Last updated on the 11 March 2025 by Evandrus

Mini Biography

Born: 12 December 1949, Caterham, Surrey, England.

Bill Nighy, born William Francis Nighy in Caterham, Surrey, England, had a modest upbringing. His father, Alfred Martin Nighy, managed a car garage after working in the family chimney sweeping business, while his mother, Catherine Josephine Nighy, was a psychiatric nurse of Irish descent. Raised in a Roman Catholic household, Nighy served as an altar boy during his youth. Nighy attended the John Fisher School, a Roman Catholic grammar school in Purley. Here, he developed a passion for literature, particularly enjoying the works of Ernest Hemingway. Despite his interest in writing, he left school with only two O-levels in English Language and English Literature. His initial aspiration was to become a journalist, but lacking the necessary qualifications, he worked as a messenger for a magazine called Field. During this period, he spent some time in Paris, attempting to write a novel, but eventually returned to England when funds ran out. Determined to pursue a career in acting, Nighy enrolled at the Guildford School of Acting. His training there laid the foundation for his extensive career in stage, television, and film. Nighy made his stage debut in 1977 at the London Theatre, and over the years, he has become renowned for his versatility and distinctive voice. On a personal note, Nighy was in a long-term relationship with actress Diana Quick, with whom he has a daughter, Mary Nighy, born in 1984. Mary has followed in her father’s footsteps, establishing herself as an actress and filmmaker. Despite their separation in 2008, Nighy and Quick remain on amicable terms. Nighy’s