastic residents of Titfield decide to operate their cherished local line themselves after British Railways announces its termination. Funded by a quirky tippler and headed by the squire and priest, they are targeted by a competing bus firm. With a museum piece locomotive and sheer determination, they aim to prove their remarkable railway can succeed.
Top cast: Stanley Holloway, John Gregson, Godfrey Tearle, Gabrielle Brune, George Relph, Sid James, Naunton Wayne, Hugh Griffith.
In the early days of WWII, a formidable German pocket battleship terrorises Allied shipping in the South Atlantic. The responsibility of tracking down this stealthy invader falls to three British cruisers. After a fierce engagement, the damaged German vessel seeks refuge in a neutral port. A tense diplomatic standoff ensues, as the British attempt to force their opponent out, leading to a dramatic resolution.
Top cast: John Gregson, Anthony Quayle, Peter Finch, Ian Hunter, Jack Gwillim, Bernard Lee, Lionel Murton, Anthony Bushell, April Olrich.
Commander George Gideon of Scotland Yard balances his demanding and often dangerous police work with a surprisingly normal family life. Each episode sees him tackling a new, complex crime, from murder and robbery to political intrigue and organised rackets. Despite the gritty nature of his cases, Gideon maintains a steady, methodical approach, often relying on keen observation and a deep understanding of human nature to bring criminals to justice.
Top cast: John Gregson, Alexander Davion, Daphne Anderson, Richard James, Giles Watling, Reginald Jessup, Basil Dignam, Hugh Ross Williamson.
A seasoned cargo ship captain is unexpectedly promoted to command a luxury passenger liner. While a master of the seas, he’s adrift in the social intricacies of high society at the captain’s table. Surrounded by eccentric passengers, conniving crew and a bevy of unattached women, he must navigate both literal and social waters, leading to comedic complications on the voyage to Australia.
Top cast: John Gregson, Peggy Cummins, Donald Sinden, Nadia Gray, Maurice Denham, Richard Wattis, Reginald Beckwith, Bill Kerr.
Born: 10 September 1948, Arundel, Sussex, England.
As Pamela Dare in To Sir, with Love
Judy Geeson came from a family with ties to the show business. Her love of the performing arts permeated her early years and she first studied ballet at the Corona Academy in Chiswick. Her aspirations to pursue a career as a professional ballet dancer were dashed, though, when she started to experience excruciating headaches from specific dance moves, which compelled her to shift her artistic goals to acting.
Judy Geeson’s transition from ballet to acting proved fortuitous, as she demonstrated natural talent and charisma that would define her career. Her television debut came remarkably early, appearing on “Dixon of Dock Green” at 12 years old, showcasing her precocious abilities. Her formal professional acting career began in earnest in 1962 with an appearance in “The Probation Officer,” setting the stage for what would become a distinguished career spanning multiple decades.
The breakthrough that catapulted Geeson to international recognition came with her role as the wayward teenager Pamela Dare in the acclaimed 1967 film “To Sir, with Love,” starring alongside Sidney Poitier. This performance established her as a significant talent in British cinema and opened doors to a diverse range of roles throughout the 1970s.
10 Rillington Place with John Hurt, Judy Geeson and Richard Attenborough
Judy Geeson built her career primarily through British television series, notably starring in “The Newcomers” from 1965 to 1967, before transitioning successfully between television and film work. Her ability to adapt to various genres and her compelling screen presence made her a sought-after actress during the height of British cinema’s international influence, establishing her as an enduring figure in entertainment.
In the 1970s, Geeson lived with set designer Sean Kenny until his death in 1973. She wed actor Kristoffer Tabori in 1985 and the two parted ways in 1989.
Rookie teacher Mark Thackeray arrives in a tough East London school, facing a class of rebellious, disaffected teens. Initially met with hostility and pranks, he abandons traditional methods, opting for respect and real-world lessons. Through his unconventional approach, he gradually earns their trust, transforming their attitudes and helping them prepare for life beyond the classroom.
Top cast: Sidney Poitier, Judy Geeson, Suzy Kendall, Lulu, Christian Roberts, Patricia Routledge, Chris Chittell, Ann Bell.
Returning from war, Ross Poldark finds his world turned upside down: his sweetheart engaged, his estate in ruins. He strives to revive his family’s fortunes and help the struggling community, often clashing with ruthless rivals. Amidst societal divides, he finds an unexpected love and fights for justice, facing complex relationships and the harsh realities of 18th-century Cornwall.
Top cast: Robin Ellis, Angharad Rees, Jill Townsend, Ralph Bates, Clive Francis, Richard Morant, Mary Wimbush, Judy Geeson.
In 1940s London, a seemingly mild-mannered man harbours a dark secret within his dingy apartment. When a young couple moves into his building, their lives become tragically entangled with his sinister acts. Based on a true story.
Top cast: Richard Attenborough, Judy Geeson, John Hurt, Douglas Blackwell, Pat Heywood, Ray Barron, Phyllis MacMahon, Isobel Black.
During the London Blitz, a young Royal Engineer officer is thrust into the perilous world of bomb disposal. With little training, he and his unit must disarm thousands of unexploded German bombs, each one a ticking death trap. The series vividly portrays the immense pressure, constant danger, and psychological toll on these brave men, as they race against time to protect the city.
Top cast: Anthony Andrews, Maurice Roëves, George Innes, Judy Geeson, Robert Pugh, Jeremy Sinden, Ken Kitson, Kenneth Cranham.
Wunmi Mosaku was born to Yoruba parents who were both university professors. Her family relocated to Manchester, England, when she was young, settling in the diverse community of Chorlton in south Manchester. Growing up as a Nigerian immigrant in England, Wunmi Mosaku experienced the challenges of cultural adaptation and racism that would later inform her artistic perspective and advocacy work.
Chadder Vale gets weird
Her educational journey reflected her diverse interests and talents. Wunmi Mosaku attended Trinity Church of England High School in Hulme, Manchester, before continuing to Xaverian Sixth Form College. During her school years, she discovered her love for performance through music, singing with the Manchester Girls’ Choir for eleven years. This early musical training helped develop her stage presence and confidence. Inspired by her passion for acting, she pursued formal training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, where she graduated in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts in Acting.
Wunmi Mosaku’s professional career launched immediately after graduation with her stage debut in a production of Pedro Calderón de la Barca’s “The Great Theatre of the World” at the Arcola Theatre in 2007. Her breakthrough in British television came through acclaimed performances in series like “Luther” and “Vera,” but it was her portrayal in the BBC drama “Damilola, Our Beloved Boy” that truly established her as a formidable talent. This performance earned her the BAFTA TV Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2017, making her only the second Black woman to win a BAFTA in the award’s 62-year history.
The actress achieved international recognition with her dual starring roles in 2020, playing Ruby Baptiste in HBO’s supernatural horror series “Lovecraft Country” and Rial in the Netflix psychological horror film “His House.” Her performance in “His House” earned her a BAFTA Film Award nomination for Best Actress, cementing her status as one of Britain’s most compelling performers. More recently, she has continued to expand her reach in Hollywood with appearances in major productions including “Deadpool & Wolverine” and “Sinners.”
Despite her growing success, Wunmi Mosaku maintains a relatively private personal life. She has been open about her experiences with racism and the importance of representation in the entertainment industry, using her platform to advocate for greater diversity and inclusion. Her journey from a young Nigerian immigrant in Manchester to an internationally acclaimed actress represents both personal triumph and broader progress in British and American entertainment.
WINNER | Television: Supporting actress for Damilola Our Loved Boy (2017)
Suggested viewing
Passenger (2024)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 5.7
In the insular Northern village of Chadder Vale, a former Met detective longs for a challenging case. When a local girl mysteriously vanishes then reappears unharmed, the community dismisses it, but the detective senses something deeply wrong. As increasingly bizarre and unsettling incidents unfold, she battles to convince the villagers that their quiet town hides a terrifying secret.
Top cast: Wunmi Mosaku, David Threlfall, Daniel Ryan, Rowan Robinson, Barry Sloane, Natalie Gavin, Jo Hartley, Nico Mirallegro.
An asylum-seeking couple from South Sudan finds a disturbing reality in their new UK home. Tormented by unsettling presences within the house and the lingering trauma of their past, they struggle to adapt, facing not only the challenges of integration but also a supernatural horror that threatens to consume them and their last vestiges of hope.
Top cast: Sope Dirisu, Wunmi Mosaku, Malaika Wakoli-Abigaba, Matt Smith, Javier Botet, Emily Taaffe, Dominic Coleman, Yvonne Campbell.
A cocky American, on the run from his life, takes a bizarre job play-testing a revolutionary virtual reality horror game in London. The advanced neural interface blurs the lines between reality and simulation, trapping him in a terrifying, personalised nightmare as the system adapts to his deepest fears. His sanity unravels as he struggles to distinguish the game from his own mind.
Top cast: Wyatt Russell, Hannah John-Kamen, Wunmi Mosaku, Ken Yamamura, Elizabeth Moynihan, Jamie Paul, Jessica Nell, Chloe Pirrie.
This poignant drama chronicles the true story of a ten-year-old Nigerian boy who, shortly after arriving in London with his family for a new life, is tragically murdered. The film focuses on his parents’ unwavering, arduous quest for justice and how their love and family unit endured through unimaginable grief and a prolonged legal battle.
Top cast: Babou Ceesay, Wunmi Mosaku, Juwon Adedokun, Sammy Kamara, Juma Sharkah, Robert Pugh, Raphel Famotibe, McKell David.
“The Paradise” with Sonya Cassidy and Joanne Vanderham
Born Emun John Mohammadi, Emun Elliott was raised in Duddingston, Portobello. His mother is Scottish and his father is of Persian lineage. His formative years included attending George Heriot’s School. He initially embarked on a degree in English literature and French at the University of Aberdeen, but his passion for performing arts led him to depart after a year. He subsequently pursued formal acting training at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, now known as the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, graduating in 2005.
“Sexy Beast” – Emun Elliott, Stanley Morgan and James McArdle
Emun Elliott’s career has encompassed a diverse range of roles across film, television and theatre. Early television appearances included “Monarch of the Glen” and “Paradox”, where he played the lead role of Dr. Christian King. He gained further recognition for his performances in “Threesome”, “The Paradise”, and “Guilt”. On the big screen, he has featured in significant productions such as Ridley Scott’s “Prometheus” and “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”, alongside films like “Black Death” and “Filth”. His stage work includes a notable run in the critically acclaimed “Black Watch” with the National Theatre of Scotland, which he performed for over two years and a Broadway debut in “The Rose Tattoo”.
While much of Emun Elliott’s personal life remains private, he has spoken about his initial shyness and how acting provides an outlet for expressing himself. He has also discussed his love for travel, inspired by his character’s journeys in “The Paradise” and his appreciation for the cultural experiences it offers.
This series delves into the explosive early relationship between two ambitious thieves as they rise through London’s vibrant and dangerous 1990s criminal underworld. It charts their complicated friendship and a burgeoning romance, showcasing the origins of their iconic lives before the events of the well-known film.
Top cast: James McArdle, Emun Elliott, Tamsin Greig, Stephen Moyer, Sarah Greene, Eliza Bennett, Clea Martin, Nicholas Nunn.
Set in Victorian England, the series follows a young woman who arrives in a bustling northern town hoping to work for her uncle. Instead, she finds herself drawn to the grand, pioneering department store across the street, “The Paradise.” As she rises through its ranks, she encounters complex relationships, ambitions and the allure of modern commerce, often clashing with the charismatic but enigmatic owner and her jealous colleagues.
Top cast: Emun Elliott, Joanna Vanderham, Sonya Cassidy, Peter Wight, Matthew McNulty, Elaine Cassidy, David Hayman, Sarah Lancashire.
Nick Frost attended Beal High School in Ilford. When he was 15, his parents’ furniture business failed, leading to the loss of their family home. This hardship compelled Frost to leave school and take a job with a shipping company to help support his family. Later, he spent two years working at an Israeli kibbutz before returning to England.
Nick Frost’s major film and television roles often feature his frequent collaborations with actor Simon Pegg and director Edgar Wright. He really hit his stride with the TV comedy series “Spaced”, playing the character Mike Watt from 1999 to 2001. This led to his prominent role as Ed in the zombie comedy “Shaun of the Dead” (2004), which marked his film debut.
Shootout in the supermarket
He continued to build on this success with roles like PC Danny Butterman in the action-comedy “Hot Fuzz” (2007) and Andy Knightley in the science fiction comedy “The World’s End” (2013), completing what is known as the “Three Flavours Cornetto” trilogy.
Beyond these collaborations, Frost has also appeared in films such as “Paul” (2011), which he co-wrote with Pegg, “Attack the Block” (2011), “Snow White and the Huntsman” (2012) and “Fighting with My Family” (2019). He’s also appeared on TV shows like “Sick Note”, “Hyperdrive”, “Man Stroke Woman” and “Into the Badlands”.
Things are not going well in Sick Note
He is a supporter of West Ham United and the England national football team. He has also been a rugby player. Frost has spoken about a challenging childhood, including his mother’s struggles with alcoholism and the deaths of close family members. He is a patron of Humanists UK.
A misfit crew of passionate DJs broadcasts rock and roll into 1960s Britain from a pirate radio ship in the North Sea. They defy the stuffy government, who seeks to shut them down, with a shared devotion to the music that defines a generation.
Top cast: Philip Seymour Hoffman, Bill Nighy, Rhys Ifans, Nick Frost, Kenneth Branagh, Tom Sturridge, Chris O’Dowd, Rhys Darby.
A slacker’s uneventful life takes a terrifying turn when a zombie apocalypse descends upon London. With his best friend, he devises a foolproof (or not so foolproof) plan: rescue his girlfriend and mum and hole up in their favourite pub until it all blows over. What follows is a hilarious, gory fight for survival, forcing our hero to finally grow up.
Top cast: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Peter Serafinowicz, Jessica Hynes, Dylan Moran, Penelope Wilton, Lucy Davis, Bill Nighy, Kate Ashfield.
An overachieving London police officer is transferred to a seemingly idyllic, crime-free village. Bored and frustrated, he’s partnered with a naive, action-movie-obsessed local copper. However, a series of gruesome “accidents” leads them to uncover a sinister conspiracy beneath the village’s peaceful facade, transforming their quiet lives into an explosive, action-packed showdown.
Top cast: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Kevin Eldon, Bill Bailey, Olivia Coleman, Jim Broadbent, Rafe Spall, Karl Johnson, Paddy Considine.
Five middle-aged friends reunite to complete an epic pub crawl they attempted in their youth. As they revisit their old haunts, they discover their hometown has been subtly, eerily changed. What begins as a nostalgic trip devolves into a desperate fight for survival when they uncover a sinister alien conspiracy, forcing them to save humanity, one pint at a time.
Top cast: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Rosamund Pike, David Bradley, Darren Boyd, Paddy Considine, Pierce Brosnan, Eddie Marsan, Martin Freeman.
A deceptive comedy follows a compulsive liar who, after a misdiagnosis, pretends to have cancer to avoid being fired. This initial deception snowballs, leading to increasingly outrageous lies and a tangled web of complications involving his family, friends and a bumbling Doctor, all while he tries to maintain the elaborate charade.
Top cast: Rupert Grint, Nick Frost, Lindsay Lohan, Don Johnson, Pippa Bennett-Warner, Daniel Rigby, Belinda Stewart-Wilson, Marama Corlett, Karl Theobald.
Two twenty-somethings, a struggling artist and a directionless writer, pretend to be a couple to secure a flat in London. Their eccentric landlady and a bizarre conceptual artist downstairs add to the chaos as they negotiate friendship, unrequited feelings and pop culture references, all while trying to figure out their lives.
Top cast: Simon Pegg, Jessica Hynes, Nick Frost, Katy Carmichael, Mark Heap, Julia Deakin.
A broadband installer secretly moonlights as a paranormal investigator, documenting his eerie findings online. When a new, reluctant partner joins him, their odd jobs become increasingly supernatural. As they stumble upon more terrifying encounters, they uncover a chilling, apocalyptic conspiracy that threatens to plunge the world into darkness, forcing them to become unlikely heroes.
Top cast: Nick Frost, Samson Kayo, Emma D’Arcy, Malcolm McDowell, Susan Wokoma, Simon Pegg, Julian Barratt, Taj Atwal.
Sophie Okonedo is a British actress with a diverse heritage, her father being Nigerian and her mother Ashkenazi Jewish. Raised in London, Okonedo’s early life was marked by her mother’s dedication after her parents divorced when she was very young. She attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), one of the UK’s most prestigious drama schools, where she developed her acting skills and prepared for a career on stage and screen.
With David Harewood in Mrs Mandela
Sophie Okonedo’s career highlights are numerous and span film, television and theatre. She gained international recognition for her powerful performance as Tatiana Rusesabagina in the 2004 film “Hotel Rwanda”, for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Her compelling portrayal showcased her ability to convey deep emotion and resilience.
Other notable film roles include “The Secret Life of Bees” (2008), “Mrs Mandela” (2010) and “Wild Rose” (2018). On television, she has been lauded for her work in “Undercover” and “Ratched”, demonstrating her versatility across different genres. Her stage career is equally impressive, earning her a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play for her role in the 2014 Broadway revival of “A Raisin in the Sun”.
Sophie Okonedo generally keeps her personal life private, focusing on her professional work. She has a daughter, Aoife and has spoken about the importance of her family. Her commitment to her craft and her thoughtful approach to her roles have cemented her reputation as one of Britain’s most respected and talented actresses.
During the Rwandan genocide, a hotel manager transforms his establishment into a refuge. As violence escalates outside, he uses his wits, charm and resources to protect over a thousand Tutsis and moderate Hutus seeking sanctuary within the hotel’s walls, desperately striving to keep them safe amidst the unfolding horrors.
Top cast: Don Cheadle, Sophie Okonedo, Nick Nolte, Joaquin Phoenix, Ofentse Modiselle, Desmond Dube, Mathabo Pieterson, Hakeem Kae-Kazim.
Stephen Frears’ compelling drama, “Dirty Pretty Things” centres on the perilous lives of undocumented immigrants in London. The narrative follows Okwe, a Nigerian physician and Senay, a Turkish hotel maid, as they cross paths and stumble upon a sinister organ trafficking operation. This discovery propels them into a desperate struggle for justice and a chance at a new beginning.
Top cast: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Sophie Okonedo, Audrey Tautou, Benedict Wong, Kriss Dosanjh, Zlatko Buric, Sergi López, Israel Oyelumade.
A prominent British lawyer is poised for a significant career advancement, but her world is upended when long-buried secrets about her seemingly perfect husband surface. His past as an undercover officer threatens to expose their family to immense danger and compromise her new, high-profile position, forcing her to confront a web of deceit.
Top cast: Sophie Okonedo, Adrian Lester, Dennis Haysbert, Alistair Petrie, Tamara Lawrance, Shannon Hayes, Daniel Ezra, David Schofield.
In a seemingly idyllic, tradition-steeped rural town, the annual May Day festivities take a sinister turn when the teenage May Queen vanishes. Her disappearance throws the close-knit community into chaos, as long-held secrets and simmering tensions surface, leading residents to suspect each other and question who among them might be responsible.
Top cast: Sophie Okonedo, Aidan Gillen, Lesley Manville, Peter Firth, Sam Spruell, Peter McDonald, Leila Mimmack, Max Fowler.
This biographical drama charts the extraordinary transformation of a young woman from a rural background into a formidable anti-apartheid activist. It portrays her journey from a devoted wife to an imprisoned leader, showcasing her resilience and radicalisation under constant oppression while her husband was incarcerated, ultimately leading to her complex and often controversial public image.
Top cast: Sophie Okonedo, David Harewood, David Morrissey, Vusi Kunene, David Dennis, Jacques Gombault, Rika Sennett, Philip Godawa.
Born: 10 September 1992, Reigate, Surrey, England.
That’s not a cricket bat!
Dylan Llewellyn was the youngest of three brothers. His early education took place at More House School in Farnham, a specialised institution catering to students with dyslexia, a condition with which Llewellyn was diagnosed. This environment provided him with valuable support and he pursued GCSEs in media, photography and drama. Initially, he harboured aspirations of becoming a photographer, viewing drama as a less demanding subject. However, a pivotal experience in a National Theatre drama competition revealed his talent and passion for acting, leading him to realise it was a way to overcome confidence issues and express himself.
With John Pointing in Big Boys
Dylan Llewellyn ‘s acting career began with appearances in a short film and an episode of “The Bill” in 2009 and 2010. He gained early recognition for his role as Martin “Jono” Johnson in the soap opera “Hollyoaks” and its spin-off “Hollyoaks Later” from 2011 to 2012. After his character’s departure, Llewellyn faced a period of fewer acting opportunities, working in a deli at one point and contemplating giving up acting. His breakthrough came with the Channel 4 sitcom “Derry Girls” (2018-2022), where he portrayed James Maguire, fondly referred to as “the wee English fella.” His charming performance resonated with audiences, garnering widespread praise and solidifying his status as a rising star.
As PC Kelby Hartford in Beyond Paradise
Following “Derry Girls”, Llewellyn continued to build his profile with prominent roles. He took on the lead as Jack in the Channel 4 series “Big Boys” (2022-2025), a character inspired by the show’s creator and currently appears as PC Kelby Hartford in “Beyond Paradise” (2023-present).
Outside of his professional life, Dylan Llewellyn is a devoted fan of Crystal Palace Football Club, a passion he inherited from his family. He often attends matches with his father and brother and when away, follows the team from afar. He generally keeps his personal life private, focusing on his acting work.
This British sitcom follows a sheltered, recently bereaved young man as he navigates his first year at university, unexpectedly befriending an older, seemingly confident “lad.” Together with their eccentric flatmates, they explore the joys and anxieties of young adulthood, including sexual awakenings, mental health struggles, and the enduring power of friendship.
Top cast: Dylan Llewellyn, Jon Pointing, Olisa Odele, Izuka Hoyle, Katy Wix, Camille Coduri, Harriet Webb, Annette Badland.
Set in 1990s Northern Ireland during the Troubles, this comedy follows a group of teenage friends navigating the hilarious and often absurd challenges of adolescence while attending a Catholic girls’ school. Amidst political unrest and daily checkpoints, their everyday lives are filled with typical teenage woes, family eccentricities and the enduring bonds of friendship.
Top cast: Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Louisa Harland, Nicola Coughlan, Jamie-Lee O’Donnell, Dylan Llewellyn, Tara Lynne O’Neill, Tommy Tiernan, Kathy Kiera Clarke.
Leaving the serene island life behind, Humphrey takes on a new role as a Detective Inspector in his fiancée Martha’s hometown, hoping for a more peaceful existence. However, his aspirations for tranquillity are swiftly dashed as he discovers the town is unexpectedly riddled with crime. He now faces a reality far more tumultuous and unpredictable than he ever imagined.
Top cast: Kris Marshall, Jade Harrison, Sally Bretton, Barbara Flynn, Dylan Llewellyn, Zahra Ahmadi, Felicity Montagu, Nina Singh, Jamie Bamber.
Born: 25 June 1981, Epworth, Lincolnshire, England.
Sheridan Smith as the one and only Cilla Black
Sheridan Smith displayed an early passion for performance. Her parents, Colin and Marilyn Smith, were a country and western duo known as The Daltons, and Sheridan began dancing at age four and singing with them by seven. She sharpened her skills at the Joyce Mason School of Dancing and was a member of the National Youth Music Theatre from 1995 to 2001, where she undertook understudy roles in productions like “Bugsy Malone” and “Into the Woods”. Although she didn’t attend traditional drama school, her comprehensive education included South Axholme Comprehensive School and John Leggott College.
Sheridan Smith’s television career began with minor roles in the late 1990s, including appearances in “Wives and Daughters” and “The Royle Family”. She gained significant recognition for her role as Janet Keogh in the sitcom “Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps” (2001-2009) and as Rudi in “Gavin & Stacey” (2008-2010). Her dramatic performances brought critical acclaim, notably as Charmian Biggs in “Mrs Biggs” (2012), for which she won a BAFTA TV Award, and in the titular role of “Cilla” (2014), portraying Cilla Black.
There may be trouble ahead for Mrs Biggs
Her film credits include “Hysteria” (2011), “Quartet” (2012), “The Huntsman: Winter’s War” (2016), and “The Railway Children Return” (2022). She also boasts a successful stage career, earning Olivier Awards for her roles in “Legally Blonde” and “Flare Path”.
In her personal life, Sheridan Smith has been open about various aspects. She has a son, Billy, born in May 2020, with her former partner Jamie Horn. The couple, who met on a dating app, were engaged before separating in 2021. Sheridan Smith has spoken about her experiences with anxiety and also shared that she was diagnosed with ADHD in her early 40s. She has often expressed gratitude for the public’s support, particularly after the passing of her father in 2016.
WINNER | Television: Leading actress for Mrs Biggs (2013)
This true story chronicles the life of a young woman who falls in love with a charming rogue, ultimately becoming the wife of a notorious train robber. Following his infamous crime and escape from prison, she is forced to live a life on the run with their children, facing hardship and sacrifice while constantly evading capture across continents.
Top cast: Sheridan Smith, Daniel Mays, Caroline Goodall, Adrian Scarborough, Tom Brooke, Jack Lowden, Claire Rushbrook, Leo Gregory.
This mini-series chronicles the vibrant early career of a working-class Liverpudlian typist who dreams of stardom. It follows her journey through the bustling 1960s music scene, from humble club performances to securing a record deal, charting her rise to become a beloved national icon.
Top cast: Sheridan Smith, Aneurin Barnard, Kent Riley, Debbie Brannan, Andrew Schofield, Melanie Hill, John Henshaw, Ed Stoppard.
This sitcom follows a group of twenty-something friends in Runcorn as they negotiate relationships, work and general life. Their main pursuits involve drinking, dating and dealing with the everyday absurdities of young adulthood in a comedic, often crude, manner.
Top cast: Will Mellor, Natalie Casey, Sheridan Smith, Kathryn Drysdale, Ralf Little, Luke Gell, Hayley Bishop, Lee Oakes.
This miniseries chronicles the true story of four young gay men tragically murdered by a serial killer in East London. It focuses on the tireless fight of the victims’ families and friends for justice, highlighting the significant police failings and institutional indifference that hampered the investigation.
Top cast: Sheridan Smith, Stephen Merchant, Leanne Best, Michael Jibson, Robert Emms, Kris Hitchen, Samuel Barnett, Ben Cartwright, Memet Ali Alabora.
Based on a true story, this drama follows a young woman’s journey after a devastating cancer diagnosis. Faced with an uncertain future, she begins writing a candid and humorous blog about her experiences, finding solace and connection with others. The series portrays her courageous fight against the illness, her deep relationships and the impact of her honest perspective.
Top cast: Sheridan Smith, Paul Nicholls, Stephanie Vogt, Tom Hutch, Marcus Griffiths, Rebekah Staton, Susannah Fielding, Jamie Baughan.
The completely normal Edmund and Dorothy (Hunderby)
Julia Davis is an English writer, comedian, actress and director known for her dark and distinctive comedic style. She grew up in Guildford, Surrey, before moving to Bath, Somerset, at the age of 14. Her mother worked as a secretary, while her father was a civil servant. Raised in the Church of England, Davis pursued higher education at the College of Ripon and York St John, where she studied English and drama. After graduating, she returned to Bath and worked various jobs before venturing into comedy.
Nighty Night with Julia Davis, Felicity Montagu and Ruth Jones
Julia Davis began her career in the late 1990s, initially performing in an improv troupe alongside Rob Brydon and Ruth Jones. Her breakthrough came with the BBC Radio 4 sketch show “Five Squeezy Pieces” in 1998, followed by appearances in television comedies such as “Big Train” and “Brass Eye”. Her work on “Human Remains” (2000), a dark comedy series she co-wrote with Rob Brydon, significantly boosted her profile, earning her wider recognition for her unique storytelling and sharp comedic style. However, her most notable work came with “Nighty Night” (2004–2005), a critically acclaimed black comedy that she wrote and starred in. She continued her success with “Hunderby” (2012–2015), “Camping” (2016), and “Sally4Ever” (2018), earning two BAFTA awards for her writing.
Beyond her own creations, Julia Davis has appeared in popular British television shows such as “Gavin & Stacey” and films including “Love Actually” (2003), “Four Lions” (2010), and “Phantom Thread” (2017). Her ability to craft unsettling yet hilarious characters has cemented her reputation as one of Britain’s most unique comedic voices.
In her personal life, Julia Davis has been in a long-term relationship with comedian Julian Barratt since 2000 and they have two children together. She maintains a relatively private life, focusing on her creative endeavours while continuing to shape British comedy with her distinctive style.
WINNER | Television: Desmond Davis Award (1988) | TV Craft, Writer: Comedy for Hunderby (2013)
A ruthless and self-absorbed woman manipulates those around her under the guise of friendliness, wreaking havoc in a quiet suburban community. Her obsession with a married man drives her to deceit, cruelty and shocking schemes, all masked by a superficial charm, leading to a darkly comedic and unsettling series of events.
Top cast: Julia Davis, Angus Deayton, Rebecca Front, Ruth Jones, Mark Gatiss, Felicity Montagu, Michael Fenton Stevens, Kevin Eldon.
In a secluded 19th-century coastal village, a young woman with a mysterious past marries a devout widower, seeking safety and redemption. However, she soon finds herself entangled in the dark secrets and cruel ambitions of those around her, as manipulations, deceit and hidden desires threaten to unravel her new life.
Top cast: Julia Davis, Alexandra Roach, Alex Macqueen, Rufus Jones, Rosie Cavaliero, Julian Barratt, Rebekah Staton, Daniel Lawrence Taylor.
A group of friends embarks on a countryside camping trip meant to celebrate a milestone birthday, but tensions quickly escalate as clashing personalities, hidden resentments and unexpected events unravel their carefully planned getaway. What was meant to be a peaceful retreat turns into a chaotic, darkly comic exploration of relationships and control.
Top cast: Julia Davis, Vicki Pepperdine, Steve Pemberton, Rufus Jones, Oaklee Pendergast, Jonathan Cake, Shaun Aylward, Elizabeth Berrington.
A quiet woman stuck in a mundane life takes a leap into a passionate new relationship, hoping for excitement and transformation. However, her journey quickly spirals into chaos as manipulation, obsession and emotional upheaval consume her world. What begins as romance soon unravels into a darkly comedic exploration of control and identity.
Top cast: Julia Davis, Catherine Shepherd, Alex Macqueen, Julian Barratt, Felicity Montagu, Steve Oram, Jane Stanness, Georgie Glen.
Born: 7 December 1996, Brighton, East Sussex, England.
As Yasmin Kara-Hanani in Industry
Marisa Abela was raised in Rottingdean with her older brother, Jack, by her side. Her parents, actress Caroline Gruber and director Angelo Abela, divorced when she was four years old. With a diverse heritage, her father of Maltese and Libyan descent and her mother of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, Abela was exposed to a rich cultural background. She attended Roedean School on a drama scholarship and took classes at The Theatre Workshop, initially intending to study History and Law at University College London to become a human rights lawyer. However, she ultimately pursued acting, graduating from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in 2019.
Marisa Abela debuted on screen at just 11 years old, portraying Alice in the 2008 thriller “Man in a Box”. She experienced a major career breakthrough in 2020 when she took on the role of Ellie Sutherland in the Sky One political thriller “COBRA”. Her prominence continued to rise with her portrayal of Yasmin Kara-Hanani in the BBC Two and HBO drama “Industry”, a performance that earned her a BAFTA for best actress.
With Lesley Manville in Back to Black
She also appeared in films such as “She Is Love” (2022), “Rogue Agent” (2022), and “Barbie” (2023), where she played Teen Talk Barbie. In 2024, she portrayed Amy Winehouse in “Back to Black”, a biographical drama that received mixed reviews but earned praise for her performance.
In her personal life, Marisa Abela is engaged to actor and singer Jamie Bogyo. She is passionate about animal welfare and owns a pet dog named Molly. Beyond acting, she enjoys travelling and has been featured on various magazine covers. Her career continues to flourish, solidifying her status as a rising star in the entertainment industry.
WINNER | Television: Leading Actress for Industry (2025)
A group of ambitious graduates competes for permanent positions at a prestigious London investment bank, tackling the high-pressure world of finance. As they face ruthless competition, ethical dilemmas and personal struggles, they must balance their careers with their own identities, forming complex relationships while confronting the brutal realities of corporate life.
Top cast: Marisa Abela, Myha’la Herrold, Ken Leung, Harry Lawtey, Sagar Radia, Conor MacNeill, David Jonsson, Caoilfhionn Dunne.
The film explores the life and career of Amy Winehouse, capturing her meteoric rise and struggles with fame. It examines her personal relationships, artistic journey and battles with addiction, offering an intimate look at her passion for music and the challenges that shaped her legacy in the industry.
Top cast: Marisa Abela, Jack O’Connell, Eddie Marsan, Lesley Manville, Juliet Cowan, Sam Buchanan, Pete Lee-Wilson, Thelma Ruby.
Teresa Palmer and Matthew Goode (A Discovery of Witches)
Matthew Goode was raised by his mother, Jennifer, a nurse, after his parents divorced when he was young. He has four siblings, including a half-brother who is also an actor. Goode received his education at Exeter School, an independent school for boys, before furthering his studies at the University of Birmingham, where he studied drama. He later trained at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
Matthew Goode embarked on his acting journey in the early 2000s, securing roles in various television films and series. He gained wider recognition for his performance as Ben Calder in the romantic comedy Chasing Liberty (2004) alongside Mandy Moore. This early role contributed to establishing his on-screen persona as a charismatic leading actor. He further solidified his presence in film with roles in Woody Allen’s Match Point (2005), the historical drama Copying Beethoven (2006) and the period romance Brideshead Revisited (2008).
With Hayley Atwell and Ben Whishaw (Brideshead Revisited)
His career has also flourished in television. Goode starred as Henry Talbot in the critically acclaimed period drama Downton Abbey (2014-2015), a role that introduced him to a global audience. He also took on the role of Finn Polmar in the legal and political show “The Good Wife”, appearing between 2014 and 2015. More recently, he has garnered significant praise for his portrayal of Antony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon, in the Netflix historical drama series The Crown (2017-2018), for which he received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination. His diverse roles in both film and television have established him as a respected and sought-after actor.
In his personal life, Matthew Goode has been in a long-term relationship with Sophie Dymoke since 2007. Dymoke, a fashion sales director, and Goode have three children together: two daughters and a son. They have chosen to keep their personal life relatively private, residing in Surrey, England.
In Edinburgh, a newly formed cold case unit takes on the city’s most baffling unsolved murders. Led by a tenacious but troubled detective, the team dive into the dark and complex histories of these forgotten crimes. As they unearth long-buried secrets and confront dangerous truths, they strive to bring closure to the victims and their families.
Top cast: Matthew Goode, Kelly Macdonald, Chloe Pirrie, Alexej Manvelov, Leah Byrne, Mark Bonnar, Jamie Sives, Shirley Henderson.
An impressionable young man from a modest background becomes entangled with a wealthy and eccentric aristocratic family during his time at Oxford. His initial fascination with their opulent lifestyle and a close friendship with the charming heir evolve into a complex web of desire, faith and social class, ultimately shaping the course of his life against the backdrop of a changing England.
Top cast: Matthew Goode, Felicity Jones, Greta Scacchi, Jonathan Cake, Michael Gambon, Ben Whishaw, Hayley Atwell, Emma Thompson.
This historical drama chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, from her unexpected ascension to the throne in the aftermath of World War II through the challenges and triumphs of subsequent decades. It explores the intricate personal and political relationships within the royal family and the evolving role of the monarchy in a changing world, revealing the human drama behind the crown.
Top cast: Jeremy Northam, Matt Smith, Claire Foy, Helena Bonham Carter, Olivia Colman, Vanessa Kirby, Victoria Hamilton, Matthew Goode (S2).
A historian’s discovery of a bewitched manuscript plunges her into a hidden world of supernatural beings. Drawn into a forbidden alliance with a mysterious vampire, she must embrace her own magical heritage to unravel the book’s secrets and confront the dangers that threaten their existence.
Top cast: Valarie Pettiford, Louise Brealey, Aiysha Hart, Teresa Palmer, Owen Teale, Alex Kingston, Malin Buska, Matthew Goode.
Set in an Edwardian country estate, this period drama follows the lives of an aristocratic family and their servants. As they negotiate societal shifts, personal dramas and historical events, the intricate hierarchy and interwoven destinies of those above and below stairs are revealed, showcasing love, loss and the changing face of Britain.
Top cast: Brendan Coyle, Michelle Dockery, Hugh Bonneville, Phyllis Logan, Maggie Smith, Laura Carmichael, Joanne Froggatt, Elizabeth McGovern, Jim Carter, Matthew Goode (S.5-6).
During World War II, a brilliant but socially awkward mathematician leads a team in cracking the German Enigma code. Facing immense pressure and personal struggles, their groundbreaking work significantly shortens the war, yet his own wartime contributions and personal life are tragically kept secret due to prevailing societal prejudices.
Top cast: Matthew Beard, James Northcott, Mark Strong, Benedict Cumberbatch, Rory Kinnear, Keira Knightley, Allen Leech, Charles Dance, Matthew Goode.
In this gripping mystery set in the world of “Pride and Prejudice”, Elizabeth and Darcy’s idyllic life at Pemberley is shattered when a shocking murder occurs on their estate. As secrets unravel and reputations hang in the balance, they must confront dark truths and untangle a web of intrigue before justice is served.
Top cast: James Norton, Matthew Goode, Nichola Burley, Eleanor Tomlinson, Matthew Rhys, Jenna Coleman, Trevor Eve, Anna Maxwell Martin, Tom Ward.
Born: 23 April 1962, East Kilbride, Lanarkshire, Scotland
A Touch of Cloth cast promo
John Hannah grew up in a working-class family. His father was a toolmaker and his mother worked in a supermarket. He attended Claremont High School in East Kilbride. After leaving school, Hannah initially trained as an apprentice electrician for four years before deciding to pursue his passion for acting. This significant career shift led him to enrol in the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow, where he laid the foundation for his future success in the entertainment industry.
John Hannah’s career began on the stage, performing in various theatrical productions. His breakthrough into mainstream recognition came with his role as Matthew in the iconic romantic comedy “Four Weddings and a Funeral” (1994). This performance brought him international attention and a BAFTA Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Following this success, he starred in other notable films, including “Sliding Doors” (1998) and “The Mummy” trilogy (1999-2008), where he played the memorable character Jonathan Carnahan.
Four Weddings and a Funeral with Simon Callow and Charlotte Coleman
In addition to his film work, Hannah has had a prolific career in television. He starred as Dr. Iain McCallum in the crime drama series “McCallum” (1995-1998) and gained further acclaim for his portrayal of Quintus Lentulus Batiatus in the critically acclaimed historical drama series “Spartacus” (2010-2013). His television credits also include roles in series such as “Cold Blood”, “Dirk Gently”, and “Transplant”, demonstrating his continued presence and impact across different genres on the small screen.
In his personal life, John Hannah married actress Joanna Roth in 1996. They met while working on a play together. The couple have twins, a son and a daughter, born in 2004. Hannah and his family have resided in London for many years. Known for his down-to-earth demeanour and engaging performances, John Hannah has established himself as a respected and enduring figure in British and international entertainment.
A cynical, hard-drinking detective, haunted by personal tragedy, tackles a series of increasingly bizarre and convoluted murders. This darkly comedic parody of police procedurals skewers genre tropes with absurd situations, over-the-top characters and relentlessly silly dialogue.
Top cast: John Hannah, Suranne Jones, Adrian Bower, Navin Chowdhry, Daisy Beaumont, Julian Rhind-Tutt, Adam Tandy, Karen Gillan.
In the gritty atmosphere of London, a brilliant but unconventional forensic pathologist investigates complex and often disturbing deaths. Driven by a relentless pursuit of truth, he digs into the intricate details of each case, often clashing with police bureaucracy and confronting personal demons as he seeks justice for the deceased.
Top cast: John Hannah, Zara Turner, James Saxon, Hugo Speer, Alex Walkinshaw, Suzanna Hamilton, Gerard Murphy, Richard O’Callaghan.
A charming but perpetually single man and an intriguing American woman experience a series of encounters at different weddings, punctuated by a sombre funeral. Their paths repeatedly cross amidst the joyous and sorrowful occasions, leading to humorous situations and a growing, albeit uncertain, romantic connection as they negotiate life and love.
Top cast: Hugh Grant, Andie MacDowell, James Fleet, Simon Callow, John Hannah, Kristin Scott Thomas, Charlotte Coleman, David Bower.
Born: 7 December 1943, Warrington, Lancashire, England.
Sue Johnston as Dr. Grace Foley (Waking the Dead)
Sue Johnston, a name synonymous with British television, was born Susan Pammenter in the heartland of England. Growing up in a working-class environment, she developed a keen sense of humour and a deep connection to ordinary people that would later define her acting career. Her formative years were marked by a spirit of resilience and a determination to explore the world beyond her hometown.
A spark ignited within Johnston when she discovered the world of drama. This led her to pursue formal training at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in London. The academy provided the young actress with a solid foundation in acting techniques and a platform to hone her craft. It was during these years that she began to develop her distinctive style, characterised by authenticity and a natural ability to connect with audiences.
Sue Johnston and Ricky Tomlinson (The Royle Family)
Johnston’s career took flight in the 1980s when she landed a pivotal role in the groundbreaking soap opera, Brookside. Her portrayal of Sheila Grant, a complex and multifaceted character, brought her widespread recognition and acclaim.
Diane Morgan and Sue Johnston (The Cockfields)
However, it was her subsequent role as Barbara Royle in the sitcom The Royle Family that cemented her status as a national treasure. Her portrayal of the outspoken and often hilarious matriarch of the Royle family captured the hearts of millions of viewers. Johnston’s comedic timing and ability to find humour in the mundane were instrumental in the show’s enduring success.
In her personal life, Sue Johnston is known for her down-to-earth nature and her passion for social causes. A devoted mother and grandmother, Johnston has been a vocal champion for LGBTQ+ rights and a steadfast supporter of the Labour Party.
The Royle Family is a comedic portrait of working-class life, centered around a dysfunctional yet endearing family. With a sharp wit and observational humour, the show captures the mundane joys and frustrations of everyday existence, all while offering a warm and relatable look at family dynamics.
Top cast: Sue Johnston, Ricky Tomlinson, Caroline Aherne, Craig Cash, Ralf Little, Jessica Hynes, Liz Smith, Peter Martin, Doreen Keogh, Geoffrey Hughes, Sheridan Smith.
Jam & Jerusalem is a heartwarming comedy-drama following the lives of women in a small English village. Centered around a local Women’s Institute, the series explores friendship, community and personal growth through the lens of humourous and relatable characters, tackling themes of loss, resilience and the enduring spirit of village life.
Top cast: Jennifer Saunders, Salima Saxton, Dawn French, Maggie Steed, Rosie Cavaliero, Sally Phillips, Sue Johnston, David Mitchell, Pauline McGlynn.
“Waking the Dead” follows a London police team dedicated to reopening cold cases. This team, composed of detectives, a psychologist and a forensic expert, utilises advanced technology to unearth hidden clues and bring forgotten victims’ stories back into the spotlight.
Top cast: Trevor Eve, Tara Fitzgerald, Sue Johnston, Claire Goose, Wiil Johnson, Felicite du Jeu, Esther Hall, Holly Aird.
Rovers is a British sitcom centred around the lives of the regulars at a struggling non-league football club’s social club. With Doreen as the matriarchal bar manager and a colourful cast of locals including the fanatical Pete, his best friend Tel and the troubled duo Lee and Bruce, the series offers a humorous and heartwarming look at the everyday lives and eccentric personalities of these working-class characters, all bonded by their shared love for the underachieving Rovers football team.
Top cast: Craig Cash, Sue Johnston, Steve Speirs, Lolly Adefope, Jamie Demetriou, Diane Morgan, Pearce Quigley, Joe Wilkinson, David Earl.
The Cockfields is a comedy series centered around Simon, a man returning to his Isle of Wight family home with his girlfriend for his 40th birthday. A weekend from hell ensues as Simon is trapped with a dysfunctional family: a domineering mother, an egotistical stepbrother and his father’s younger girlfriend.
Top cast: Sue Johnston, Diane Morgan, Joe Wilkinson, Ben Rufus Green, Susannah Fielding, Sarah Parish, Gregor Fisher, Nigel Havers, Michele Dotrice, Bobby Ball, David Earl.
Matthew Beard attended King Ecgbert School in Sheffield, where he excelled academically, achieving top grades in his A-Level subjects in 2007. His academic prowess led him to the University of York, where he pursued a degree in English and French literature.
Juergen Maurer and Matthew Beard (Vienna Blood)
Matthew Beard’s career took off with his feature film debut in the drama “And When Did You Last See Your Father?” in 2007. His portrayal of Blake Morrison as a teenager garnered attention and set the stage for more significant roles. In 2009, he starred as the shy Graham in the critically acclaimed film “An Education,” which earned multiple Academy Award nominations. Beard’s ability as an actor was further showcased in “The Imitation Game” (2014), where he played mathematician Peter Hilton, a key member of Alan Turing’s team.
Luise von Finckh, Matthew Beard and Juergen Maurer (Vienna Blood)
Beard’s talent extended beyond the silver screen. In 2015, he joined Bill Nighy and Carey Mulligan in the David Hare play “Skylight” in the West End and on Broadway, earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Play. His stage presence was further solidified with his role as Edmund Tyrone in the 2018 revival of “Long Day’s Journey into Night” in the West End and at the Brooklyn Academy of Music.
In television, Beard is best known for his role as Max Lieberman in the BBC series “Vienna Blood” (2019-) and as Deputy Alan Lewis in the HBO series “Avenue 5” (2020).
In addition to his acting pursuits, Beard has also ventured into modelling. In 2011, he modelled for the English clothing label Burberry and in 2015 he worked for Prada. His striking looks and charismatic presence have made him a sought-after figure in the fashion industry as well.
Vienna Blood is a period crime drama set in the opulent yet troubled Vienna of the early 20th century. A young English doctor, a protégé of Sigmund Freud, employs his unconventional psychological insights to assist a seasoned detective in solving a series of gruesome murders. The show masterfully blends crime investigation with the exploration of societal tensions, personal struggles and the burgeoning field of psychoanalysis, creating a complex and enthralling narrative.
Top cast: Matthew Beard, Juergen Maurer, Luise von Finckh, Amelia Bullmore, Conleth Hill, Charlene McKenna, Raphael von Bargen, Jessica De Gouw, Simon Hatzl, Lucy Griffiths.
Lindsay Duncan came from a working-class family, her father served in the British army for 21 years before becoming a civil servant. The family moved to Leeds and then Birmingham during her childhood. Tragically, her father died in a car accident when she was 15 years old. Despite these challenges, Duncan’s early life was marked by a strong sense of determination and resilience.
Lindsay Duncan’s education played a crucial role in shaping her career. She attended King Edward VI High School for Girls in Birmingham on a scholarship. Her passion for acting was ignited through school productions and she became friends with future playwright Kevin Elyot, who influenced her decision to pursue drama. Duncan later trained at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London.
Lindsay Duncan and Kerry Condon (Rome)
She began her professional journey in theatre, performing in various productions at the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester. Her stage career flourished, earning her critical acclaim and numerous awards, including two Olivier Awards and a Tony Award. Duncan’s notable stage performances include roles in Harold Pinter’s plays and her award-winning portrayal in “Private Lives”.
She has appeared in a wide range of films, including “Prick Up Your Ears” (1987), “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” (1999), “Under the Tuscan Sun” (2003), “Alice in Wonderland” (2010), and “Birdman” (2014). Her television credits include memorable roles in “Rome” (2005-2007), “Doctor Who” (2009), “The Honourable Woman” (2014) and “Sherlock” (2014-2017).
Steve Pemberton, Lindsay Duncan and Steve Pemberton (Simon Says)
On a personal front, Lindsay Duncan is married to fellow actor Hilton McRae, whom she met in 1985 at the Royal Shakespeare Company. The couple have one son, Cal McRae, born in 1991. Duncan’s personal life has been marked by both joy and sorrow. Her mother, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease, passed away in 1994, inspiring the play “The Winter Guest” by Sharman Macdonald.
In the summer of 1953, with a stroke threatening to end his career, Winston Churchill struggles to conceal his illness from the world. His devoted wife, Clementine, battles to protect his privacy while political rivals circle, eager to seize power. Amidst this personal and political crisis, the film explores the immense pressure on a leader in a time of uncertainty.
Top cast: Michael Gambon, Romola Garai, Lindsay Duncan, Daisy Lewis, Matilda Sturridge, Patrick Kennedy, Christian McKay, Chris Larkin.
In this dark comedy drama, a group of old friends, reunited at a funeral, make a shocking pact born from a drunken conversation: to help each other end their lives with dignity if they face a painful decline. What begins as a seemingly impossible idea quickly morphs into a chilling reality, testing their bonds of friendship and challenging the very notion of assisted death.
Top cast: Lindsay Duncan, Clarke Peters, Peter Egan, Fiona Button, Kiran Sonia Sawar, Sandra James-Young, Isabelle Pratt, Phil Davis, Sue Johnston, Karl Johnson.
Rome is a gritty historical drama chronicling the decline of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Empire. Interweaving the lives of both aristocratic power players and ordinary soldiers, the series offers a raw and visceral portrayal of ambition, betrayal and the brutal realities of power struggles amidst a backdrop of political intrigue and societal upheaval.
Top cast: Kevin McKidd, Ray Stevenson, Polly Walker, James Purefoy, Lindsay Duncan, Tobias Menzies, Kerry Condon, Simon Woods.
A television writer becomes trapped in a deadly game of cat and mouse with an obsessive fan who holds damning evidence against him. The fan demands the writer rewrite a controversial series finale to satisfy his own vision, leading to a sinister power struggle filled with blackmail, manipulation and shocking violence.
Inside No. 9, S6.E2
Top cast: Lindsay Duncan, Steve Pemberton, Reece Shearsmith, Nick Mohammed.
A British couple trades the hustle of city life for a sun-drenched Provençal farmhouse, naively expecting an idyllic escape. Reality swiftly intervenes with harsh winter winds, unreliable tradesmen and the complexities of rural French life. Amidst these challenges, they savour exquisite cuisine, encounter eccentric locals and gradually find a rhythm in their new, often humorous, adventure.
Top cast: John Thaw, Lindsay Duncan, Jean-Pierre DeLarge, Harry HallJo Doumerg, Alfred MolinaJim Carter, James Fleet, Frank Middlemass.
Charlie Higson is a multi-talented actor, comedian, author and former singer. His early life was marked by a diverse range of interests and experiences that would later shape his eclectic career. Higson attended Sevenoaks School in Kent, where he developed a passion for the arts. His early education laid a strong foundation for his future endeavours in literature and entertainment.
The Fast Show – Paul Whitehouse and Charlie Higson (Ted and Ralph)
After completing his schooling, Higson pursued higher education at the University of East Anglia (UEA) in Norwich. It was here that he met Paul Whitehouse, David Cummings and Terry Edwards, who would become his lifelong friends and collaborators. At UEA, Higson studied English and American Literature, a choice that reflected his deep-seated love for storytelling and the written word. During his time at university, he also formed the band The Higsons, where he served as the lead singer from 1980 to 1986. This period was marked by a vibrant punk rock scene and Higson’s involvement in music added another layer to his creative repertoire.
Charlie Higson as Swiss Toni
Charlie Higson’s career in film and television began to take shape in the late 1980s and early 1990s. He started writing for Harry Enfield with Paul Whitehouse and performing comedy, which eventually led to his breakthrough as one of the main writers and performers of the BBC Two sketch show “The Fast Show” (1994–2000). This show became a cultural phenomenon, known for its quick-fire sketches and memorable characters. Higson’s versatility as a performer and writer was evident in his ability to create and portray a wide range of comedic personas.
Charlie Higson as Colin Hunt
In addition to “The Fast Show,” Charlie Higson’s notable television appearances include his work on the radio comedy “Down the Line,” the film thriller “Suite 16,” and the BBC Three sitcom “Swiss Toni.” He also worked as a producer, writer, director and occasional guest star on “Randall & Hopkirk (Deceased)” from 2000 to 2001. In 2013, Higson adapted Agatha Christie’s “A Caribbean Mystery” for ITV’s “Agatha Christie’s Marple” series, further cementing his reputation as a skilled storyteller.
Charlie Higson has also made significant contributions to literature, particularly in the genres of young adult fiction and horror. He is best known for two major series: the Young Bond series and The Enemy series.
He is married to Victoria L. Fullick and together they have three sons. The family resides in London, where Higson continues to balance his work in television, film and literature. Despite his busy schedule, he finds time to indulge in his hobbies, which include gardening, a passion that provides a tranquil counterpoint to his often hectic professional life.
The Fast Show is a British comedy sketch show renowned for its rapid-fire delivery and memorable characters. With a relentless pace, it presents a diverse range of absurd and often surreal scenarios, populated by iconic figures like the hapless Ted and Ralph, the enigmatic Swiss Toni and the perpetually unlucky Alf. Its sharp wit, catchphrases, and lightning-quick transitions have solidified its status as a comedy classic, leaving a lasting impact on British television.
Top cast: Paul Whitehouse, Charlie Higson, Arabella Weir, Simon Day, John Thomson, Caroline Aherne, Mark Williams, Colin McFarlane, Rhys Thomas.
Harry Enfield is the eldest of four children. His father, Edward Enfield, was a well-known television, radio and newspaper journalist, while his mother, Deirdre Jenkins, was a homemaker. The Enfield family has a notable lineage, being descendants of the 19th-century philanthropist Edward Enfield. Growing up in a family with a strong media presence, Enfield was exposed to the world of entertainment from a young age.
“Loadsamoney”
Enfield attended three private schools: Arundale School in Pulborough and Dorset House School and Worth School, both located in West Sussex.
He later attended Collyer’s Sixth Form College before enrolling at the University of York. At York, he was a member of Derwent College and studied politics. During his university years, Harry’s interest in comedy and performance began to take shape, leading him to squat in Hackney and work as a milkman while pursuing his passion for comedy.
Harry Enfield’s career took off when he appeared on Channel 4’s “Saturday Live,” where he introduced several memorable characters created with Paul Whitehouse. Among these were Stavros, a Greek kebab shop owner and Loadsamoney, an obnoxious plasterer who became a cultural phenomenon. His success on “Saturday Live” led to the creation of “Harry Enfield’s Television Programme,” which later evolved into “Harry Enfield and Chums.” These shows featured iconic characters such as Kevin the Teenager, Tim Nice-But-Dim, Smashie and Nicey, and The Scousers.
“Smashie and Nicey”
In addition to his television work, Harry has appeared in several films, including “Kevin & Perry Go Large” (2000), where he reprised his role as Kevin the Teenager and “Churchill: The Hollywood Years” (2004), where he played King George VI. He also starred in “The Bad Education Movie” (2015) and had a recurring role in the television series “Bad Education”. Enfield’s versatility as a comedian and actor has made him a beloved figure in British comedy.
In 2016, he played the role of William Shakespeare’s father in the TV comedy “Upstart Crow”. Since then, he has been portraying Prince Charles in the comedy TV show “The Windsors”.
The Windsors – Harry Enfield (Charles) and Haydn Gwynne (Camilla)
Harry Enfield married Lucy Lyster in 1997 and the couple have three children together. However, their marriage faced challenges and in 2020, it was reported that Harry had moved out of the family home. The couple announced their separation in August 2020.
Throughout his career, Enfield has left a unique mark on British comedy with his extraordinary characters and satirical humour. His ability to capture the essence of various personas and bring them to life has earned him a special place in the hearts of audiences. As he continues to entertain and inspire, Harry Enfield’s legacy as a comedian and actor remains strong.
Harry Enfield and Chums is a sketch comedy series that aired in the 1990s, showcasing a vibrant cast of comedic characters. From the irritatingly precocious Kevin to the politically incorrect Tory Boy, the show delivered a satirical and often absurd take on British society and culture through a series of quick-fire sketches.
Top cast: Harry Enfield, Kathy Burke, Paul Whitehouse, Louisa Rix, Gary Bleasdale, Stephen Moore, Mark Moraghan, David Barber, Jon Glover, Georgie Glen, Caroline Harker, Ewen Bremner, Julia St John, Martin Clunes.
Harry Enfield’s Television Programme, a cornerstone of British comedy, introduced a pantheon of absurd and relatable characters. With biting satire and impeccable comic timing, the show skewered everything from teenage angst to the foibles of the elderly. A blend of surreal humour and sharp social commentary, it catapulted Enfield and his ensemble into the comedy stratosphere, leaving an enduring legacy of laughter and cultural impact.
Top cast: Harry Enfield, Paul Whitehouse, Kathy Burke, Jon Glover, Aden Gillett, Joe McGann, Martin Clunes, Nathaniel Parker, Caroline Quentin.
Ruddy Hell! It’s Harry and Paul is a sketch comedy series renowned for its irreverent and often politically incorrect humour. The show masterfully blends satire and absurdity, tackling social issues and stereotypes with a sharp wit. Featuring a dynamic duo at the helm, the series delivers a potent mix of crude comedy and intelligent observation.
Top cast: Harry Enfield, Paul Whitehouse, Sophie Winkleman, Alice Lowe, Catherine Shepherd, Laura Solon, Simon Day, Kevin Eldon, Daniel Kaluuya, Morwenna Banks.
Harry & Paul’s Story of the 2s is a comedic romp through the history of BBC Two. With their signature blend of satire and absurdity, the duo parodies iconic shows and personalities from the channel’s past. From its humble beginnings to the present day, the special offers a hilarious and nostalgic look at the network’s impact on British television.
Top cast: Harry Enfield, Paul Whitehouse, Kevin Eldon, Rhys Thomas, Simon Greenall, Joseph Morpurgo, Catherine Shepherd, Rosie Cavaliero, Justin Edwards, Lucy Montgomery, Elliot Speller-Gillott.
The Windsors is a satirical comedy series that reimagines the British royal family as a dysfunctional soap opera. With exaggerated personalities and absurd plotlines, the show parodies the public image of the Windsors, exploring their private lives and the pressures of royal life through a comedic lens, often poking fun at their public relations efforts and the media’s obsession with them.
Top cast: Hugh Skinner, Louise Ford, Harry Enfield, Haydn Gwynne, Celeste Dring, Ellie White, Richard Goulding, Kathryn Drysdale, Morgana Robinson, Katy Wix, Matthew Cottle, Tim Wallers, Vicki Pepperdine.
Two socially awkward teenage boys, obsessed with losing their virginity and finding fame as DJs, convince their parents to accompany them on a holiday to Ibiza. Amidst the island’s vibrant nightlife, they encounter a world-famous DJ, pursue their romantic aspirations and grapple with a series of misadventures, all while trying to maintain their innocence and avoid complete humiliation.
Top cast: Harry Enfield, Kathy Burke, Rhys Ifans, Laura Fraser, James Fleet, Louisa Rix, Tabitha Wady, Paul Whitehouse, Natasha Little.
Sophie Turner is the daughter of Sally, a nursery school teacher, and Andrew, who works for a pallet distribution company. When Sophie was two years old, her family moved to Chesterton, Warwickshire. Growing up in a large Edwardian house near Leamington Spa, Sophie had a childhood filled with outdoor adventures, often playing in pigsties, barns and paddocks. She has two older brothers, and her twin died in utero.
Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark) and Jack Gleeson (Joffrey Baratheon)
From a young age, Sophie was drawn to the performing arts. She joined the Playbox Theatre Company when she was just three years old, which provided her with a strong foundation in acting. Her formal education began at Warwick Prep School, where she studied until she was eleven. She then attended The King’s High School for Girls, an independent school in Warwick. Balancing her education with her burgeoning acting career, Sophie had a tutor on the set of “Game of Thrones” until she was sixteen. She earned five A-grades and four B-grades in her GCSEs, with one of the Bs being in Drama.
Sophie Turner’s’s acting career took off when she was cast as Sansa Stark in the HBO epic fantasy television series “Game of Thrones” in 2009. This role, which she played from 2011 to 2019, brought her international fame and critical acclaim. Her performance as Sansa Stark garnered her an Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in 2019.
Sophie Turner in Game of Thrones
During her time on “Game of Thrones,” Turner also appeared in other notable projects. In 2013, she took on a leading role in the British drama TV film “The Thirteenth Tale” and also made her first appearance in a feature film with the psychological thriller “Another Me. ”She also appeared in the action comedy “Barely Lethal” in 2015 and portrayed a young Jean Grey/Phoenix in the “X-Men” film series from 2016 to 2019.
Sophie Turner’s personal life has also been in the spotlight. In late 2016, she began dating American singer and actor Joe Jonas. The couple announced their engagement in October 2017 and got married in a surprise ceremony in Las Vegas on May 1, 2019. They later held a second wedding ceremony in Paris on June 29, 2019. Sophie and Joe welcomed their first child, a daughter named Willa, in July 2020. In March 2022, they announced that they were expecting their second child. In early September 2023, Jonas initiated divorce proceedings against Turner in Miami, Florida. Both Turner and Jonas later confirmed on Instagram that the decision was mutual.
with Frank Dillane in “Joan”
Throughout her career, Turner has been open about her struggles with mental health. She has spoken candidly about her experiences with depression and an eating disorder, which she faced while growing up in the public eye. Despite these challenges, Sophie Turner has continued to thrive in her career and personal life, becoming a role model for many young people around the world.
Set in 1980s London, the series follows a determined young mother trapped in a dangerous marriage. To secure a better future for her daughter, who is in social services, she plunges into the exhilarating world of high-stakes crime. Through clever disguises and sharp intellect, she rises to become a notorious jewel thief.
Top cast: Sophie Turner, Frank Dillane, Alex Blake, Caroline Faber, Gershwyn Eustache Jnr, Kirsty J. Curtis, Laura Aikman, Mia Milli champ-Long.
A sprawling saga of power, betrayal, and survival, Game of Thrones intertwines the fates of noble houses vying for the Iron Throne in a realm of shifting alliances and ancient prophecies. As winter approaches, a sinister force threatens from beyond the Wall, while dragons are reborn and characters grapple with love, loss and the true meaning of loyalty in a world where honour is a fleeting concept.
Sophie Turner’s portrayal of Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones is widely acclaimed for its depth and evolution. Turner began playing Sansa at the age of thirteen and her character’s journey from a naive young girl to the resilient Queen of the North is one of the most compelling arcs in the series.
Top cast: Emilia Clarke, Iain Glen, Kit Harington, Peter Dinklage, Lena Headey, Sophie Turner, Maisie Williams, Conleth Hill, Alfie Allen, Richard Madden, Mark Addy, Natalie Dormer, Diana Rigg, Sean Bean.
Lena Headey’s early life was marked by frequent relocations due to her father’s career as a police officer. When Lena was five, her family moved back to England, initially settling in Somerset before relocating to Shelley, West Yorkshire. It was here that Lena’s interest in acting began to take shape. She attended Shelley College, where she participated in school productions and it was during one of these performances that she was noticed by a casting agent.
Lena Headey’s education was somewhat unconventional. She did not attend drama school, but instead learnt her craft through practical experience. At the age of 17, she was cast in her first film, “Waterland” (1992), where she worked alongside established actors. This early exposure to the film industry provided Lena with invaluable experience and set the stage for her future career.
Lena Headey’s career is marked by a series of notable film and television appearances. She gained international recognition for her portrayal of Cersei Lannister in the HBO fantasy drama series “Game of Thrones” (2011-2019), a role that earned her five Primetime Emmy Award nominations and a Golden Globe nomination.
Mark Addy and Lena Headey (Game of Thrones)
Prior to this, she had already made a name for herself with roles in films such as “The Brothers Grimm” (2005) and “300” (2006), where she played Queen Gorgo. Her other significant film credits include “The Remains of the Day” (1993), “The Jungle Book” (1994), “Mrs. Dalloway” (1997), “Ripley’s Game” (2002), “Imagine Me & You” (2005), “Dredd” (2012), “The Purge” (2013) and “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies” (2016).
In addition to her film work, Headey has had a successful television career. She starred as Sarah Connor in the science fiction series “Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles” (2008-2009) and had recurring roles in the animated series “Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” (2018-2020) and “Infinity Train” (2019-2021). She has also lent her voice to various video games and animated series.
Lena Headey and Natalie Dormer (Game of Thrones)
Lena Headey’s personal life has seen its share of ups and downs. She was married to musician Peter Loughran from 2007 to 2013 and they have a son together. In 2015, she had a baby girl with Dan Cadan. They’ve been friends since childhood and worked together on a short film called “The Devil’s Wedding”. In 2022, she married actor Marc Menchaca.
Headey is known for her love of tattoos, with several inked on her body, each holding personal significance. She is also a vegetarian and practices yoga, a habit she picked up during her time in India. Despite her fame, she prefers to keep her personal life private, splitting her time between her homes in London and Los Angeles.
Game of Thrones is a sprawling epic fantasy drama centred around the fictional continent of Westeros, where powerful families vie for control of the Iron Throne. Amidst political intrigue, betrayal and shocking character deaths, the series intertwines multiple storylines, from the noble houses battling for supremacy to the looming threat of an ancient evil from beyond the Wall, as individuals fight for survival and power in a world where alliances are fragile and secrets hold deadly consequences.
Lena Headey’s portrayal of Cersei Lannister in Game of Thrones is a masterclass in villainy. Her performance is captivating as she embodies the complex and ruthless queen, driven by a thirst for power and a fierce loyalty to her family. Headey’s nuanced acting reveals Cersei’s vulnerability beneath her hardened exterior, making her a truly compelling and unforgettable character.
Top cast: Emilia Clarke, Iain Glen, Kit Harington, Peter Dinklage, Lena Headey, Sophie Turner, Maisie Williams, Conleth Hill, Alfie Allen, Richard Madden, Mark Addy.
Born: 30 December 1986, Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, England.
Faye Marsay grew up in a working-class family, with her father working as a steelworker and firefighter and her mother employed as a health service secretary. Her early years were spent in Loftus, where she attended Laurence Jackson School in Guisborough. Marsay later pursued her education at Prior Pursglove College before following her passion for acting at the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. During her time there, she performed in various productions, including “Hard Times” and “Macbeth”. Her exceptional talent earned her the Spotlight Prize in 2012, a significant milestone that launched her professional career.
Aneurin Barnard and Faye Marsay in The White Queen (2013)
Faye Marsay’s breakthrough role came in 2013 when she portrayed Anne Neville in the historical drama “The White Queen”. This performance garnered her widespread recognition and opened doors to other notable projects. She went on to star as Candice Pelling in the comedy-drama series “Fresh Meat” and as Steph in the critically acclaimed film “Pride”.
Her versatility as an actress was further showcased in her role as The Waif in the globally popular series “Game of Thrones”. Marsay also appeared in “Doctor Who”, “Black Mirror” and more recently, the “Star Wars” series “Andor”, where she played Vel Sartha.
Faye Marsay and Warren Brown in Ten Pound Poms (2023)
Despite her growing fame, Marsay has maintained a relatively private personal life. She has spoken candidly about her working-class roots and the challenges of adjusting to life in London. A passionate football fan, she once aspired to play professionally before an injury redirected her focus to acting. She is a supporter of Middlesbrough Football Club.
Ten Pound Poms is a historical drama following a group of British citizens who, lured by promises of a sunnier, more prosperous life, migrate to Australia in 1956 for the seemingly bargain price of ten pounds. The series paints a vivid picture of the harsh realities these ‘Poms’ encounter upon arrival, as they grapple with cultural shock, challenging working conditions and the complexities of building new lives far from home, ultimately revealing the bittersweet nature of their dream.
Top cast: Michelle Keegan, Faye Marsay, Warren Brown, Rob Collins, Leon Ford, Declan Cole.
Pride is a heartwarming yet poignant tale of unlikely solidarity. Set against the backdrop of 1984 Britain, a group of LGBTQ+ activists form a bond with a struggling Welsh mining community. Overcoming prejudice and skepticism, they unite in a shared fight for justice, challenging societal norms and discovering the power of human connection as they support each other through adversity. Based on a true story.
Top cast: George Mackay, Ben Schnetzer, Freddie Fox, Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton, Dominic West, Paddy Considine, Andrew Scott, Joseph Gilgun.
Love, Nina is a comedic drama following a young woman who leaves her small-town life to work as a nanny for a bohemian family in 1980s London. Navigating the eccentric household, the city’s vibrant culture and her own personal growth, Nina’s witty observations and endearing spirit offer a charming glimpse into a bygone era.
Top cast: Faye Marsay, Helena Bonham Carter, Jason Watkins, Joshua McGuire, Ethan Rouse, Harry Webster, Sam Frears, Selina Cadell.
The White Queen is a historical drama set against the backdrop of the Wars of the Roses, focusing on the lives of three powerful women: Elizabeth Woodville, a commoner who marries the king; Margaret Beaufort, a determined Lancastrian; and Anne Neville, a pawn in her father’s political game. Through their ambition, love and manipulation, these women traverse a world of treachery and violence, shaping the destiny of England as they battle for supremacy.
Top cast: Rebecca Ferguson, Max Irons, Amanda Hale, Janet McAteer, James Frain, Tom McKay, Faye Marsay, Juliet Aubrey, Aneurin Barnard.
“Hated in the Nation” delves into a near-future where society is deeply intertwined with social media. Detectives investigate a series of mysterious deaths linked to online hate, uncovering a sinister plot involving autonomous drones and the manipulation of public opinion. The episode serves as a chilling exploration of the dangerous potential of unchecked digital influence and the blurred lines between individual accountability and collective responsibility in the age of social media.
Top cast: Kelly Macdonald, Faye Marsay, Benedict Wong, Jonas Karlsson, Joe Armstrong, Elizabeth Berrington, Charles Babalola, Ben Miles, Esther Hall, Holli Dempsey.
Ronald Balfour Corbett, wasn’t your typical leading man. Diminutive in stature, Ronnie Corbett, as he was known, possessed an outsized talent for comedy that would propel him to become a household name in Britain.
Ronnie Corbett’s foray into the world of performance began in his youth. School productions and church youth club plays nurtured his love for the stage. Despite this early passion, his initial career path took a more conventional turn with a stint at the Ministry of Agriculture. However, the call of the spotlight proved too strong. National Service with the Royal Air Force, where he achieved commissioned officer status, provided a brief interruption, but upon discharge, Ronnie set his sights firmly on a career in entertainment.
The 1950s saw Corbett honing his comedic skills in the fertile ground of British variety shows. He found a niche on the popular children’s program “Crackerjack,” a mainstay for over three decades.
A pivotal moment arrived in 1966 when David Frost’s satirical show, “The Frost Report,” brought Ronnie together with another comedic talent, Ronnie Barker. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable. The duo’s witty sketches and hilarious banter resonated with audiences, laying the foundation for their future partnership.
Ronnie Corbett tells one of his rambling jokes
The 1970s marked the golden age of Ronnie Corbett. “The Two Ronnies,” a BBC sketch show that ran from 1971 to 1987, cemented their place in British comedy royalty. Corbett’s trademark monologues delivered from his trademark armchair, his bewildered exasperation at Barker’s antics and his endearingly self-deprecating humour became cultural touchstones. Their comedic range was vast, encompassing slapstick, wordplay and witty observations on British life.
Beyond “The Two Ronnies,” Corbett carved his own comedic path with sitcoms like “No – That’s Me Over Here!” and “Sorry!”. He also found success as a writer, contributing to various shows.
Ronnie Corbett’s personal life was a happy one. He married actress Anne Hart in 1965, and they remained together until his passing in 2016. The couple had three children – Sophie, Andrew and Emma. Despite his fame, Ronnie was known for his humility and kindness, cherished by his family, friends and colleagues.
Ronnie Corbett’s legacy lies in his ability to bring laughter into millions of homes. His diminutive stature belied a giant of British comedy. His work with Ronnie Barker remains a benchmark for sketch comedy, while his solo endeavours showcased his versatility and enduring appeal. Even today, his monologues and sketches continue to bring smiles, a testament to the enduring power of this comedic genius.
The Two Ronnies was a long-running sketch comedy show that tickled audiences with witty dialogue, slapstick humour and absurd scenarios. Two comedians, a tall and a short one, played various roles, from newsreaders with nonsensical headlines to characters in recurring spoof serials. Each episode offered a delightful mix of fast-paced skits, musical interludes and rambling anecdotes, all guaranteed to leave viewers chuckling.
Top cast: Ronnie Barker, Ronnie Corbett, John Owens.
Stuck at home with his overbearing mother, a timid librarian longs for love and independence. His attempts to woo a new love interest are hilariously derailed by his mum’s meddling, forcing him into an absurd situation. A secret opportunity for wealth arises but keeping it from his mother proves to be another comical challenge.
Top cast: Ronnie Corbett, Barbara Lott, William Moore, Marguerite Hardiman, Roy Holder, Derek Fuke, Wendy Allnutt.
The Frost Report, a satirical British comedy show from the 1960s, used sketches, monologues and songs to poke fun at everything from social class and current events to everyday annoyances. It launched the careers of comedy legends like John Cleese and Ronnie Barker, offering a sharp and witty commentary on British society through hilarious scenarios and absurd characters.
Top cast: David Frost, Ronnie Barker, Ronnie Corbett, John Cleese, Sheila Steafel, Julie Felix, Nicholas Smith, Tom Lehrer, Nicky Henson.
This sitcom follows a small but ambitious man coping with the daily grind. His train commutes are filled with awkward encounters with his pretentious neighbour and the office offers its own set of challenges. Despite a happy home life, his yearning for recognition at work and a touch of youthful coolness often leads him into comical situations. Through it all, his unwavering optimism and ability to land on his feet keep him going.
Top cast: Ronnie Corbett, Rosemary Leach, Henry McGee, Ivor Dean, Jill Mai Meredith, Michael Nightingale, Gillian Lind, Colin Baker.
A newlywed couple’s life takes a turn for the worse when a mail-order mishap floods their apartment with a seemingly endless supply of pornography. Their attempts to hide the growing mountain of X-rated material from the uptight bank manager who lives below, the wife’s strict father who also happens to be the manager’s boss and a suspicious police inspector lead to a chaotic series of near misses and desperate schemes, all fuelled by British propriety and a sprinkle of mild bawdiness.
Top cast: Ronnie Corbett, Beryl Reid, Arthur Lowe, Ian Ogilvy, Susan Penhaligon, Michael Bates, Cheryl Hall, David Swift, Deryck Guyler, Valerie Leon, Margaret Nolan.
A grumpy old general shepherds his equally eccentric family on a countryside picnic. The outing descends into hilarious chaos as mishaps unfold entirely through slapstick and sound effects. Imagine burnt sandwiches flung through the air, runaway picnic baskets careering down hills and a determined dog persistently chasing after a rogue sausage. Despite the mayhem, the family perseveres, their bond evident even amidst the comical pandemonium.
Top cast: Ronnie Barker, Ronnie Corbett, Julie Crosthwaite, Barbara New, Madge Hindle, Dennis Ramsden, Patricia Brake.
This comedy follows a boisterous family vacation at a traditional seaside resort. The trip is led by a blustering patriarch, with his long-suffering wife and a cast of quirky relatives in tow. Hijinks ensue as they enjoy the classic English seaside experience, from deckchair disasters to encounters with eccentric locals. Slapstick humour and visual gags take center stage, with plenty of seaside postcard references adding a touch of bawdy humour to the sunny chaos.
Top cast: Ronnie Barker, Ronnie Corbett, Barbara New, Madge Hindle, Debbi Blythe, Rikki Howard, Gerrie Raymond, John Brewer.
Neil Dudgeon attended Intake Secondary Modern and performed in school productions, such as “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead.” This early spark ignited a passion that led him to pursue a drama degree at the University of Bristol from 1979 to 1982.
Neil Dudgeon, Annette Badland and Nick Hendrix
Neil Dudgeon’s professional career began taking shape in the early 1990s. He landed roles in television series like “The Mrs. Bradley Mysteries” and “Patria,” showcasing his versatility in both period dramas and contemporary thrillers. He wasn’t afraid to delve into comedic territory either, as evidenced by his appearance in the 1994 film “Different for Girls.”
The year 1997 marked a significant turning point for Dudgeon as he became part of the cast of the now-beloved detective series “Midsomer Murders.” Although his first part in “Midsomer Murders” was rather small, a more significant opportunity lay ahead.
Neil Dudgeon and Fiona Dolman
John Nettles, the established lead detective in “Midsomer Murders,” announced he would be leaving the show. The producers faced the daunting task of finding a successor who could embody the spirit of the series while bringing their own unique touch. Enter Neil Dudgeon.
Neil Dudgeon was cast as Detective Chief Inspector John Barnaby, the cousin of Nettles’ character. He debuted in the 2011 episode “The Dark Rider,” and the audience embraced him with open arms. Dudgeon’s portrayal of Barnaby, with his dry wit and sharp mind, seamlessly blended with the show’s established formula of quirky characters and idyllic yet deadly villages.
Under Dudgeon’s leadership, “Midsomer Murders” has continued to thrive, maintaining its status as one of the most popular detective series in the world. He’s introduced a new dynamic to the series while respecting its established heritage.
Neil Dudgeon is married to Mary Peate, and together they have two children, Greta and Joe.
A wily detective tackles a string of murders plaguing the idyllic villages of a seemingly peaceful English county. Beneath the quaint exteriors lurk dark secrets and eccentric characters, making every resident a suspect as the detective investigates motives hidden amongst the roses and scones.
Top cast: John Nettles, Neil Dudgeon, Jane Wymark, Barry Jackson, Fiona Dolman, Jason Hughes, Laura Howard, Daniel Casey Sykes, Nick Hendrix, Kirsty Dillon, Annette Badland, Tamzin Malleson, Gwilym LeeJohn Hopkins, Manjinder Virk.
Ray Stevenson was the son of a Royal Air Force pilot in Northern Ireland but his early life pointed towards a more artistic path. He studied art and worked as an interior designer for a while. However, a spark ignited at the age of 25 when he saw a play featuring John Malkovich. This encounter rekindled a childhood dream of acting, leading him to enroll at the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Graduating at 29, Stevenson embarked on a journey that would see him become a formidable presence in both film and television.
Ray Stevenson and Kevin McKidd in Rome
Early roles included appearances in British TV shows and films. He gained international recognition with his portrayal of the loyal knight Dagonet in the 2004 film “King Arthur.” This paved the way for more prominent roles, but it was the HBO/BBC series “Rome” (2005-2007) that truly cemented his place as a captivating actor. Stevenson embodied the gruff yet endearing soldier Titus Pullo, a character who navigated the treacherous political and social landscape of the Roman Republic alongside his close friend Lucius Vorenus.
Following “Rome,” Stevenson continued to build a diverse filmography. He took on the iconic role of The Punisher in “Punisher: War Zone” (2008), a gritty portrayal of the anti-hero vigilante. He also lent his voice to characters in animated series and ventured into the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the boisterous warrior Volstagg in films like “Thor” (2011). But it was another television series, “Black Sails” (2014-2017), that further solidified his action hero status.
Ray Stevenson as Blackbeard in Black Sails
Set during the Golden Age of Piracy, “Black Sails”, Stevenson portrayed Blackbeard, a ruthless yet charismatic leader overseeing a world of power struggles, betrayal and constant threats from the British Empire. Stevenson brought a steely resolve and simmering intensity to the role of Blackbeard.
Beyond his career, Stevenson kept his personal life relatively private. He was married to actress Ruth Gemmell for eight years before their divorce in 2005. Later, he found love with Italian anthropologist Elisabetta Caraccia, with whom he had three sons.
Sadly, Ray Stevenson passed away in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of powerful performances that captivated audiences worldwide. Though his career was cut short, he will be forever remembered for his commanding presence and the raw honesty he brought to his characters.
A young housekeeper faces a series of challenges and romances. After a tragic proposal from her widowed employer, she finds herself caring for a farmer and his ailing wife. When another loss strikes, a mysterious new arrival inherits the farm, offering Emily a chance at a different kind of future. Through love, loss and unexpected turns of fate, Emily must find her own path amidst the ever-changing tides of life.
Top cast: Gillian Kearney, Ray Stevenson, James Purefoy, Leslie Schofield, Justin Chadwick, John Bowler, Mary Woodvine, Willie Ross.
In the Caribbean’s golden age of piracy, a ruthless captain and his crew fight for survival against a rising empire. They hunt a legendary Spanish galleon for treasure but face mutiny, betrayal and the constant threat of the navy, all while forging a fragile pirate republic.
Top cast: Toby Stephens, Hannah New, Luke Arnold, Jessica Parker Kennedy, Tom Hopper, Zach McGowan, Toby Schmitz, Clara Paget, Ray Stevenson.
Set against the fall of the Roman Republic, two legionaries witness history unfold. They traverse political schemes, social unrest and brutal wars, while their own lives intertwine with emperors, senators and the fight for power that will shape the future of Rome.
Top cast: Kevin McKidd, Ray Stevenson, Polly Walker, James Purefoy, Lindsay Duncan, Tobias Menzies, Kerry Condon, Simon Woods.
A teenage girl shoulders the responsibility of nine younger siblings after their parents die. Building a makeshift home, she fiercely protects her family while facing poverty, prejudice and a wealthy family’s unwanted attention.
Top cast: Tracy Whitwell, Lucy Cohu, Ray Stevenson, Philip Voss, James Fox, Julie Hesmondhalgh, Charles Pemberton, Leanne Bradford.
Thomas Sidney Jerome Sturridge, better known as Tom Sturridge, seemed destined for a life in the spotlight. His parents, actress Phoebe Nicholls and director Charles Sturridge, instilled a love for the arts from a young age. At just 11, Tom took his first steps onto the stage in a television adaptation of “Gulliver’s Travels,” directed by his father and co-starring his mother.
The Hollow Crown – Tom Sturridge plays Henry VI
Despite this early foray into acting, Tom Sturridge’s education followed a more traditional path. He attended the prestigious Harrodian School followed by Winchester College. However, the allure of performance proved too strong and Tom left Winchester before completing his A-Levels.
In 2004, at the age of 18, Tom re-emerged onto the screen with roles in “Vanity Fair” and “Being Julia.” The latter film, starring Annette Bening, showcased Tom’s talent alongside established Hollywood names.
Tom Sturridge’s career wasn’t limited to the silver screen. In 2013, he appeared on Broadway in the revival of “Orphans” with Alec Baldwin and Ben Foster, a role that earned him a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Play. Further recognition came in 2016 with a Laurence Olivier Award nomination for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for “American Buffalo.”
As “Dream” in The Sandman
One of Tom Sturridge’s finest performances came in 2016 when he played the role of King Henry VI in the BBC miniseries “The Hollow Crown”. This was a two-part adaptation of William Shakespeare’s Henry VI plays, specifically “Henry VI, Part 1” and “Henry VI, Part 2”.
More recently, Tom Sturridge has taken on the iconic role of Dream in the Netflix fantasy series “The Sandman,” based on the graphic novel series by Neil Gaiman. This role marks a significant shift towards genre work for Tom and has garnered positive critical reception.
In his personal life, Tom was engaged to actress Sienna Miller from 2011 to 2015. They have a daughter together, Marlowe Ottoline Layng Sturridge, who was born in 2012. Though their relationship ended, Tom has remained dedicated to co-parenting their daughter.
In rural England, a headstrong woman inherits a farm and navigates a love triangle with three very different suitors. A kind but persistent sheep farmer loses her heart, a reckless soldier brings fleeting passion and a wealthy bachelor offers stability. Through twists of fate, loss and hard work, she must choose between love, independence and the life she desires.
Top cast: Carey Mulligan, Tom Sturridge, Michael Sheen, Matthias Schoenaerts, Juno Temple, Jessica Barden, Harry Peacock, Hilton McRae, Bradley Hall.
Escaped from a decades-long imprisonment, the embodiment of dreams journeys to rebuild his crumbling realm. His quest for lost objects of power leads him through fantastical landscapes and confronts him with the consequences of his past, all while battling forces that threaten to spill chaos from the dreamscape into the waking world.
Top cast: Tom Sturridge, Boyd Holbrook, Patton Oswalt, Vivienne Acheampong, Kyo Ra, Mason Alexander Park, Razane Jammal, Sandra James-Young, David Thewlis, Nina Wadia, Jenna Coleman, Joely Richardson.
A young king inherits a fading war in France and a divided court. Power struggles between nobles escalate as a charismatic French leader rallies their forces. The king’s weak leadership and an unwise marriage fuel the growing tensions, leading to a brutal civil war that engulfs England.
Top cast: Anton Lesser, Tom Sturridge, Hugh Bonneville, Adrian Dunbar, Michael Gambon, Philip Glenister, Sally Hawkins, Ben Miles, Sophie Okonedo, Stanley Townsend, Jason Watkins, Samuel West.
The Man Who Crossed Hitler – Ed Stoppard and Ian Hart
Ed Stoppard inherited a creative spark from his lineage. His father, the legendary playwright Sir Tom Stoppard and his mother, Dr. Miriam Stoppard (née Stern), an author and physician, instilled a love for learning and self-expression in their son. Though raised in a secular household, Ed’s heritage is demonstrably Jewish, a fact reflected in some of his acting choices later in life.
Ed Stoppard’s early years were a blend of academic pursuits and a burgeoning interest in the arts. He attended Caldicott School, followed by Stowe School, a prestigious boarding institution. While excelling in his studies, Stoppard harboured a secret desire for the stage. Initially, his father, perhaps wary of the profession’s uncertainties, was not entirely supportive of this aspiration.
Claire Foy and Ed Stoppard in Upstairs Downstairs
Undeterred, Stoppard continued his education at the University of Edinburgh, graduating in 1997 with a degree in French. This seemingly non-theatrical path masked a deeper plan. After Edinburgh, Stoppard enrolled at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), a renowned institution that has nurtured countless acting talents.
Ed’s professional journey began in the early 2000s. A significant early role came in Roman Polanski’s harrowing Holocaust drama, “The Pianist” (2002). Playing a Jewish victim caught in the horrors of World War II resonated deeply with Stoppard, perhaps due to his own family background.
The Frankenstein Chronicles – Ed Stoppard and Vanessa Kirby
Throughout the following years, Stoppard carved a niche for himself in both film and television. He appeared in diverse projects like the biopic “Tchaikovsky” (2007), the miniseries adaptation of Evelyn Waugh’s classic novel “Brideshead Revisited” (2008), and historical documentaries such as “Ancient Rome: The Rise and Fall of an Empire” (2006). Stoppard’s ability to seamlessly transition between historical dramas and contemporary pieces like the British political drama “The Politician’s Husband” (2013) solidified his reputation as a dependable and talented actor.
Television offered Ed Stoppard a platform for extended character development. He portrayed Sir Daniel Hervey in the chilling period thriller “The Frankenstein Chronicles” (2015-2017), and later embodied Lemay, the court physician, in the swashbuckling adventure series “The Musketeers” (2014). More recently, Stoppard’s credits include appearances in the dystopian drama “Brave New World” (2020) and the historical miniseries “The Princess” (2022).
He is married to Amie Stoppard and the couple have three daughters: Evie, Esm and Maggie.
In this docudrama, a conductor travels to Russia, the homeland of the enigmatic composer Tchaikovsky. He delves into the musician’s life, shrouded in mystery, seeking to understand the man behind the timeless symphonies and ballets.
Top cast: Ed Stoppard, Charles Hazlewood, William Mannering, Gyuri Sarossy, Alice Glover Sam Marks, Martin Parr.
A young Jewish lawyer in 1930s Germany takes a daring stand against the rising Nazi party by subpoenaing Hitler himself to expose the violent core of the ideology behind the charismatic leader’s mask of legitimacy.
Top cast: Ed Stoppard, Ian Hart, Bill Paterson, Sarah Smart, Anton Lesser, John Hollingworth, Ronan Vibert, Ruth McCabe, Will Keen.
In foggy 19th century London, a haunted police inspector investigates a series of gruesome murders, uncovering a conspiracy that links stolen body parts, scientific advancements and a possible attempt to cheat death itself.
Top cast: Sean Bean, Richie Campbell, Tom Ward, Ed Stoppard, Vanessa Kirby, Samuel West, Robbie Gee, Eloise Smyth.
In 1936 London, a former servant returns to a grand townhouse to manage a new family and their staff, facing the changing social tides against the backdrop of rising fascism and a nation on the brink of war.
Top cast: Keeley Hawes, Ed Stoppard, Adrian Scarborough, Neil Jackson, Anne Reid, Claire Foy, Art Malik, Ellie Kendrick.
Phyllis Hannah Bickle, known professionally as Phyllis Calvert, artistic journey began on the stage. From a young age, she trained at the Margaret Morris School of Dancing, aiming for a career as a dancer. However, an injury forced her to pivot towards acting, a shift that would shape British cinema for decades to come.
Fanny by Gaslight – Stewart Granger and Phyllis Calvert
Despite the setback, Calvert began performing professionally at the age of ten. She even shared the stage with the legendary Ellen Terry in the 1925 production of “Crossings.” This early exposure to the world of theatre instilled in her a deep love for the craft. Her film debut followed soon after, with a small role in “The Arcadians” (1927) at the age of twelve.
Phyllis Calvert developed her skills further by performing in repertory theatre companies in Malvern and Coventry. These experiences allowed her to develop a strong foundation in acting techniques and stage presence. Her big break came in 1939 with her London stage debut in “A Woman’s Privilege.” This success paved the way for a flourishing film career.
The Man in Grey – Rohan (James Mason) and Clarissa (Phyllis Calvert)
The 1940s marked Calvert’s rise to stardom. She became a leading lady in the Gainsborough melodramas, entrancing audiences with her elegance and emotional range. Films like “The Man in Grey” (1943) and “Fanny by Gaslight” (1944) established her as a major box office draw.
In “Mandy” (1952), she gave a poignant portrayal of a mother struggling with her deaf daughter’s communication challenges. This film earned her a BAFTA nomination, solidifying her critical acclaim.
Hollywood beckoned in the late 1940s, but Calvert ultimately chose to return to England. Family life became a priority after she married actor and bookseller Peter Murray-Hill in 1941. The couple had two children, and Calvert balanced motherhood with a thriving stage career throughout the 1960s and 1970s.
Phyllis Calvert and Mandy Miller in Mandy
Television also became a platform for Calvert’s talent. She entertained audiences in series like “Little Women” (1958) and “Kate” (1970). Her career continued well into her later years, with appearances in shows like “Midsomer Murders” (2000) demonstrating her enduring presence on screen.
Phyllis Calvert remained married to Peter Murray-Hill until his passing in 1957. She continued to act for another 45 years, leaving behind a legacy of over 40 films and countless stage performances. When she passed away peacefully in 2002 at the age of 87, she was remembered as an actress who graced both the silver screen and the stage, captivating audiences for over seven decades.
In Victorian London, a young woman’s world crumbles when she discovers a shocking family secret. Thrust into a life she never imagined, she tackles betrayal, loss and a fight for survival, all while finding an unexpected love that offers a chance for redemption.
Top cast: Phyllis Calvert, James Mason, Wilfrid Lawson, Stewart Granger, Jean Kent, Margaretta Scott, Nora Swinburne, Cathleen Nesbitt.
A young deaf girl struggles to connect with a world that doesn’t understand her silence. Her parents clash over the best way to help her, with her mother fighting for specialised education and her father clinging to traditional methods. Ultimately, the family sacrifices everything for Mandy’s chance to speak and find her place in the world.
Top cast: Phyllis Calvert, Jack Hawkins, Terence Morgan, Godfrey Tearle, Mandy Miller, Marjorie Fielding, Nancy Price, Edward Chapman, Patricia Plunkett, Eleanor Summerfield.
Three sisters, bound by love but shaped by different choices, embark on vastly different marital journeys. One finds happiness, another seeks solace in infidelity, while the third endures the emotional torment of an abusive husband, highlighting the complexities of love and the enduring bond of sisterhood.
Top cast: James Mason, Phyllis Calvert, Hugh Sinclair, Anne Crawford, Peter Murray-Hill, Dulcie Gray, Barry Livesey, Pamela Mason, Ann Stephens.
Haunted by a past trauma, a seemingly respectable wife grapples with a hidden dual identity. Torn between her loving family life and a passionate affair fuelled by her repressed desires, her secret threatens to unravel as her past collides with the present.
Top cast: Phyllis Calvert, Stewart Granger, Patricia Roc, Peter Glenville, John Stuart, Reginald Tate, Peter Murray-Hill, Dulcie Gray, Alan Haines.
During WWII, a French internment camp for British women becomes a hive of subterfuge. The resourceful inmates band together, hiding downed Allied airmen and devising a daring escape plan, defying their Nazi captors with courage and resilience.
Top cast: Phyllis Calvert, Flora Robson, Patricia Roc, Renee Houston, Reginald Purdell, Anne Crawford, Jean Kent, James McKechnie, Robert Arden, Carl Jaffe, Muriel Aked.
A scorned woman motiivated by revenge uses her cunning to build a rival business, aiming to destroy the wealthy family who wronged her. But love and unexpected consequences threaten to complicate her ruthless pursuit of vengeance.
Top cast: Phyllis Calvert, Michael Rennie, John McCallum, Brefni O’Rorke, Moore Marriott, Hazel Court, Arthur Young, Reginald Purdell, Hubert Gregg, Stewart Rome, George Carney, Diana Decker.
An oblivious British heiress accidentally throws away a painting revered by a local Italian village. Facing their wrath, she embarks on a whirlwind adventure to retrieve the “lucky” Madonna, encountering a charming American and confronting the power of superstition and cultural beliefs.
Top cast: Phyllis Calvert, Michael Rennie, Tullio Carminati, Aldo Silvani, Pippo Bonucci, Francesca Biondi, Franco Coop, Claudio Ermelli.
A successful aircraft manufacturer’s world spirals out of control after a deadly confrontation with his daughter’s boyfriend. To cover his tracks, he embarks on a desperate northwards journey, haunted by guilt and the ever-present fear of his crime being exposed.
Top cast: John Mills, Phyllis Calvert, Eileen Moore, Sam Wanamaker, Herbert Lom, Raymond Huntley, Russell Waters, Wilfrid Hyde-White, Bernard Lee.
Suffering from amnesia after a wartime bombing, a young woman grapples to piece together her past. With the help of a kind doctor and a blossoming romance, she rebuilds her life, but the secrets she left behind threaten to shatter the happiness she’s found.
Top cast: Phyllis Calvert, Edward Underdown, Helen Cherry, Richard Burton, Anthony Nicholls, James Hayter, Betty Ann Davies, Amy Veness, Patrick Troughton.
In a loveless marriage, a young wife finds herself entangled in a web of deceit when her husband falls for her friend. As their desires clash and hidden pasts rise to the surface, a passionate love triangle unfolds, threatening to shatter their carefully constructed lives.
Top cast: Margaret Lockwood, Phyllis Calvert, James Mason, Stewart Granger, Harry Scott, Beatrice Varley, Martita Hunt, Helen Hayes, Raymond Lovell.
Susannah York’s early life was split between London and rural Scotland after her parents’ divorce and this instilled in her a quiet determination. This resolve propelled her towards the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, where she graduated in 1958, winning the Ronson Award for most promising student.
The Greengage Summer – Susannah York, Kenneth More and Jane Asher
Susannah York’s career began in the early 1960s, and she was initially cast in roles that capitalised on her striking good looks – the blonde ingénue. Films like “Tunes of Glory” (1960) showcased her beauty, but York possessed a depth that yearned for more complex characters.
This desire was evident in “The Greengage Summer” (1961), where she played a schoolgirl awakening to her power. The turning point, however, came in 1963 with the bawdy period romp “Tom Jones.” As the spirited Sophie Western, York entranced audiences with her comedic timing and undeniable sensuality. The film’s international success catapulted her to stardom.
A Man for All Seasons – Susannah York and Paul Scofield
York refused to be typecast. She balanced her newfound fame with challenging dramatic roles. In “Freud: The Secret Passion” (1962), she portrayed a troubled patient, showcasing her emotional range. Her portrayal of Sir Thomas More’s daughter in “A Man for All Seasons” (1966) earned her critical acclaim, further solidifying her reputation as a serious actress. York also embraced the burgeoning counterculture, appearing in films like “They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?” (1969), a searing indictment of the Depression-era dance marathons.
The 1970s saw York venture beyond film. She triumphed on television with a critically acclaimed performance as Jane Eyre in the 1970 miniseries. This decade also witnessed her foray into directing and writing, notably, she penned the children’s books “In Search of Unicorns” and “Lark’s Castle,” displaying a whimsical side to her creativity.
Susannah York in Sands of the Kalahari
York’s career continued to flourish in the following decades. She tackled diverse roles, from a troubled housewife in “Happy Birthday, Wanda June” (1971) to a ruthless maid in “The Maids” (1975). Interestingly, she even played Superman’s biological mother, Lara, in three Superman films, a testament to her versatility.
Susannah York’s personal life was relatively private. Married to writer Michael Wells from 1959 to 1980, she raised two children. Despite the demands of her career, she remained a devoted mother.
Susannah York passed away in 2011, leaving behind a rich legacy. Her career, spanning over five decades, is a testament to her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to her craft.
A family vacation in France takes a turn when the mother falls ill, letting loose a group of unsupervised siblings in a quirky hotel and their own burgeoning emotions. Jealousy flares as the eldest daughter grapples with newfound desires and a charming hotel guest, while a younger sister contends with her own romantic awakening.
Top cast: Kenneth More, Danielle Darrieux, Susannah York, Claude Nollier, Jane Asher, Raymond Gérôme, Maurice Denham, Harold Kasket, André Maranne.
A charming rogue with a mischievous grin, an illegitimate son cast out by his benefactor, embarks on a whirlwind of bawdy adventures. From sword fights to mistaken identities, he pursues his one true love while dodging disapproving authority figures and a string of amorous encounters.
Top cast: Albert Finney, Susannah York, George Devine, Rachel Kempson, Angela Baddeley, Joyce Redman, Jack MacGowran, Diane Cilento.
An orphaned Jane endures a harsh childhood before finding solace as a governess. There, a passionate bond blossoms with her brooding employer, but a shocking secret threatens their happiness. Forced to flee, Jane embarks on a journey of self-discovery, ultimately leading her back to confront her past and fight for her future.
Top cast: George C. Scott, Susannah York, Ian Bannen, Rachel Kempson, Nyree Dawn Porter, Jack Hawkins, Kenneth Griffith, Peter Copley.
A clash of conscience erupts when a steadfast man of principle, facing a powerful king’s demands, must choose between his faith and the safety of his family, risking everything to stand by his beliefs.
Top cast: Paul Scofield, Wendy Hiller, Leo McKern, Robert Shaw, Orson Welles, Susannah York, Nigel Davenport, John Hurt, Vanessa Redgrave.
Resentment explodes when a gruff, old-school Scottish regiment leader clashes with his refined, newly appointed replacement. Their contrasting styles and approaches to discipline threaten to tear the battalion apart, forcing both men to confront their own vulnerabilities.
Top cast: Alec Guinness, John Mills, Susannah York, Dennis Price, Kay Walsh, John Fraser, Gordon Jackson, Duncan Macrae.
A quiet English village is upended by the arrival of American airmen during WWII. Culture clashes and forbidden romances ignite as the locals grapple with wartime anxieties, forging unlikely bonds amidst the backdrop of a global conflict.
Top cast: Susannah York, Michael Shannon, Patrick O’Connell, Lynne Pearson, James Saxon, Lou Hirsch, Patrick Pearson, Kathryn Pogson, Ray Smith, June Barry, Lise Ann McLaughlin, Ed Devereaux.
Two sisters, fueled by resentment, transform their wealthy employer’s absence into a twisted game of domination and rebellion. Through elaborate dress-up and fantasies of murder, they blur the lines between reality and desire, leading to a climax that exposes their simmering rage.
Top cast: Glenda Jackson, Susannah York, Vivien Merchant, Mark Burns.
A plane crash strands a group in the unforgiving Kalahari. While some fight for survival, a cunning manipulator plots to eliminate them one by one, seeking a solitary Eden with the lone woman survivor.
To cast: Stanley Baker, Susannah York, Stuart Whitman, Harry Andrews, Theodore Bikel, Nigel Davenport.
A secluded couple’s life is shattered by a mysterious visitor claiming mastery of a deadly shout. As paranoia and suspicion fester, the visitor’s chilling influence tests the couple’s bond and sanity, forcing a desperate fight for survival against an unseen threat.
Top cast: Alan Bates, Susannah York, John Hurt, Robert Stephens, Tim Curry, Julian Hough, Carol Drinkwater, John Rees, Jim Broadbent, Peter Benson.
Born: 24 October 1971, Churchtown, Dublin, Ireland.
Dervla Kirwan, youngest of three daughters, was raised by an insurance broker father and a language teacher mother. Loreto Beaufort, a Catholic school, witnessed her early talents, but her burgeoning acting career led to her departure at 16. Completing her education at Sandymount High School, Kirwan’s dedication to her craft was evident.
Stephen Tompkinson and Dervla Kirwan in Ballykissangel
The 1990s proved to be a breakout decade for Kirwan. British television became her stomping ground. Audiences were captivated by her portrayal of the feisty Phoebe Bamford in the popular sitcom “Goodnight Sweetheart.” The show’s success not only established her comedic talent but also surprised viewers with her flawless cockney accent, a testament to her impressive range. This was followed by the heartwarming drama “Ballykissangel,” where she co-starred with Stephen Tompkinson. Their on-screen chemistry resonated with fans, earning Kirwan a National Television Award and solidifying her status as a rising star.
Goodnight Sweetheart – Nicholas Lyndhurst and Dervla Kirwan
Throughout the 2000s, Dervla Kirwan continued to grace British television screens. She tackled diverse roles in “Hearts and Bones,” “55 Degrees North” and the miniseries “True Dare Kiss,” further demonstrating her adaptability. Forays into film included the critically acclaimed “Ondine,” a performance that won her an Irish Film & Television Award (IFTA).
Dervla Kirwan is married to fellow actor Rupert Penry-Jones and they have two children. Beyond acting, Kirwan is a skilled musician, adept at playing an impressive array of instruments, including the piano, saxophone and violin.
A family celebration on the windswept Irish coast turns deadly when the husband is found dead at the foot of a cliff. His grieving wife, suspecting foul play, looks into the hidden resentments within her family, uncovering secrets that blur the lines between accident and murder.
An idealistic young English priest clashes with a fiery pub owner and a gruff superior in a charming Irish village, grappling with cultural differences, small-town secrets and the blossoming of unlikely friendships and desires.
Top cast: Stephen Tompkinson, Dervla Kirwan, Frankie McCafferty, Joe Savino, Deirdre Donnelly, Gary Whelan, Áine Ní Mhuirí, Niall Toibin, Tina Kellegher, Tony Doyle, Peter Hanly, Bosco Hogan, Lorcan Cranitch, Victoria Smurfit.
A London man stumbles upon a mysterious time portal, allowing him to travel between the 1990s and World War II-era Britain. As he leads a double life, juggling relationships in both timelines, he faces humorous and emotional dilemmas. Torn between love and loyalty, he must oversee history while hiding his secret.
Top cast: Nicholas Lyndhurst, Dervla Kirwan, Victor McGuire, Christopher Ettridge, Elizabeth Carling, Emma Amos, Michelle Holmes.
A London detective, exiled for exposing corruption, finds himself demoted to the night shift in a gritty northern city. Despite clashing with his new colleagues and a demanding boss, his sharp mind and sense of justice lead him to tackle complex cases.
Top cast: Don Gilet, Dervla Kirwan, Andrew Dunn, George Harris, Mark Stobbart, Michael Hodgson, Darren Morfitt, Emma Cleasby.
The Moonraker – George Baker, Sylvia Syms and Peter Arne
George Baker was born in Varna, Bulgaria, to British parents who were living in the country at the time. His family later moved back to England when he was a young child, where he spent his formative years. Growing up, Baker developed a keen interest in acting and theatre, which would eventually shape his future career.
Ruth Rendell Mysteries – Sean Pertwee, George Baker and Christopher Ravenscroft
George Baker attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). Armed with a solid foundation in acting, Baker set out to make his mark in the world of film and television.
In addition to his success in film, George Baker also made a name for himself in television, with a career spanning several decades. One of his most iconic roles was that of Inspector Wexford in the long-running British television series “The Ruth Rendell Mysteries.” Baker’s portrayal of the astute and perceptive detective earned him widespread recognition and credit for his work on the show.
A seasoned detective tackles perplexing crimes in a small British town, discovering hidden motives and unravelling dark secrets. Adapted from the works of Ruth Rendell, each episode presents a new puzzle for the inspector Wexford to solve, examining the psyches of both victims and perpetrators.
Top cast: George Baker, Christopher Ravenscroft, Louie Ramsay, Ken Kitson, Diane Keen, John Burgess, Emma Smith, Noah Huntley, Deborah Poplett, Dave Hill.
An under-estimated scholar recounts his rise to power in a ruthless Roman dynasty. Ridiculed for his disability, he witnesses the palace’s web of intrigue firsthand, from his ambitious grandmother’s manipulations to the madness of emperors.
Top cast: Derek Jacobi, Siân Phillips, Brian Blessed, George Baker, Margaret Tyzack, John Hurt, Patricia Quinn, Patrick Stewart.
In the chaos following the English civil war, a disguised nobleman helps the defeated prince escape ruthless pursuers. His daring plan and hidden identity as a rebellious rogue put both him and the prince in constant danger as they fight for freedom on the open road.
Top cast: George Baker, Sylvia Syms, Marius Goring, Peter Arne, Clive Morton, Gary Raymond, Richard LeechIris Russell.
Richard Rankin, the son of a police officer and a hotel industry worker, a young Rankin envisioned a future in the sciences or Information Technology. However, a life-altering trip to Los Angeles at the age of 21 sparked a passion for acting, leading him to pursue professional training the following year.
Rankin’s early career was learnt on the Scottish stage. He found success in the sketch show “Burnistoun,” displaying his comedic timing and ability to embody diverse characters. This experience was further bolstered by his participation in the Olivier Award-winning play “Black Watch” with the National Theatre of Scotland. The play, which explored the experiences of Scottish soldiers in Iraq, provided Rankin with a platform to showcase his dramatic range.
A pivotal moment arrived in 2014 with the miniseries “The Crimson Field.” Rankin’s portrayal of the courageous Captain Thomas Gillan garnered him national attention. This success opened doors to prominent roles in various BBC productions, including the crime drama “Silent Witness,” the lottery-themed series “The Syndicate,” and the psychological thriller “Thirteen.”
Richard Rankin, Caitríona Balfe and Sophie Skelton in Outlander
In 2016, Rankin landed the role that would propel him to international recognition: Roger Wakefield in the Starz drama “Outlander.” Based on Diana Gabaldon’s novels, “Outlander” follows Claire Randall, a 20th-century nurse who travels back in time to 18th-century Scotland. Roger, a historian searching for his ancestors, becomes romantically entangled with Claire and her highlander husband, Jamie Fraser. Rankin’s portrayal of Roger, a man grappling with displacement and love in a bygone era, resonated with audiences worldwide. The role not only earned him critical acclaim but also solidified his place as a leading man in television.
Richard Rankin as DS John Rebus
In a casting coup, 2023 saw Richard Rankin land the iconic role of Detective Sergeant John Rebus in a new adaptation of Ian Rankin’s novels.
Richard Rankin is an active social media user, he offers glimpses into his love for board games, reading and the occasional indulgence in pizza. A self-proclaimed thrill-seeker, he enjoys climbing and embraces challenges. While not much is known about his romantic relationships, his on-screen chemistry with co-star Sophie Skelton in “Outlander” continues to capture the hearts of fans.
Suggested viewing
Rebus (2024)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.3
A gruff Edinburgh detective with a checkered past wrestles with a violent criminal underworld, all while a personal connection to the case throws his morals into question. This gritty reboot tackles complex crimes and hidden demons, offering a fresh take on a beloved literary character.
Top cast: Richard Rankin, Brian Ferguson, Lucie Shorthouse, Amy Manson, Stuart Bowman, Caroline Lee-Johnson, Noof Ousellam, Neshla Caplan, Thoren Ferguson, Aston McAuley, Michelle Duncan, Michelle Duncan, Sean Buchanan.
Similar to
Outlander (2014)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.4
Thrown back in time by mysterious stones, a 20th-century nurse finds herself entangled in 18th-century Scotland’s rebellion. Torn between her modern life and a passionate Highlander, she faces a world of danger and romance, forever altered by her time-travelling fate.
Top cast: Caitríona Balfe, Sam Heughan, Sophie Skelton, Richard Ranking, John Bell, Tobias Menzies, Graham McTavish, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Laura Donnelly, Bill Paterson, Duncan Lacroix.
David Niven, the future Hollywood icon hailed from a well-to-do London family. Though destined for a military path, attending prestigious schools like Sandhurst, a young Niven harboured a secret desire – acting. This dream simmered beneath the surface of his regimented education, finally bubbling over when he landed a bit part as an extra in a British film. The taste of the stage proved irresistible, and Niven, with a touch of his trademark debonair charm, resigned his commission and set sail for Hollywood in 1933.
Kim Hunter and David Niven in A Matter of Life and Death
Early days in Hollywood were a struggle. Niven, with his upper-class British background, found himself typecast in minor roles. Yet, his persistence and undeniable charisma began to shine through. Films like “Dawn Patrol” (1938) and “Wuthering Heights” (1939) showcased his talent, establishing him as a reliable leading man, particularly adept at light comedies.
His career trajectory was interrupted by World War II. Answering the call of duty, Niven rejoined the British Army, this time serving with distinction in commando units. His wartime experiences, marked by bravery and leadership, would forever temper his on-screen persona.
After the war, Niven returned to Hollywood a changed man. While his comedic timing remained impeccable, as seen in films like “The Pink Panther” (1963), a newfound depth emerged in his performances. He tackled dramatic roles with aplomb, most notably in “Separate Tables” (1958). This brilliant portrayal of a down-on-his-luck Major earned him an Academy Award.
Peter Sellers and David Niven in a The Pink Panther promo
Niven’s personal life was as colourful as his film career. Married twice, he fathered four children. Despite the trappings of Hollywood stardom, he remained grounded, his dry wit and self-deprecating humour earning him a reputation as a charming raconteur. He penned several memoirs, including the bestselling “The Moon’s a Balloon,” offering a glimpse into his life beyond the silver screen.
David Niven’s legacy extends far beyond his awards and box office success. He embodied a certain kind of British gentleman – witty, sophisticated and ever so slightly self-deprecating. His war service added a layer of gravitas, making him a true leading man in every sense of the word. Whether charming audiences in comedies or delivering powerful dramatic performances, David Niven left an indelible mark on Hollywood history. Even after his passing in 1983, his films continue to entertain and inspire, a testament to the enduring talent of this remarkable actor.
World War II transforms a group of ordinary civilians into soldiers. Under a strict but supportive officer, they overcome their initial resistance and forge a bond. Shipped to North Africa, these unlikely comrades face the ultimate test of their newfound courage and loyalty.
Top cast: David Niven, Stanley Holloway, James Donald, John Laurie, Leslie Dwyer, Hugh Burden, Jimmy Hanley, William Hartnell, Reginald Tate, Leo Genn.
A bomber pilot, presumed dead, finds himself inexplicably alive and falls for a radio operator. A heavenly error leads to a celestial trial where he must plead his case, using love and the beauty of life as his defence.
Top cast: David Niven, Kim Hunter, Robert Coote, Kathleen Byron, Richard Attenborough, Bonar Colleano, Joan Maude, Marius Goring, Roger Livesey, Raymond Massey.
Visionary designer (R. J. Mitchell), facing illness, races against time to create a revolutionary fighter plane. His dedication inspires pilots who, wielding this technological marvel, become the bulwark against an encroaching enemy.
Top cast: Leslie Howard, David Niven, Rosamund John, Roland Culver, Anne Firth, David Horne, J.H. Roberts, Derrick De Marney, Rosalyn Boulter.
A desperate mission: a crack team of specialists, including a reluctant bomb expert and a gruff Greek captain, infiltrate a heavily fortified island. Their objective: silence the powerful guns that threaten a vital Allied rescue operation, all while facing danger, betrayal and the ticking clock of war.
Top cast: David Niven, Gregory Peck, Anthony Quinn, Anthony Quayle, Stanley Baker, James Darren, Irene Papas, Gia Scala, James Robertson Justice, Richard Harris.
Stranded in the Ethiopian desert during WWII, a resourceful British major and a cunning Italian captain, on opposing sides of the conflict, develop an unlikely camaraderie amidst the harsh landscape, forced to rely on each other for survival.
Top cast: David Niven, Alberto Sordi, Amedeo Nazzari, Michael Wilding, Harry Andrews, David Opatoshu, Aldo Giuffrè.
A bumbling French inspector races to snag a notorious jewel thief targeting a priceless pink diamond. Their pursuit unfolds amidst romantic intrigue and hilarious blunders, with the fate of the gem and the inspector’s career hanging in the balance.
Top cast: Peter Sellers, David Niven, Robert Wagner, Capucine, Brenda de Banzie, Colin Gordon, John Le Mesurier, James Lanphier.
A harried movie star seeks refuge in a quiet Italian village, only to be unknowingly auctioned off as the prize in a global lottery for marriage. As a whirlwind of female admirers descends, he finds himself falling for someone unexpected, leading to a scramble for true love.
Top cast: David Niven, Peggy Cummins, Anne Vernon, Herbert Lom, Charles Victor, Gordon Jackson, Felix Aylmer, Hugh McDermott.
Born: 8 April 1944, Garnant, Carmarthenshire, Wales.
The Family Way – Hywel Bennett, John Mills and Hayley Mills
Hywel Bennett was a charismatic Welsh actor who left his mark on both the silver screen and the living room. His journey began in a Welsh-speaking household, but a move to South London at the age of four introduced him to the “London-Welsh” accent that would later grace his performances. Bennett wasn’t alone in his artistic aspirations; his brother, Alun Lewis, would also find success as an actor.
Education played a pivotal role in shaping Bennett’s career. Sunnyhill School, Henry Thornton Grammar School, and finally, the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) developed his skills and prepared him for the competitive world of acting. RADA, which has produced countless stars, served as a launchpad for Bennett, equipping him with the technical expertise and confidence to compete in the demanding world of professional acting.
Twisted Nerve – Hayley Mills and Hywel Bennett
Hywel Bennett’s breakthrough came in 1966 with the film “The Family Way.” Playing opposite the effervescent Hayley Mills, he earned critical acclaim for his portrayal of a young man struggling with the complexities of marriage and parenthood. This success wasn’t a one-off. He and Mills would reunite for two more films, “Twisted Nerve” (1968) and “Endless Night” (1972), solidifying their on-screen chemistry and establishing Bennett as a star.
The 1970s saw Bennett flourish in a variety of film roles, showcasing his versatility. He played a charming rogue in “Loot” (1970) and a troubled artist in “Percy” (1971). However, it was television that would propel him to national recognition. In 1979, he landed the lead role in the sitcom “Shelley.” The show, which ran for an impressive thirteen years, cemented Bennett’s place in British pop culture. He played James Shelley, a witty and sardonic writer with a penchant for finding himself in hilarious situations. “Shelley” became a national treasure, with Bennett’s performance a cornerstone of its success.
Shelley – Hywel Bennett, Belinda Sinclair and Josephine Tewson
Beyond his professional life, Bennett’s personal life was a mixed bag. He was married twice, first to singer Cathy McGowan and later to Sandra Layne Fulford. He had a daughter, Emma Bennett, who remained largely out of the public eye. Sadly, in 2007, Bennett was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect, forcing him to retire from acting. He passed away ten years later, on July 25th, 2017, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and memorable characters.
Hywel Bennett’s career serves as a testament to the transformative power of acting. From his Welsh roots to the bright lights of London, he carved a niche for himself, bringing humour and depth to a multitude of roles. While his career was tragically cut short, his performances in films like “The Family Way” and his iconic portrayal of James Shelley in “Shelley” continue to entertain audiences today.
A sardonic, perpetually unemployed intellectual with a doctorate degree finds himself in constant clashes with authority figures and struggles to keep his girlfriend and landlady happy, all while grappling with the absurdities of everyday life.
Top cast: Hywel Bennett, Belinda Sinclair, Josephine Tewson.
Honeymoon plans dashed, a young couple finds themselves living with the husband’s parents. Coping with cramped quarters and their own anxieties, they wrestle with intimacy and the humorous hurdles of starting a family.
Top cast: Hayley Mills, Hywel Bennett, Barry Foster, Avril Angers, John Comer, Wilfred Pickles, John Mills, Marjorie Rhodes, Murray Head, Liz Fraser, Thorley Walters.
A disturbed young man concocts a twisted plan to befriend a woman, adopting a childlike persona to gain her trust. As his obsession deepens and his true nature emerges, a deadly game of manipulation and murder unfolds.
Top cast: Hayley Mills, Hywel Bennett, Billie Whitelaw, Phyllis Calvert, Barry Foster, Frank Finlay, Salmaan Peerzada, Christian Roberts, Gretchen Franklin, Thorley Walters.
A dream home built on supposedly cursed land becomes a nightmare for a newlywed couple. As strange occurrences plague them and suspicions arise, they must uncover the truth and fight for their lives amidst a chilling mystery. Based on the novel by Agatha Christie.
Top cast: Hayley Mills, Hywel Bennett, Britt Ekland, Per Oscarsson, George Sanders, Aubrey Richards, Ann Way, Peter Bowles, Lois Maxwell.
Born: 16 May 1953, Drogheda, County Louth, Ireland.
Pierce Brosnan lived a childhood marked by change. His father left the family soon after his birth and his mother emigrated to England for work when he was four. Raised by his grandparents in Ireland, Brosnan developed a deep connection to his homeland. This bicultural upbringing would later lend authenticity to his portrayal of characters from both backgrounds.
Die Another Day – Toby Stephens, Rosamund Pike, Madonna and Pierce Brosnan
At 15, Brosnan’s artistic spirit blossomed. He ventured to London, enrolling in drama classes at The Drama Centre London, where he diligently studied the art of acting. It was during this period that fate intervened. He met Cassandra Harris, an actress who would become his first wife. Together, they relocated to the United States, opening doors to new opportunities.
Brosnan’s television debut arrived in the early 1980s with a recurring role in the detective series “Remington Steele.” His charm and charisma captivated audiences, particularly in the American market. This success paved the way for his most iconic role – James Bond.
Sophie Marceau and Pierce Brosnan in The World Is Not Enough
Originally considered for the role in the 1980s, Brosnan’s contractual obligations prevented him from taking on the mantle of 007. However, destiny had other plans. In 1995, he finally stepped into the tuxedo of the suave secret agent in “GoldenEye.” Brosnan’s portrayal was a perfect blend of sophistication, humour and action, reigniting public interest in the franchise. He went on to star in three more Bond films – “Tomorrow Never Dies,” “The World Is Not Enough,” and “Die Another Day” – solidifying his place in cinematic history.
Rene Russo and Pierce Brosnan – The Thomas Crown Affair
Beyond Bond, Brosnan’s filmography boasts a rich tapestry of roles. He showcased his dramatic talents in films like “The Matador” and “The Ghost Writer.” He revisited lighter themes in romantic comedies such as “The Thomas Crown Affair” and “Laws of Attraction.” Brosnan also actively produced films through his own company, Irish DreamTime, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit.
Personal life, however, brought both joy and sorrow. Brosnan’s first wife, Cassandra Harris, sadly passed away from ovarian cancer in 1991. He adopted her children, Charlotte and Christopher, raising them as his own. In 2001, he found love again with Keely Shaye Smith, with whom he has two sons, Dylan and Paris. Tragedy struck again in 2013 with the loss of his daughter, Charlotte, to the same illness that claimed her mother.
Through it all, Brosnan has remained a pillar of strength and resilience. He is a vocal advocate for environmental causes and actively supports cancer research charities.
Pierce Brosnan’s journey, from a young boy in Ireland to a global icon, is a testament to perseverance and talent. His legacy extends beyond the world of espionage, encompassing a diverse filmography, a dedication to family and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
In the gritty underworld of a crumbling city, a young enforcer is caught between loyalty and survival when his crime family is targeted by a ruthless new syndicate. As tensions rise and betrayals surface, he must traverse the treacherous streets, choosing between honour and power in a world where trust is a death sentence.
Top cast: om Hardy, Pierce Brosnan, Lisa Dwan, Paddy Considine, Joanne Froggatt, Mandeep Dhillon, Helen Mirren, Lara Pulver.
An elderly veteran escapes his care facility, determined to reach Normandy for the D-Day anniversary. His arduous journey across country is fuelled by a desire to honour a fallen friend and finally confront the lingering ghosts of war.
Top cast: Pierce Brosnan, Clémence Poésy, John Amos, Jürgen Prochnow, Ian McElhinney, Tara Lynne O’Neill, Samuel Bottomley, Desmond Eastwood.
A media mogul manipulates global news to incite war between superpowers. Bond teams up with a skilled Chinese agent to stop him, coming up against high-tech gadgetry and a deadly scheme threatening world peace.
Top cast: Pierce Brosnan, Jonathan Pryce, Michelle Yeoh, Teri Hatcher, Ricky Jay, Götz Otto, Joe Don Baker, Vincent Schiavelli, Judi Dench, Desmond Llewelyn, Samantha Bond, Colin Salmon, Geoffrey Palmer, Julian Fellowes.
Tasked with protecting an oil heiress from a cold-blooded terrorist with a vendetta, Bond uncovers a plot to unleash a nuclear catastrophe. Love and loyalty collide as Bond grapples with a dangerous mission that becomes deeply personal.
Top cast: Pierce Brosnan, Sophie Marceau, Robert Carlyle, Denise Richards, Robbie Coltrane, Judi Dench, Desmond Llewelyn, John Cleese, Maria Grazia Cucinotta, Samantha Bond, Michael Kitchen, Colin Salmon, Goldie, David Calder.
A wealthy thrill-seeker steals a priceless Monet to escape boredom, attracting the attention of a sharp insurance investigator. As their chase unfolds, a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse transforms into a passionate attraction, blurring the lines between desire and justice.
Top cast: Pierce Brosnan, Rene Russo, Denis Leary, Ben Gazzara, Frankie Faison, Fritz Weaver, Charles Keating, Mark Margolis, Faye Dunaway.
On a beautiful Greek island, a young woman invites three of her mum’s past flings to her wedding, hoping one is her father, while the mum reunites with her former loves amidst the chaos and sing-a-long fun.
Top cast: Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, Amanda Seyfried, Stellan Skarsgård, Nancy Baldwin, Colin Firth, Julie Walters, Christine Baranski, Dominic Cooper.
In a post-Cold War world, a rogue British agent steals a satellite weapon. Bond, partnered with a resourceful computer programmer, races to stop him from using it to destroy a major city and plunge the world into chaos.
Top cast: Pierce Brosnan, Sean Bean, Izabella Scorupco, Famke Janssen, Joe Don Baker, Judi Dench, Robbie Coltrane, Tchéky Karyo, Gottfried John, Alan Cumming, Desmond Llewelyn, Samantha Bond, Michael Kitchen.
A single father in 1950s Ireland fights a powerful legal system to win back his children after they’re taken by the state due to his unemployment, in a story inspired by a true fight for justice.
Top cast: Pierce Brosnan, Julianna Margulies, Aidan Quinn, Sophie Vavasseur, Niall Beagan, Hugh McDonagh, Mairead Devlin, Frank Kelly.
A captured Bond, suspected of turning rogue, escapes North Korea and must redeem himself. He tracks a diamond tycoon with a hidden agenda and a deadly weapon, aided by a fiery NSA agent and a mysterious woman with divided loyalties.
Top cast: Pierce Brosnan, Halle Berry, Rosamund Pike, Toby Stephens, Rick Yune, Judi Dench, John Cleese, Michael Madsen, Will Yun Lee, Kenneth Tsang, Colin Salmon, Samantha Bond. Madonna.
Richard Harris was an Irish force of nature on both stage and screen. His early life in Limerick, Ireland, was steeped in athletics. A talented rugby player, his dreams were shattered by a bout of tuberculosis in his teens. This forced a change of course, leading him to the world of theatre.
Drawn to the stage, Harris attended the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. He quickly found success in British theatre, becoming a key figure in the burgeoning British New Wave movement. His raw talent and captivating intensity shone in plays like “The Quare Fellow” and “The Ginger Man.” This intensity translated seamlessly to film in the late 50s, with Harris appearing in movies like “Shake Hands with the Devil” and “The Guns of Navarone.”
This Sporting Life – Richard Harris
The turning point came in 1963 with “This Sporting Life.” Here, Harris embodied the working-class rage and vulnerability of a struggling rugby player. His performance earned him an Oscar nomination and cemented his status as a leading man. He followed this with iconic roles in films like “Camelot,” where he brought a brooding sensuality to King Arthur and “A Man Called Horse,” showcasing his commitment to physical transformation.
Richard Harris wasn’t afraid to take risks. He tackled controversial roles like the complex Irish revolutionary in “The Molly Maguires” and the cannibalistic explorer in “Cry, the Beloved Country.” He also captivated audiences with his voice, recording a hit song, “MacArthur Park,” and lending his powerful narration to audiobooks, winning a Grammy for his reading of Dylan Thomas’ “Under Milk Wood.”
Despite his professional success, Harris’ personal life was often turbulent. A notorious drinker and free spirit, he battled personal demons throughout his career. However, his talent never dimmed. He delivered powerful performances later in life in films like “The Field,” which earned him another Oscar nomination, and “Gladiator,” where he brought gravitas to the role of Marcus Aurelius.
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets – Richard Harris (Albus Dumbledore) and Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter)
Among Richard Harris’ final film appearances were the first two “Harry Potter” movies, where he portrayed the wise and eccentric headmaster, Albus Dumbledore. He passed away in 2002, leaving behind a legacy of raw talent, unforgettable performances and a life lived on his own terms. Richard Harris was a true legend of Irish cinema, a man who burned brightly on screen and left audiences forever captivated.
A determined scientist and a resistance fighter lead a daring commando raid in WWII Norway. Their mission: to destroy a heavy water plant crucial to the Nazi atomic bomb program. Facing perilous conditions and intense enemy opposition, they must succeed to prevent a catastrophic turning point in the war.
Top cast: Kirk Douglas, Richard Harris, Ulla Jacobsson, Michael Redgrave, David Weston, Anton Diffring, Eric Porter, Mervyn Johns.
A devout Englishman wrestles with his conscience as he leads a rebellion against a tyrannical king. Fuelled by religious fervour and a desire for reform, he becomes a powerful military leader, but his rise to power forces him to confront the bloody consequences of war and the burden of regicide.
Top cast: Richard Harris, Alec Guinness, Robert Morley, Dorothy Tutin, Frank Finlay, Timothy Dalton, Patrick Wymark, Patrick Magee.
A brutal coal miner finds escape from his harsh life through rugby league, his raw talent and aggression propelling him to stardom. However, his violent tendencies and inability to express his emotions leave him unfulfilled, as his love for a troubled widow remains tragically one-sided.
Top cast: Richard Harris, Rachel Roberts, Alan Badel, William Hartnell, Colin Blakely, Vanda Godsell, Anne Cunningham, Jack Watson, Arthur Lowe, George Sewell, Leonard Rossiter.
A solitary lighthouse keeper on war-torn coast forms an unlikely bond with a young girl when they care for a wounded snow goose. As they nurse the bird back to health, their friendship blossoms, but the harsh realities of war threaten their fragile sanctuary.
Top cast: Richard Harris, Jenny Agutter, Graham Crowden, Freda Bamford, Noel Johnson, William Marlowe.
A mute young stable boy forms an extraordinary connection with a spirited Arabian colt, destined for greatness. Their bond endures treacherous journeys and political intrigue as they fight to preserve the magnificent horse and ensure his legacy as the founder of a legendary racing breed.
Top cast: Richard Harris, Glenda Jackson, Frank Finlay, Jenny Agutter, Nigel Hawthorne, Navin Chowdhry, Anthony Quayle, Peter Vaughan, Ian Richardson, Neil Dickson, Barry Foster, Jill Gascoine, Ralph Bates, Joan Hickson, Melvyn Hayes.
Returning to Hogwarts for his second year, Harry Potter finds cryptic messages warning of a dangerous secret chamber. As students are mysteriously petrified, he and his friends dig into the school’s dark history to confront a lurking monster and unravel the truth about a legendary heir.
Top cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Richard Harris, Richard Griffiths, Fiona Shaw, Harry Melling, Toby Jones, Julie Walters, Mark Williams, Jason Isaacs, Tom Felton.
A retired soldier is offered a hefty sum to assemble a team of mercenaries for a daring rescue mission in Africa. Despite facing betrayal and dwindling resources, the group fights its way through a hostile landscape, forced to confront the morality of their actions and the high cost of loyalty.
Top cast: Richard Burton, Roger Moore, Richard Harris, Hardy Krüger, Stewart Granger, Winston Ntshona, John Kani, Jack Watson, Frank Finlay, Barry Foster, Ronald Fraser.
Annabelle Wallis took a unique path to Hollywood. Though British by birth, her formative years were spent in the sunny shores of Cascais, Portugal, where her family relocated when she was a toddler. This international upbringing would become a defining aspect of her life, fostering a love for languages and a global perspective.
At Saint Dominic’s International School, Wallis thrived in a multicultural environment. She developed fluency in Portuguese, but her linguistic talents didn’t stop there. Exposure to various cultures sparked an interest in other languages and she speaks fluent Spanish, Armenian and French too. This multilingual ability would later prove to be an asset in her acting career.
By 19, she decided to trade the Portuguese sun for the bright lights of London. Determined to pursue her passion. In 2005, she landed a lead role in the Indian film “Dil Jo Bhi Kahey…” While the film itself didn’t achieve major commercial success, it marked the beginning of her on-screen journey.
Annabelle Wallis as Grace Burgess
Back in England, Annabelle Wallis began securing small roles in various productions. She appeared in films like “True True Lie” and “Body of Lies,” slowly building her resume and experience. The turning point came in 2009 when she landed the role of Jane Seymour in the critically acclaimed Showtime series “The Tudors”.
In 2013, she joined the cast of the BBC gangster drama “Peaky Blinders.” Her portrayal of Grace Burgess, a captivating socialite caught in the web of Birmingham’s criminal underworld, became a fan favourite. The series not only solidified her status as a rising star but also offered her the opportunity to work alongside established actors like Cillian Murphy and Helen McCrory.
While television provided her with a strong foundation, Annabelle Wallis also made her mark on the big screen. In 2014, she starred in the horror film “Annabelle,” a spin-off of the popular “Conjuring” franchise. The film’s commercial success further broadened her audience reach and established her as a scream queen. She continued to explore diverse genres, appearing in the action-adventure film “The Mummy” (2017) and the psychological horror film “Malignant” (2021).
Annabelle Wallis’ personal life has also garnered some interest. She has been romantically linked to actor Chris Pine and singer Chris Martin. She is the niece of Richard Harris and cousin of actors Damian, Jamie and Jared Harris. She is a great friend of her “Tudors” co-star Jonathan Rhys Meyers.
In the brutal aftermath of WWI, gang leader Tommy Shelby leads Birmingham’s criminal underworld, using violence, cunning and ambition to climb the social ladder. His ruthless pursuit of power brings him into conflict with rival gangs, authorities and his own demons.
Top cast: Cillian Murphy, Paul Anderson, Sophie Rundle, Helen McCrory, Annabelle Wallis, Finn Cole, Ned Dennehy, Joe Cole, Harry Kirton, Tom Hardy, Sam Neil.
King Henry VIII’s obsession with an heir fuels religious upheaval and dramatic court intrigue. Marriages become pawns, alliances shift and blood stains the throne as a dynasty teeters between stability and chaos.
Top cast: Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Henry Cavill, Natalie Dormer, Maria Doyle Kennedy, James Frain, Tamzin Merchant, Sarah Bolger, Annabelle Wallis (S3).
Born: 15 May 1909, Huddersfield, West Riding of Yorkshire, England.
The Wicked Lady – Margaret Lockwood and James Mason
James Mason, the son of a wealthy wool merchant, young James initially set his sights on a more conventional path, studying architecture at Peterhouse, Cambridge. However, the allure of the stage proved irresistible. After graduating, he embarked on a theatrical career, learning his craft in repertory companies before catching the eye of famed director Tyrone Guthrie at London’s Old Vic.
Mason’s film debut arrived in 1935 with a minor role in “Late Extra.” Throughout the late 1930s and early 1940s, he steadily built his reputation in British films, often portraying charming but morally ambiguous characters. His brooding good looks and deep, velvety voice became his signature trademarks.
By the mid-1940s, Mason had become a bona fide star, topping the UK box office for two consecutive years. Films like “The Seventh Veil” (1945), a complex story about a concert pianist struggling with amnesia, showcased his dramatic range, while “The Wicked Lady” (1945) cemented his status as a leading man.
James Mason and Kathleen Ryan in Odd Man Out
In 1947, Mason starred in “Odd Man Out,” a neo-noir masterpiece about a Belfast IRA gunman on the run. The film, lauded for its social commentary and gritty realism, was the first recipient of the BAFTA Award for Best British Film. It also marked a turning point in Mason’s career. Disillusioned with the limitations of the British film industry, he set his sights on Hollywood.
The 1950s saw Mason flourish in American cinema. He effortlessly transitioned from playing romantic leads in films like “Pandora and the Flying Dutchman” (1951) to portraying complex villains in classics such as “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” (1954) and “North by Northwest” (1959). His portrayal of the tragic movie star Norman Maine in “A Star is Born” (1954) earned him his first Academy Award nomination.
James Mason never shied away from challenging roles. He took on the controversial character of Humbert Humbert in Stanley Kubrick’s “Lolita” (1962). Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, he continued to work prolifically, both in Hollywood and Europe, appearing in films like “Julius Caesar” (1963) and “Murder on the Orient Express” (1974).
Peter Ustinov and James Mason in Evil Under the Sun
While his film career remained active well into his later years, Mason also ventured into television. He received critical acclaim for his role in the chilling miniseries “Salem’s Lot” (1979). His final film performance, a portrayal of a corrupt lawyer in “The Verdict” (1982), earned him his third and final Academy Award nomination.
James Mason’s personal life was marked by both love and loss. His first marriage, to Pamela Kellino, lasted for over two decades and produced two children. Following their divorce, he married actress Clarissa Kaye in 1971.
James Mason passed away in 1984 at the age of 75. He left behind a legacy as one of cinema’s most captivating actors, a man who effortlessly transitioned between brooding villains and charming heroes, captivating audiences for over five decades.
A strict patriarch in a working-class British family clashes with the changing times. He enforces rigid rules and expects his daughters to contribute to the household, but their youthful desires for independence and love run counter to his traditional expectations.
Top cast: James Mason, Diana Coupland, Hannah Gordon, Susan George, Rodney Bewes, Len Jones, Keith Buckley, Adrienne Posta, Arthur Lowe.
A young woman visiting post-war Berlin gets entangled with a charming but shady stranger. As Cold War tensions simmer, she finds herself caught in a web of espionage, forced to choose between love and survival in a divided city.
Top cast: James Mason, Claire Bloom, Hildegard Knef, Geoffrey Toone, Aribert Wäscher, Ernst Schröder, Dieter Krause, Hilde Sessak.
Wounded after a botched robbery, an Irish nationalist leader flees through Belfast, desperately seeking help. Betrayal and dwindling options force him to confront his own ideals and the human cost of his actions as he races against time and a tightening police net.
Top cast: James Mason, Robert Newton, Cyril Cusack F.J. McCormick, William Hartnell, Fay Compton, Denis O’Dea, W.G. Fay.
Three sisters navigate vastly different marriages: one finds happiness but longs for children, another escapes an unhappy union through affairs and the last endures a controlling and abusive husband, with their lives intertwining as they face love, betrayal and the complexities of family.
Top cast: James Mason, Phyllis Calvert, Hugh Sinclair, Anne Crawford, Peter Murray-Hill, Dulcie Gray, Barry Livesey, Pamela Mason, Ann Stephens.
In the brutal Eastern Front of WWII, a battle-hardened sergeant leads his men through desperate retreats, clashing with a glory-hungry captain who prioritises medals over lives. As loyalty and camaraderie are tested, they fight for survival against a relentless enemy and the horrors of war itself.
Top cast: James Coburn, Maximilian Schell, James Mason, David Warner, Klaus Löwitsch, Vadim Glowna, Roger Fritz, Dieter Schidor.
A young woman trapped in a loveless marriage finds solace in an old friend, rekindling a past romance. But their secret affair sparks jealousy and revenge, leading them down a path of danger and betrayal, all while their descendants unknowingly mirror their story centuries later.
Top cast: Margaret Lockwood, Phyllis Calvert, James Mason, Stewart Granger, Harry Scott, Beatrice Varley, Martita Hunt, Helen Hayes, Raymond Lovell.
A private investigator, following a trail of extortion and a missing girl, uncovers a web of deceit when the prime suspect, a doctor at the heart of the case, vanishes himself, leaving the investigator to race against time to find the truth and expose the real culprit.
Top cast: James Mason, Mary Clare, Margaret Vyner, Gordon McLeod, Frederick Valk, Barbara Everest, Barbara James, G.H. Mulcaster.
Desperate to escape Nazi persecution, hundreds of Jewish refugees board a ship for Cuba, only to be turned away by multiple countries. Trapped at sea and facing an uncertain future, they wrestle with despair and hope as the captain desperately searches for a safe harbour.
Top cast: Faye Dunaway, Max von Sydow, Oskar Werner, James Mason, Malcolm McDowell, Orson Welles, Lee Grant, Katharine Ross, Denholm Elliott, Leonard Rossiter.
A brilliant German tank commander in North Africa clashes with Hitler’s brutality, questioning Nazi ideology while leading daring desert offensives, but ultimately finds himself caught between loyalty to his men and defiance against a tyrannical regime.
Top cast: James Mason, Cedric Hardwicke, Jessica Tandy, Luther Adler, Everett Sloane, Leo G. Carroll, George Macready, Richard Boone, Eduard Franz.
In 17th century England, a bored noblewoman rebels against societal constraints. She steals her friend’s groom, then takes to a life of crime as a masked highway woman, thrilling in the danger and excitement. But her double life becomes precarious as she attracts the attention of both a handsome outlaw and a determined lawman , her unsuspecting husband.
Top cast: Margaret Lockwood, James Mason, Patricia Roc, Griffith Jones, Michael Rennie, Felix Aylmer, Enid Stamp-Taylor, Jean Kent, Francis Lister.
In war-torn North Africa, a resourceful British captain leads a ragtag group of Australian soldiers, vastly outnumbered by German forces, in a tenacious defence of a strategic Libyan port, earning them the nickname “The Desert Rats” for their resilience and bravery.
Top cast: Richard Burton, James Mason, Robert Newton, Robert Douglas, Torin Thatcher, Chips Rafferty, Charles ‘Bud’ Tingwell, Charles Davis, Ben Wright.
A middle-aged literature professor becomes obsessed with a teenage girl, manipulating his way into her life through marriage to her mother. The controversial relationship spirals into a twisted journey of possession and control, marked by loss and the pursuit of a dark desire.
Top cast: James Mason, Shelley Winters, Sue Lyon, Gary Cockrell, Jerry Stovin, Diana Decker, Lois Maxwell, Cec Linder.
A famed pianist with crippling amnesia undergoes hypnosis to recover her memories, revealing a complex past filled with a possessive guardian who nurtured her talent while sabotaging her love life, forcing her to confront the truth about her emotions and reclaim her ability to play.
Top cast: James Mason, Ann Todd, Herbert Lom, Hugh McDermott, Albert Lieven, Yvonne Owen, David Horne.
A Nazi hunter races against time to stop a chilling plot by a disguised Mengele, who has secretly cloned Hitler from stolen genetic material and placed the boys with unsuspecting families, aiming to resurrect the Nazi legacy through a new generation.
Top cast: Gregory Peck, Laurence Olivier, James Mason, Lilli Palmer, Uta Hagen, Steve Guttenberg, Denholm Elliott, Rosemary Harris, John Dehner, Bruno Ganz.
On a luxurious island getaway, a glamorous socialite becomes the target of resentment. When she’s found murdered, the famed detective Poirot untangles a web of deceit and hidden motives among the seemingly idyllic vacationers, revealing a killer lurking beneath the sun-drenched paradise.
Top cast: Peter Ustinov, James Mason, Sylvia Miles, Roddy McDowell, Maggie Smith, Jane Birkin, Nicholas Clay, Diana Rigg, Denis Quilley.
Set during World War II, an East End of London A.F.S. unit proves their mettle. Bob and Nan, a couple planning to marry, face the war’s challenges. Bob joins the A.F.S., who are recruiting. Amidst feuds and personal struggles, the A.F.S. boys rise heroically during the blitz, demonstrating unwavering devotion to duty
Top cast: Tommy Trinder, James Mason, Philip Friend, Mervyn Johns, William Hartnell, Finlay Currie.
A young woman, unaware of her true parentage, traverses a web of secrets in Victorian London. After discovering a shocking family connection, she finds love but faces social barriers and a manipulative villain who threatens her newfound happiness.
Top cast: Phyllis Calvert, James Mason, Wilfrid Lawson, Stewart Granger, Jean Kent, Margaretta Scott, Nora Swinburne, Cathleen Nesbitt.
Susan George began her life in the spotlight early, by the age of four, she was already acting. Her training began at the Stage School, followed by the Corona Theatre School.
Susan George’s career took off in the late 1960s, and two of her notable early appearances showcase her emerging talent and versatility.
Michael York and Susan George (The Strange Affair)
The Strange Affair (1968) marked a significant turning point for the young actress. Here, she played Frederika “Fred” March, a teenager caught in a tense situation with a manipulative older man. The film explores themes of power dynamics and class differences. George’s portrayal of Fred is both vulnerable and defiant. She captures the confusion and fear of a young woman targeted by a predator, while also hinting at a strength that will come to define her later roles.
Spring and Port Wine (1970) takes a different approach. This family drama set in working-class Bolton sees George as Hilda Crompton, facing the challenges of growing up. The film provides a stark contrast to The Strange Affair. Here, George portrays a young woman grappling with family dynamics and the expectations placed on her within a working-class environment.
Hannah Gordon, Diana Coupland and Susan George (Spring and Port Wine)
The 1970s proved to be Susan’s most prolific decade. In 1971, she landed the role that would define her career: Amy, the controversial wife in Sam Peckinpah’s “Straw Dogs.” The film’s graphic violence, particularly the infamous rape scene, caused a stir, but Susan’s powerful performance garnered international attention and established her as a leading actress.
Throughout the 70s, Susan took on diverse roles. She played a spirited car enthusiast in “Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry” (1974) alongside Peter Fonda, showcasing her action heroine chops. She also tackled more complex characters, like a slave owner’s wife in the controversial “Mandingo” (1975). While some roles led to accusations of typecasting, Susan consistently delivered captivating performances, regardless of genre.
In 1984, she married actor Simon MacCorkindale. Together, they shared a passion for Arabian horses, co-founding Georgian Arabians, a world-renowned breeding operation. Sadly, Simon passed away in 2010.
Today, Susan George remains a respected figure in the film industry. She is a member of numerous prestigious acting organisations and participates in horse breeding and equestrian events.
A naive policeman falls for a mysterious young woman, unaware she’s entangled in a dark world. Meanwhile, a seasoned detective pursues a ruthless criminal, their paths colliding in a web of corruption, betrayal and a desperate choice that forces the young copper to risk everything.
Top cast: Michael York, Susan George, Jeremy Kemp, George A. Cooper, George Selway, Artro Morris, Richard Pearson, Jeremy Wilkin, Michael Gover, Nigel Davenport.
In a working-class English household, a strict father struggles to maintain control as his grown children challenge his authority and yearn for independence, leading to a clash of wills that threatens to tear the family apart.
Top cast: James Mason, Diana Coupland, Hannah Gordon, Susan George, Rodney Bewes, Len Jones, Keith Buckley, Adrienne Posta, Arthur Lowe.
Born: 17 February 1934, Allestree, Derby, England.
The Fixer – Alan Bates
Alan Bates wasn’t destined for the stage at first. Though his parents, both music lovers, nurtured his artistic side, young Alan initially focused on music. By the age of 11, however, a spark ignited a new passion – acting. He devoured local productions at Derby’s Little Theatre and his decision was made.
His dedication paid off. Bates earned a scholarship to the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, graduating in 1954. After a mandatory stint in the Royal Air Force, he landed a pivotal role – joining the newly formed English Stage Company at the Royal Court Theatre.
The 1950s saw Bates establish himself as a rising star of British theatre. He embodied the rebellious spirit of the era, perfectly capturing the disillusionment and anger of young Britons in John Osborne’s ground breaking play “Look Back in Anger” (1956). This success propelled him onto the silver screen, where his film career blossomed in the 1960s.
Women in Love – Alan Bates and Oliver Reed
Alan Bates wasn’t afraid to take on diverse roles. He captivated audiences in the gritty realism of “A Kind of Loving” (1962), a film that explored the challenges of working-class life, and then charmed them with his portrayal of the playful lodger in the whimsical “Georgy Girl” (1966). He displayed his dramatic range in “Far From the Madding Crowd” (1967), a classic adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s novel, and then delivered a powerful performance in “The Fixer” (1968), which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
One of Bates’ most iconic roles came in 1969 with Ken Russell’s controversial film “Women in Love.” His portrayal of the passionate Gerald Crich alongside Oliver Reed and Glenda Jackson cemented his status as a daring and versatile actor.
His stage career remained equally distinguished. He received critical acclaim for his portrayal of Richard III and took on iconic Shakespearean roles like Hamlet and King Lear later in his career. Awarded a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 1976 and knighted in 2003, Sir Alan Bates’ dedication to his craft was undeniable.
Alan Bates married actress Victoria Ward in 1970 and they had two sons, Benedick and Tristan.
Nothing But the Best is a poignant exploration of class and ambition set in post-war England. Alan Bates plays a working-class boy who, despite his humble origins, yearns for a life of privilege and success. Through his relentless pursuit of social mobility, he confronts the challenges and sacrifices inherent in such a journey, ultimately leading him to question the true meaning of success and happiness.
Top cast: Alan Bates, Denholm Elliott, Millicent Martin, Harry Andrews, Pauline Delaney, Godfrey Quigley, Alison Leggatt, Lucinda Curtis, Nigel Stock, Anneke Wills.
Three farm children, mistaking an escaped criminal for Jesus Christ, hide him in their barn. As their belief intensifies, the clash between innocent faith and harsh reality throws their small community into a whirlwind of confusion and ultimately, a test of compassion.
Top cast: Hayley Mills, Alan Bates, Bernard Lee, Norman Bird, Diane Clare, John Arnatt, Patricia Heneghan, Elsie Wagstaff.
A young factory worker’s carefree fling leads to an unplanned pregnancy, forcing him into a marriage with a woman he doesn’t quite love. Living with her overbearing mother strains their fragile connection, and a heartbreaking loss forces them to confront the true meaning of their “kind of loving.”
Top cast: Alan Bates, June Ritchie, Thora Hird, Bert Palmer, Pat Keen, James Bolam, Jack Smethurst, Gwen Nelson, Patsy Rowlands, Leonard Rossiter.
An unconventional young woman, more comfortable with children than romance, contends with life’s complexities. When an older gentleman proposes and her roommate gets pregnant, she must choose between societal expectations and forging her own path.
Top cast: James Mason, Lynn Redgrave, Alan Bates, Charlotte Rampling, Bill Owen, Clare Kelly, Rachel Kempson.
An independent woman inherits a farm, attracting the attention of three suitors – a dependable shepherd, a wealthy landowner and a dashing soldier. As she faces love, loss and the challenges of running a farm, she must choose between security, passion and her own hard-won independence.
Top cast: Julie Christie, Terence Stamp, Peter Finch, Alan Bates, Fiona Walker, Prunella Ransome, Alison Leggatt, Paul Dawkins.
A vengeful pilot fakes his death to collect life insurance, fleeing to Spain with his wife. But their scheme unravels when an insurance investigator arrives. Paranoia consumes the pilot as he runs from the truth, jeopardising his new life and his relationship with his wife.
Top cast: Laurence Harvey, Lee Remick, Alan Bates, Felix Aylmer, Eleanor Summerfield, Allan Cuthbertson, Harold Goldblatt, Noel Purcell.
Falsely accused of murder in Tsarist Russia, a Jewish handyman endures brutal imprisonment and escalating persecution. Isolated and stripped of his identity, he must fight for survival and grapple with his own faith as he awaits a trial that seems preordained.
Top cast: Alan Bates, Dirk Bogarde, Georgia Brown, Hugh Griffith, Elizabeth Hartman, Ian Holm, David Opatoshu, David Warner, Carol White.
Two sisters grapple with contrasting relationships in the aftermath of war. One seeks a passionate connection, while the other strives for a stable marriage. Their journeys in love, tested by societal pressures and clashing personalities, expose the complexities of desire and commitment.
Top cast: Alan Bates, Oliver Reed, Glenda Jackson, Jennie Linden, Eleanor Bron, Alan Webb, Vladek Sheybal, Catherine Willmer, Phoebe Nicholls.
A disgraced man sells his wife in a drunken stupor, vowing to rebuild his life. Years later, prosperous and respected, his past resurfaces, forcing him to confront his mistakes and the consequences that threaten to unravel everything he’s built.
Top cast: Alan Bates, Janet Maw, Jack Galloway, Anna Massey, Ronald Lacey, Peter Bourke, Jeffrey Holland, Alan Rowe.
Guy Burgess, a disgraced British spy living a lonely existence in Moscow encounters a famous actress on tour. A chance meeting sparks an unexpected connection, offering a glimpse of his past life and a reminder of the world he left behind.
Top cast: Alan Bates, Coral Browne, Charles Gray, Harold Innocent, Vernon Dobtcheff, Mark Wing-Davey, Douglas Reith.
A wealthy industrialist prioritizes logic over emotion, raising his children in a rigid, fact-based world. When their paths collide with a disillusioned worker and a charming outsider, their tightly controlled lives unravel, exposing the limitations of reason and the power of human connection.
Top cast: Alan Bates, Bob Peck, Richard E. Grant, Bill Paterson, Beatie Edney, Harriet Walter, Christien Anholt, Dilys Laye, Alex Jennings.
Simon Bird, the third of four children to academic parents, his early life was steeped in intellectual pursuits. He excelled at the Royal Grammar School in Guildford, showcasing a talent for music as a violinist in school orchestras.
Simon Bird’s academic prowess continued at Queens’ College, Cambridge, where he studied English Literature. There, he discovered a new passion – comedy. He joined the prestigious Cambridge Footlights, a breeding ground for comedic talent, and served as its president in 2006. Here, he developed his comedic skills alongside fellow Footlights member and future co-star, Joe Thomas.
While Bird pursued a Master’s degree in Cultural and Critical Studies at Birkbeck, University of London, comedy remained a constant. He co-founded “The House of Windsor,” a sketch comedy group, with Thomas and other Footlights alumni.
The Inbetweeners – James Buckley, Joe Thomas, Blake Harrison and Simon Bird
Simon Bird’s big break arrived in 2008 with the E4 sitcom “The Inbetweeners.” Co-created by Iain Forsyth and Jane Pollard, the show offered an unfiltered look at the awkward social lives of four teenage boys. Bird landed the role of Will McKenzie, the seemingly sensible yet equally clueless member of the group. “The Inbetweeners” became a runaway success, praised for its sharp writing and relatable characters. Bird’s portrayal of Will, with his dry wit and self-deprecating humour, resonated with audiences and propelled him to stardom.
The success of “The Inbetweeners” translated to the big screen with two films, released in 2011 and 2014. Bird reprised his role as Will, navigating the challenges of adulthood with his equally hapless friends. The films further cemented Bird’s comedic credentials and solidified “The Inbetweeners” as a cult classic.
Bird’s talents extend beyond acting. He co-created the BBC Three panel show “The King is Dead,” showcasing his ability to craft witty and satirical humour. He has also ventured into directing, helming episodes of “Friday Night Dinner” and “Roadkill.”
Four teenage boys navigate the awkward stages of adolescence, entangled in hopeless crushes, questionable decisions and cringe laden social blunders, all while yearning for acceptance and a taste of adulthood.
Top cast: Simon Bird, Joe Thomas, James Buckley, Blake Harrison, Greg Davies, Emily Head, Martin Trenaman, Belinda Stewart-Wilson, Robin Weaver, Henry Lloyd-Hughes, Emily Atack.
During WWI, three men deemed unfit for service become social outcasts in their small village. Coping with scornful glares and gossip, they forge an unlikely bond while dodging menial tasks and yearning for a chance to prove themselves, all under the watchful eye of a cunning (and possibly manipulative) young woman.
Top cast: Simon Bird, Jonny Sweet, Joe Thomas, Sarah Daykin, Emerald Fennell, Louise Ford, Eileen Davies, Emma Fryer, Amy Dawson, Vicki Pepperdine, Jessica Barden, Barry Humphries.
A devout family wrestles with reconciling their strict religious beliefs with the temptations of modern life. Dad attempts to shield his family from hellfire, while teenagers grapple with faith, identity and the ever-present fear of eternal damnation.
Top cast: Simon Bird, Kate O’Flynn, Amy James-Kelly, Harry Connor, Ali Khan, Morgana Robinson, Lolly Adefope, Arsher Ali, Kadiff Kirwan.
Weekly dinners at a Jewish North London home bring together two adult brothers, their eccentric parents and their weird neighbour. The seemingly ordinary routine explodes into chaos with unexpected guests, family quirks and hilariously disastrous situations.
Top cast: Tamsin Greig, Simon Bird, Paul Ritter, Tom Rosenthal, Mark Heap, Tracy-Ann Oberman, Frances Cuka, Rosalind Knight, Tuppence Middleton.
Born: 15 February 1931, Finchley, Middlesex, England.
The Spy Who Came in from the Cold – Claire Bloom
Claire Bloom is a titan of British acting whose career has spanned over seven decades. Her journey began in Finchley, North London, where a young Claire displayed a natural affinity for the arts. Even during the disruptions of World War II, which saw her family move briefly to Florida, the stage beckoned. Back in London, she attended the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, her scholarship a testament to her budding brilliance.
Bloom’s professional debut arrived at the age of 15, gracing the London stage with the Oxford Repertory Theatre. A year later, at the prestigious Shakespeare Memorial Theatre (later the Royal Shakespeare Company), she breathed life into Ophelia in “Hamlet.” This performance, alongside the legendary Richard Burton, solidified her status as a rising star. Shakespearean heroines became a recurring theme in her early career, with Bloom captivating audiences in “King John” and “The Winter’s Tale.”
In 1952, fate intervened when Charlie Chaplin cast her in his final film, “Limelight.” This international success catapulted Bloom onto the silver screen. The film’s title became prophetic, as Bloom entered a period bathed in the spotlight. Hollywood beckoned and she appeared in a string of notable films throughout the 50s and 60s.
Jeremy Irons as Charles Ryder and Claire Bloom as Lady Marchmain in Brideshead Revisited
Opposite Laurence Olivier, she delivered a powerful performance in “Richard III.” She brought a touch of vulnerability to the Cold War thriller “The Spy Who Came In from the Cold” and showcased her dramatic range in “Charly,” a poignant story about a man with intellectual disability undergoing surgery to enhance his intelligence.
Television also became a prominent platform for Bloom’s talent. She captivated audiences in miniseries like “Brideshead Revisited,” earning an Emmy nomination for her portrayal of Lady Marchmain. In “Shadowlands,” a biographical drama about C.S. Lewis, her performance as Joy Gresham, Lewis’s wife, won a BAFTA Award.
Claire Bloom’s personal life was as rich and multifaceted as her career. Her marriage to actor Rod Steiger, with whom she shared a daughter, Anna, ended in divorce. Subsequent marriages to producer Hillard Elkins and novelist Philip Roth also dissolved. Despite these challenges, Bloom continued to find solace and inspiration in her art.
Beyond acting, Claire Bloom has also found success as a writer. Her memoirs, “Limelight and After” and “Leaving a Doll’s House,” offer a candid glimpse into her life and career.
WINNER | Film: Most Promising Newcomer To Film for Limelight (1953) | Television: Actress for Shadowlands (1986)
A reserved academic finds his life transformed by the whirlwind arrival of a captivating American woman and her son. Their unconventional love story deepens as she faces a devastating illness, forcing him to confront his faith and the true meaning of love.
Top cast: Joss Ackland, Claire Bloom, David Waller, Rupert Baderman, Rhys Hopkins, Alan MacNaughtan, Philip Stone, Norman Rutherford, John Ringham.
A power-hungry and manipulative nobleman schemes his way to the throne, eliminating anyone who stands in his path. Guilt and paranoia plague his reign, leading to a final battle that determines England’s fate.
Top cast: Laurence Olivier, Ralph Richardson, John Gielgud, Claire Bloom, Nicholas Hannen, Cedric Hardwicke, Paul Huson, Pamela Brown, Mary Kerridge.
A disillusioned British spy becomes a pawn in a calculated mission, feigning disgrace to infiltrate the enemy. As the lines between reality and performance blur, he grapples with the human cost of Cold War deception.
Top cast: Richard Burton, Oskar Werner, Claire Bloom, Sam Wanamaker, George Voskovec, Rupert Davies, Cyril Cusack, Peter van Eyck, Michael Hordern, Robert Hardy, Bernard Lee.
A frustrated working-class intellectual lashes out at societal inequalities and his privileged wife, creating a tense environment fuelled by resentment and a flicker of longing for a different life.
Top cast: Richard Burton, Claire Bloom, Mary Ure, Edith Evans, Gary Raymond, Glen Byam Shaw, Phyllis Neilson-Terry, Donald Pleasence, Nigel Davenport.
A man reminisces about his idyllic friendship with a wealthy, eccentric Catholic family and his forbidden love for one of their sons, grappling with loss, faith and the complexities of social class.
Top cast: Jeremy Irons, Anthony Andrews, Diana Quick, Claire Bloom, Phoebe Nicholls, Simon Jones, John Gielgud, Laurence Olivier, Stéphane Audran.
“The Camomile Lawn” is a family saga that unfolds during World War Two. Set in both the war era and forty years later at a family funeral, it follows the lives and loves of a group of cousins. In 1939, Oliver, Calypso, Polly and Walter visit friends and family in Cornwall, enjoying their love lives amidst the turmoil of war. Decades later, they reunite for a funeral, reflecting on the changes that time has wrought.
Top cast: Felicity Kendal, Claire Bloom, Paul Eddington, Jennifer Ehle, Tara Fitzgerald, Rosemary Harris, Rebecca Hall, Toby Stephens.
Jasmine Jobson’s talent for mimicking television stars at the age of six caught her mother’s eye, who promptly enrolled her in Paddington Arts, a youth arts program nurturing creativity in London’s youth.
However, Jobson’s childhood wasn’t without its challenges. In a personal decision with lasting impact, she requested separation from her mother and spent five years in foster care within West Drayton. Despite these difficulties, Jobson channeled her experiences into her artistic pursuits. Theatre became her initial canvas, with roles in productions like “Phoenix: A Girl on Fire” and “Wild Diamonds” showcasing her raw talent.
Jasmine Jobson’s screen debut arrived in 2014 with a string of short films, including “Flea” and “A Generation of Vipers”. In 2016, she landed a guest spot in the detective series “Suspects,” followed by appearances in “The Break” and “Dark Heart.” These minor roles were stepping stones on the path to her breakout performance.
2019 marked a turning point in Jobson’s career. The critically acclaimed Netflix series “Top Boy” premiered, featuring Jobson in the pivotal role of Jaq. Her portrayal of the intelligent and fiercely loyal friend traversing the treacherous world of London drug dealing resonated with audiences and critics alike. The role earned Jobson a BAFTA nomination for Supporting Actress in 2020 and 2023.
Jobson’s talents extend beyond television. The 2020 Sundance Film Festival saw the premiere of “Surge,” a feature film where she played Lily opposite the acclaimed Ben Whishaw. This versatility, coupled with her undeniable screen presence, has opened doors to a wider range of projects.
While details of Jobson’s personal life remain largely private, her social media presence hints at a strong bond with her family and a deep love for music. Jobson’s journey from a talented youth program participant to a BAFTA winning actress is an inspiring testament to her dedication and raw talent.
WINNER | Television: Supporting Actress for Top Boy (2024)
Suggested viewing
Top Boy (2011)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.4
A young teen struggles to cope with a crime-ridden London housing estate after his mother’s breakdown. Meanwhile, two ambitious drug dealers fight for control of the local market, their ruthless pursuit of power mirroring the desperation of those trapped in the cycle of violence.
Top cast: Ashley Walters, Kano, Jasmine Jobson, Little Simz, Araloyin Oshunremi, Joshua Blisset, Dudley O’Shaughnessy, Micheal Ward, Reniko Francis, Shone Romulus, Kadeem Ramsay, Seraphina Beh, Lisa Dwan, Nyshai Caynes, Hope Ikpoku Jnr, Elizabeth Tan.
Born: 23 August 1945, Leeds, West Riding of Yorkshire, England.
Born into a working-class family in Leeds, Bob Peck’s journey to becoming a celebrated actor began modestly. His early life wasn’t steeped in theatrical pursuits, but a spark ignited during his teenage years. At 15, he participated in a six-week program with the National Youth Theatre, planting the seeds of a lifelong passion. While he received a Diploma in Art and Design from Leeds College of Art, his involvement in student dramatics solidified his desire to pursue acting professionally.
Following his artistic education, Bob Peck cut his teeth on the stage, performing with esteemed companies like the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre. His talent didn’t go unnoticed, and he soon found himself gracing television screens.
One of his most impactful television roles came in the 1985 miniseries “Edge of Darkness.” His portrayal of Ronald Craven, a man thrust into a web of conspiracy and political intrigue, was nothing short of masterful. This performance earned him a prestigious BAFTA TV Award for Best Actor.
While Peck thrived in television, his film career also flourished. Though he appeared in several films throughout the 1970s and 1980s, it was his role as Robert Muldoon in Steven Spielberg’s 1993 blockbuster “Jurassic Park” that catapulted him to international recognition. Muldoon, the no-nonsense game warden tasked with ensuring the safety of park visitors amidst escaped dinosaurs, became an instant fan favorite. Peck’s portrayal was a perfect blend of gruff pragmatism and dry humour, offering a counterpoint to the film’s awe-inspiring spectacle.
Bob Peck’s personal life was marked by a dedication to his family. He married Jill Baker in 1982 and together they had three children. Despite the demands of his career, he remained a devoted husband and father. Sadly, his life was cut tragically short in 1999 when he succumbed to cancer at the age of 53.
Suggested viewing
Edge of Darkness (1985)
Bftv 9.5 / IMDb 8.3
A grieving father, a policeman by trade, uncovers a web of lies surrounding his activist daughter’s murder. His investigation leads him down a dark path of corporate corruption and government secrets, forcing him to confront a chilling truth that threatens not just him, but the world itself.
Top cast: Bob Peck, Joe Don Baker, Charles Kay, Ian McNeice, Joanne Whalley, Hugh Fraser, John Woodvine, Jack Watson, Tim McInnerny, Zoë Wanamaker.
The Disputation (1986)
Bftv ? / IMDb 8.5
In medieval Spain, a tense debate erupts between Jewish and Christian scholars, with a king acting as judge. Each side passionately argues their interpretation of scripture and the arrival of the Messiah, raising questions of faith, tradition and the nature of truth itself.
Top cast: Christopher Lee, Bob Peck, Alan Dobie, Bernard Hepton, Helen Lindsay, Toyah Willcox.
The Black Velvet Gown (1991)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.9
In 19th century England, a widowed mother struggles to raise her children. A job as a housekeeper for a reclusive scholar brings unexpected kindness, education and a luxurious gown, but hides a dark secret that shapes the future of both mother and daughter.
Top cast: Bob Peck, Janet McTeer, Geraldine Somerville, Brendan P. Healy, Jean Anderson, Christopher Benjamin, Wendy Williams.
Hospital! (1997)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.5
A brilliant young brain surgeon races against time to save a life, all while dodging a lovelorn colleague, a penny-pinching administrator and a surprise encounter with a historical figure, all on the day he’s supposed to leave for a new life abroad.
Top cast: Greg Wise, Bob Peck, Hywel Bennett, Celia Imrie, Haydn Gwynne, Mark Heap, Lucy Akrill, Clive Anderson, June Brown, Martin Clunes, Julian Clary.
Hard Times (1994)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 6.5
In a bleak industrial town, a rigid schoolmaster raises his children based on logic alone. A factory worker longs for a better life but faces a cruel marriage and harsh working conditions, highlighting the clash between reason and human needs in a harsh society.
Top cast: Alan Bates, Bob Peck, Richard E. Grant, Bill Paterson, Beatie Edney, Harriet Walter, Christien Anholt, Dilys Laye, Alex Jennings.
Born: 11 January 1956, Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland.
With Ian McShane in Lovejoy
Phyllis Logan is a renowned actress who carved her path on both the big and small screens. Her journey began in the historic countryside surrounding Paisley, where a spark for the performing arts likely ignited during her formative years.
Phyllis Logan’s passion for acting led her to pursue formal training at the prestigious Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow. Her dedication shone through, and she graduated in 1977 with the coveted James Bridie Gold Medal, a testament to her exceptional talent.
Following graduation, Logan gained valuable experience on the stage. The Dundee Repertory Theatre served as her training ground, where she learned the intricacies of live performance.
Logan’s transition to screen acting didn’t take long. Her television debut arrived, and she began captivating audiences with her talent. A breakout role came in the 1983 film “Another Time, Another Place.” Her portrayal of Janie garnered critical acclaim and a BAFTA Award for Most Promising Newcomer.
With Jim Carter in Downton Abbey
However, it was television that brought her wider recognition. The role of Lady Jane Felsham in the popular detective series “Lovejoy” (1986-1993) became a defining one. Logan’s portrayal of the elegant and witty Lady Jane entertained viewers for seven seasons, establishing her as a household name in the UK.
The new millennium ushered in another iconic role for Logan. In 2010, she joined the cast of the critically acclaimed period drama “Downton Abbey.” Phyllis Logan’s portrayal of Mrs. Hughes, the formidable yet kind-hearted head housekeeper of Downton Abbey, struck a chord with viewers. Her consistent performance throughout the show’s six seasons was recognised with a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series, an honour she shared with her fellow actors.
Beyond her celebrated career, Phyllis Logan’s personal life is enriched by love and family. She married fellow actor Kevin McNally in 2011 and together they share a son, who was born in 1996.
WINNER | Film: Most Promising Newcomer To Film for Another Time, Another Place (1984) | Scotland: Actress – TV for Guilt (2022)
Two brothers find themselves entangled in a devastating secret after accidentally striking a man with their car. In a moment of panic, they choose to conceal the truth, setting off a chain reaction of guilt and paranoia that slowly dismantles their lives. As suspicion mounts and the investigation closes in, the series delves into the complexities of morality, deception and the desperate measures people take to shield themselves and those they hold dear.
Top cast: Ellie Haddington, Moyo Akandé, Jamie Sives, Phyllis Logan, Greg McHugh, Mark Bonnar, Henry Pettigrew, Ruth Bradle, Emun Elliott, Sian Brooke.
An aristocratic family and their downstairs staff tackle the societal upheavals of the early 20th century, from the sinking of the Titanic to the rise of modernism. Upstairs, the family grapples with securing their legacy, while downstairs, the servants find love, loss and their own changing roles in a shifting world.
Top cast: Hugh Bonneville, Laura Carmichael, Jim Carter, Phyllis Logan, Brendan Coyle, Michelle Dockery, Joanne Froggatt, Rob James-Collier.
Excitement fills the grand estate as the esteemed Crawley family prepares to host the King and Queen. Upstairs, drama unfolds with a potential scandal, while downstairs, loyal staff grapple with a royal visit’s disruption to their usual routine. As tensions rise, both the family and their devoted servants face a momentous event that will leave their lives forever changed.
Top cast: Hugh Bonneville, Laura Carmichael, Jim Carter, Phyllis Logan, Brendan Coyle, Michelle Dockery, Kevin Doyle, Joanne Froggatt, Matthew Goode.
The Crawleys face double duty: a surprise inheritance sends them to the South of France to untangle a family secret, while a silent film crew descends on Downton, bringing a touch of Hollywood glamour (and chaos) to the grand estate. Upstairs and downstairs contend with change, both in their personal lives and the evolving world around them.
Top cast: Hugh Bonneville, Maggie Smith, Jim Carter, Phyllis Logan, Michelle Dockery, Elizabeth McGovern, Imelda Staunton, Penelope Wilton, Robert James-Collier, Lesley Nicole.
Three lifelong friends, all facing challenges that come with middle age, lean on each other for support. One deals with a sudden disappearance, another fights ageism at work and the last juggles caring for an aging parent with a troubled son. Through laughter and tears, their unwavering bond helps them traverse life’s uncertainties.
Top cast: Phyllis Logan, Miranda Richardson, Zoë Wanamaker, Philip Cumbus, Daisy Head, Adrian Rawlins, Valerie Lilley, Matthew Lewis, Anthony Head, Paula Wilcox, Wendy Craig.
In World War II Scotland, a lonely farmer’s wife finds solace and forbidden love with an Italian prisoner of war. Their passionate connection blossoms amidst wartime restrictions, but their happiness is threatened by the realities of war and the cultural divide.
Top cast: Phyllis Logan, Giovanni Mauriello, Gianluca Favilla, Claudio Rosini, Paul Young, Gregor Fisher, Tom Watson, Jennifer Piercey, Denise Coffey.
A roguish antiques dealer with a keen eye for treasure uses his cunning and wit to solve mysteries alongside his wealthy patron, a dim assistant, and a perpetually intoxicated friend. They journey through the murky world of auctions and stately homes, righting wrongs and uncovering hidden gems.
Top cast: Ian McShane, Dudley Sutton, Chris Jury, Phyllis Logan, Malcolm Tierney, Caroline Langrishe, Diane Parish, Pavel Douglas, Maggie Ollerenshaw.
While his father served in the Royal Air Force, young Terry Jones’s childhood unfolded by the Welsh seaside. His family nurtured a love for the arts, his grandparents managed a local operatic society, a hint of the performer to come.
Education proved to be a springboard for Jones’s talents. At Oxford University’s St Edmund Hall, he switched from English to History, but his true passion emerged on the stage. Here, he met Michael Palin, a friendship that would become the cornerstone of his comedic success.
After graduating, Jones and Palin found their footing in the world of British comedy. They wrote for shows like “Do Not Adjust Your Set” and “The Frost Report,” showcasing a sharp, absurd sense of humour. This very absurdity caught the eye of the soon to be legendary Monty Python crew. In 1969, Jones, alongside Palin, John Cleese, Graham Chapman, Eric Idle and animator Terry Gilliam, unleashed “Monty Python’s Flying Circus” upon the world.
Terry Jones’s contribution to Monty Python went far beyond just writing. He was a master of physical comedy, contorting his face and body to create unforgettable characters. From the shrill-voiced housewife to the nude organist, Jones revelled in the bizarre. He wasn’t afraid to push boundaries, lampooning everything from religion (“Life of Brian”) to history (“Monty Python and the Holy Grail”). His co-writing partnership with Palin yielded some of Python’s most iconic sketches, like the “Four Yorkshiremen” one-upmanship routine.
Beyond Monty Python, Jones thrived, he carved a niche for himself as a writer, penning several books, including well-researched works on medieval history, a subject that had fascinated him since childhood.
Suggested viewing
Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)
Bftv 9.5 / IMDb 8.2
King Arthur leads his knights on a surreal quest for the Holy Grail, facing ill-mannered Frenchmen, a killer rabbit and shrubbery-obsessed knights. Their bonkers journey includes awkward bridge crossings, a confusing head-lopping contest and a showstopping musical number from unlikely warriors.
Top cast: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Michael Palin, Connie Booth.
The Meaning of Life (1983)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.5
This musical comedy explores life’s big questions through a series of absurd sketches. Witness childbirth from the mother’s exasperated viewpoint, endure a bizarre sex education class and grapple with organ transplants gone wrong. All the while, the film cleverly dissects life’s stages with dark humour and catchy songs.
Top cast: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Michael Palin, Terence Bayler.
Monty Python’s Life of Brian (1979)
Bftv 10.0 / IMDb 8.0
Mistaken identity plagues a man born next door to a future messiah. He yearns for a normal life but bumbles into accidental miracles and a devoted following. Roman officials and overzealous rebels add to the chaos as he desperately tries to ditch his newfound fame.
Top cast: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Michael Palin, Carol Cleveland.
Monty Python’s Flying Circus (1969)
Bftv 9.5 / IMDb 8.8
This sketch comedy show throws logic out the window. From ministerial departments specialising in silly walks to arguments over a deceased parrot, it uses wit and surrealism to skewer social norms and find humour in the utterly bizarre.
Top cast: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Michael Palin, Carol Cleveland, Connie Booth.
Monty Python’s and Now for Something
Completely Different (1971)
Bftv 9.5 / IMDb 7.5
A nonsensical collection of absurd sketches, this comedy film brings pet shop arguments, killer mice and upper-class twit competitions to the big screen. Prepare for sing-alongs with lumberjacks, philosophical fish slapping and plenty of “Nudge nudge, wink wink.”
Top cast: John Cleese, Michael Palin, Graham Chapman, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Carol Cleveland, Connie Booth.
Erik the Viking (1989)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 6.1
A thoughtful Viking, weary of a violent world shrouded in eternal twilight, embarks on a quest to find a magical horn. With a ragtag crew and facing absurd obstacles, he journeys to the realm of the gods to plead for peace and restore sunlight to his people.
Top cast: Tim Robbins, John Cleese, Mickey Rooney, Eartha Kitt, Imogen Stubbs, Tsutomu Sekine, Antony Sher, Tim McInnerny, John Gordon Sinclair, Samantha Bond, Jim Broadben, Jim Carter.
Medieval Lives (2004)
Bftv 9.5 / IMDb 8.3
This comedic documentary series shatters myths about the Middle Ages. Hosted by Terry Jones, each episode explores a different medieval profession, from peasant to knight, revealing a surprisingly vibrant and complex era often overshadowed by misconceptions.
Claire Skinner was the youngest daughter of a shopkeeper and an Irish secretary. Skinner battled childhood shyness, however, beneath the surface, a burning ambition flickered. The world of acting called to her and she poured her energy into it, even if it meant neglecting her schoolwork. While she “barely scraped through her A-levels” at Cavendish School, her dedication paid off. She secured a coveted spot at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).
Upon graduation, she landed a dream role with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). Here, she tackled the classics, appearing in productions like “Measure for Measure” and “The Winter’s Tale.”
The 1990s marked a turning point. she landed her first major film role in Mike Leigh’s “Life is Sweet,” a quirky and insightful look at a working-class family. She continued this collaboration with Leigh in his critically acclaimed film “Naked” (1993).
While building her film career, Skinner never abandoned the stage. Her talent was recognised with a prestigious London Critics Circle Theatre Award for Best Actress in 1995 for her performance in “The Glass Menagerie.” But it was television that would propel her to national fame.
Outnumbered with Hugh Dennis
In 2000, Claire Skinner landed the role that would define her career: Sue Brockman in the BBC sitcom “Outnumbered.” The show ran for five seasons, depicting the chaotic yet endearing lives of the Brockman family. Skinner’s portrayal of the perpetually exasperated yet loving mother Sue resonated with audiences across the UK. For her performance, she was nominated for a BAFTA TV Award for Best Female Comedy Performance in 2009.
Claire Skinner married actor Charlie Palmer in 2001 and together they had two sons. However, the couple divorced in 2016. She is now in a relationship with her co-star from “Outnumbered”, Hugh Dennis.
A harried couple tackle the daily battles of raising three opinionated children. Between sibling squabbles, school woes and disastrous social events, the parents struggle to maintain their sanity (and dignity) while holding onto the love that binds their chaotic family.
Top cast: Hugh Dennis, Claire Skinner, Tyger Drew-Honey, Daniel Roche, Ramona Marquez, Samantha Bond, David Ryall, Rosalind Ayres, Hattie Morahan.
A working-class London family juggles dreams and disappointments. The father pursues a risky food venture, the twins grapple with contrasting outlooks and the mother anchors them all with love and practicality, offering a bittersweet portrait of life’s messy beauty.
Top cast: Alison Steadman, Jim Broadbent, Timothy Spall, Claire Skinner, Jane Horrocks, David Thewlis, Moya Brady, Stephen Read, David Neilson.
Fleeing a dark act, a volatile man crashes with an ex-girlfriend, embarking on a hostile odyssey through London. He spouts philosophical barbs and targets strangers with his anger, leaving a trail of unease as he searches for meaning or perhaps forgiveness.
Top cast: David Thewlis, Lesley Sharp, Katrin Cartlidge, Claire Skinner, Greg Cruttwell, Peter Wight, Ewen Bremner, Susan Vidler, Gina McKee, Elizabeth Berrington, Toby Jones.
Born: 27 October 1939, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, England.
An only child, John Cleese’s early life wasn’t filled with laughter, but it did plant the seeds for his future career. He found humour as a defense mechanism, deflecting bullies with his sharp wit. This experience would later translate into his portrayal of pompous and exasperated characters.
Education played a significant role in Cleese’s life. After attending private schools, he went on to study Law at Downing College, Cambridge. It was here that his comedic talents truly flourished, he became a prominent member of the renowned Cambridge Footlights revue group. This prestigious comedy club launched the careers of several British comedy legends, and Cleese was no exception.
After graduating, Cleese’s career took off. He found success as a scriptwriter for BBC radio’s “The Frost Report,” where he collaborated with another future comedy giant, Graham Chapman. Together, they developed a reputation for sharp satire and witty observation. This partnership would become a stepping stone to even bigger things.
In 1969, Cleese co-founded Monty Python, a revolutionary comedy troupe that defied convention and redefined British humour. Monty Python’s Flying Circus, their anarchic sketch show, became a cult classic. Cleese’s deadpan delivery and iconic characters, like the exasperated Ministry worker or the sardonic salesman, cemented his place in comedy history. Monty Python films like “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” and “Life of Brian” further solidified their global influence.
Beyond Monty Python, Cleese carved a successful solo path. He co-wrote and starred in the BBC sitcom “Fawlty Towers,” a hilarious portrayal of a dysfunctional hotel run by the perpetually frustrated Basil Fawlty. Cleese’s portrayal of the character is considered one of the greatest sitcom performances ever. He also appeared in numerous successful films, including “A Fish Called Wanda,” where his comedic talent shone alongside Jamie Lee Curtis and Kevin Kline.
Cleese’s personal life has been as colourful as his career. He has been married four times and has two daughters. While fiercely private, he has been open about his struggles with depression and his views on political correctness, which have sometimes landed him in hot water.
John Cleese’s legacy is undeniable. He is a comedic genius who has brought laughter to millions worldwide. From his early days deflecting bullies with humour to his iconic roles in Monty Python and Fawlty Towers, Cleese has left his mark on the world of comedy.
Suggested viewing
Monty Python’s Flying Circus (1969)
Bftv 9.5 / IMDb 8.8
The absurdist sketch comedy show “Monty Python’s Flying Circus” broke convention with a rapid-fire assault on British life. From ministers battling paperwork to a song celebrating the joy of spam (tinned meat), the Pythons delivered surreal humor, bizarre animation and witty social commentary, forever changing British comedy.
Top cast: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Michael Palin, Carol Cleveland, Connie Booth.
Monty Python’s Life of Brian (1979)
Bftv 10.0 / IMDb 8.0
Mistaken for the Messiah, a reluctant revolutionary navigates Roman Judea, dodging overzealous followers, a fanatical revolutionary group and the frustrated Roman governor, all while questioning his newfound fame and grappling with the absurdity of the situation.
Top cast: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Michael Palin, Carol Cleveland.
The Meaning of Life (1983)
Bftv 9.5 / IMDb 7.5
The Monty Python troupe takes viewers on a surreal, satirical journey through life’s stages, from childbirth and education to middle-aged anxieties and the search for meaning, all punctuated by their signature brand of absurd humour and catchy musical numbers.
Top cast: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Michael Palin, Terence Bayler.
Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)
Bftv 9.5 / IMDb 8.2
King Arthur and his knights embark on a madcap quest for the Holy Grail, encountering bizarre obstacles along the way, from a killer rabbit and rude French men, to a bridge-keeping philosopher and coconut-wielding servants, all delivered with classic Monty Python absurdity.
Top cast: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Michael Palin, Connie Booth, Neil Innes, Carol Cleveland.
A Fish Called Wanda (1988)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.5
A diamond heist crumbles into chaos as a gang of double-crossing thieves – a seductive con artist, a volatile weapons expert, a stuttering animal lover and their frustrated barrister – resort to outrageous schemes and romantic entanglements to find the hidden loot.
Top cast: John Cleese, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kevin Kline, Michael Palin, Maria Aitken, Tom Georgeson, Patricia Hayes, Geoffrey Palmer, Cynthia Cleese.
Fawlty Towers (1975)
Bftv 10.0 / IMDb 8.8
A perpetually exasperated hotelier, his domineering wife and a staff of well-meaning but bumbling employees create a chaotic comedy whirlwind in a seaside hotel as they cope with demanding guests, misunderstandings and Basil’s desperate attempts to maintain a veneer of respectability.
Top cast: John Cleese, Prunella Scales, Andrew Sachs, Connie Booth, Ballard Berkeley, Gilly Flower, Renee Roberts, Brian Hall.
Clockwise (1986)
Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 6.6
A time-obsessed headmaster’s meticulously planned trip to a conference unravels. Missing his train, he commandeers a student’s car, facing escalating mishaps and mounting chaos as he races against the clock, and his increasingly suspicious wife.
Top cast: John Cleese, Sharon Maiden, Penelope Wilton, Alison Steadman, Stephen Moore, Nadia Sawalha, Joan Hickson, John Bardon.
Monty Python’s and Now for Something
Completely Different (1971)
Bftv 9.5 / IMDb 7.5
“And Now for Something Completely Different” is a sketch comedy film based on the television series “Monty Python’s Flying Circus”. It features sketches from the show’s first two series, recreated without an audience for an American audience that hadn’t yet seen the series. The film includes iconic sketches like the “Dead Parrot”, “The Lumberjack Song” and “Nudge Nudge”. Although it initially didn’t break through in the US, it gained a cult following.
Top cast: John Cleese, Michael Palin, Graham Chapman, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Carol Cleveland, Connie Booth.
Erik the Viking (1989)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 6.1
A peaceful Viking yearning for an end to violence seeks a mythical horn to reach Valhalla and plead with the gods. His quest, filled with eccentric companions and bizarre challenges, becomes a humorous exploration of faith, destiny and the absurdity of perpetual warfare.
Top cast: Tim Robbins, John Cleese, Mickey Rooney, Eartha Kitt, Imogen Stubbs, Tsutomu Sekine, Antony Sher, Tim McInnerny, John Gordon Sinclair, Samantha Bond, Jim Broadbent, Jim Carter.
Peter Cook was a trailblazing figure in British comedy and satire. His father, a colonial civil servant and his mother, a solicitor’s daughter, provided a stable upbringing. Cook’s early years were marked by his sharp wit and creativity, traits that would later define his career.
Not Only… But Also – Peter Cook and Dudley Moore
Cook pursued higher education at Pembroke College, Cambridge, where he studied modern languages. It was during his time at Cambridge that he joined the prestigious Footlights Club, a breeding ground for comedic talent. His involvement with Footlights not only developed his comedic skills but also introduced him to future collaborators like Dudley Moore. Cook eventually became the club’s president, a testament to his leadership and talent.
Bedazzled – Peter Cook and Dudley Moore
Cook’s career took off with the satirical stage revue “Beyond the Fringe,” which he co-created with Moore, Alan Bennett and Jonathan Miller. This ground-breaking show challenged societal norms and established Cook as a leading figure in the satire boom of the 1960s. He later co-founded “The Establishment,” a comedy club in Soho, London, which became a hub for satirical performances. On television, Cook and Moore’s show “Not Only… But Also” showcased their unique comedic chemistry, earning them widespread acclaim. Cook also featured in films such as “Bedazzled” (1967) and “The Wrong Box” (1966).
Despite his professional success, Cook’s personal life was tumultuous. He was married three times and struggled with alcoholism, which affected his health and relationships. Nevertheless, his legacy as a pioneer of modern satire remains intact, inspiring generations of comedians and writers. Cook passed away on January 9, 1995, but his influence on comedy endures.
WINNER | Television: Light Entertainment Performance for Not Only But Also… (1965)
This original sketch comedy series broke new ground in the 1960s. Two mismatched friends, one pretentious and the other dim-witted, fuelled surreal and satirical sketches alongside absurd celebrity parodies and philosophical debates, all wrapped in a landmark show that redefined British comedy.
A star-studded benefit concert for Amnesty International features an illustrious line up. From musical performances to comedy sketches, characters like a wacky inventor and a suspicious judge (all suspiciously similar to one comedian) come together to raise awareness and funds for human rights.
Top cast: Peter Cook, John Cleese, Eleanor Bron, Rowan Atkinson, Billy Connolly, Michael Palin, Chris Beetles, David Rappaport.
A charming young man cons his way into a failing pollster company, quickly taking control and turning it into a political powerhouse. Using public opinion to his advantage, he manipulates the political landscape and climbs the ranks, all while raising questions about power, manipulation and the nature of popularity.
Top cast: Peter Cook, Arthur Lowe, Ann Beach, Ronald Fraser, Desmond Walter-Ellis, John Cleese, Dudley Foster, James Cossins, Valerie Leon, Graham Chapman, Dennis Price, Denholm Elliott, Harold Pinter, Michael Trubshawe.
A comedic legend returns with a star-studded TV special sketch show. Joined by Monty Python members and other talents, he brings back classic characters and introduces new ones, all through a rapid-fire series of witty and absurd skits.
Top cast: Peter Cook, John Cleese, Beryl Reid, Rowan Atkinson, Terry Jones, Paula Wilcox, Robert Longden.
A down-on-his-luck fellow in 1960s London makes a Faustian bargain with the devil for seven wishes. The devil, however, takes delight in twisting the wishes in hilarious and disastrous ways, forcing the man to choose between happiness and his soul.
Top cast: Peter Cook, Dudley Moore, Eleanor Bron, Raquel Welch, Barry Humphries, Robert Russell, Alba, Michael Bates, Michael Trubshawe.
Clive Anderson interviews an odd collection of guests: a biscuit inventor with an alien abduction story, a football manager from Scunthorpe, a disgraced judge and a rock legend. They all look remarkably similar to the famous comedian, Peter Cook. S8-E10.
Terence Stamp was born in London’s East End, his upbringing was a world away from the red carpets and Hollywood premieres he would later walk. The son of a tugboat captain, Stamp’s early years were shaped by working-class resilience and a strong connection to his family, particularly his mother. While his formal education ended after high school, a deep love for cinema ignited by childhood cinema outings fueled a burning ambition for a life on screen.
Billy Budd – Terence Stamp
Despite lacking formal training, Stamp’s undeniable charisma and striking good looks landed him a scholarship to the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art. A chance encounter during his second year proved life-changing. Director Peter Ustinov was so impressed by Terence’s raw potential that he cast him in the lead role of his upcoming film, “Billy Budd” (1962). This breakout performance earned Terence an Academy Award nomination and catapulted him into international stardom.
The 1960s became Terence’s defining decade. He embodied the cool sophistication of the era, captivating audiences with his brooding persona and nuanced performances. Films like “The Collector” (1965) and “Modesty Blaise” (1966) showcased his ability to play both dramatic complexity and playful wit.
Terence Stamp’s career continued to flourish throughout the following decades. He seamlessly transitioned between Hollywood blockbusters and independent gems. He brought menacing intensity to the role of General Zod in “Superman II” (1980), a stark contrast to the voice of Jor-El, Superman’s wise father, he provided in the television series “Smallville” (2001).
His versatility shone through in films like “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert” (1994), a cult classic where he played a transgender performer with flamboyant flair. He never shied away from exploring complex characters, captivating audiences with his depth and emotional range.
Far from the Madding Crowd – Terence Stamp and Julie Christie
Despite his public persona, Terence Stamp has always maintained a certain mystique. He has been married once and remains fiercely private about his personal life. Known for his strong opinions and independent spirit, he has never been afraid to speak his mind. A lifelong advocate for health and wellness, he embraced alternative lifestyles long before they became mainstream.
Terence Stamp’s career spans over six decades. From his meteoric rise as a young heartthrob to his enduring presence as a respected character actor, he has left his mark on cinema. His legacy goes beyond his captivating performances. He challenged conventions, defied stereotypes, and paved the way for a more nuanced portrayal of masculinity on screen. Terence Stamp’s journey is a testament to the power of raw talent, unwavering ambition and a life lived on one’s own terms.
A former gangster living a cushy life in Spain is hauled back into the underworld by hitmen tasked with taking him to Paris. The journey, fraught with unexpected twists and dark humour, forces a hardened criminal to confront his past and the hitmen to question their loyalty.
Top cast: Terence Stamp, John Hurt, Tim Roth, Laura del Sol, Fernando Rey, Jim Broadbent, Ken Campbell, Bill Hunter.
A handsome sailor with a stammering innocence is forced into service on a war ship, his optimism clashing with the cynical crew and a sadistic master-at-arms. A false accusation and a moment of rage lead to a tragic choice for the captain, caught between justice and the preservation of order.
Top cast: Terence Stamp, Robert Ryan, Peter Ustinov, Melvyn Douglas, Paul Rogers, John Neville, David McCallum, Ronald Lewis.
A lonely man, fixated on a beautiful art student, kidnaps her and imprisons her in his basement. As she fights for survival and sanity, a twisted game of power unfolds, forcing both captor and captive to confront their deepest desires and darkest fears.
Top cast: Terence Stamp, Samantha Eggar, Mona Washbourne, Maurice Dallimore, Kenneth More.
An independent woman inherits a farm, attracting the affections of a devoted shepherd, a gruff bachelor and a reckless soldier. Through love, loss and hard lessons, she follows a path towards self-discovery and finding the right kind of love.
Top cast: Julie Christie, Terence Stamp, Peter Finch, Alan Bates, Fiona Walker, Prunella Ransome, Alison Leggatt, Paul Dawkins.
A young working-class woman in London lives a life of hardship and broken relationships. Despite dreams of a better life, she falls into a cycle of abuse and fleeting hope, clinging to motherhood as her one constant.
Top cast: Carol White, Terence Stamp, John Bindon, Queenie Watts, Kate Williams, Bill Dean and Michael Bangerter.
A team of British counter-intelligence agents investigate the suspicious deaths of students, uncovering a web of espionage and Cold War tensions. As they play a dangerous game of deception, they must expose a double agent before it’s too late.
Top cast: Terence Stamp, Carmen Du Sautoy, Robin Sachs, Michael Culver, John Horsley, Oscar Quitak.
Mini Biography
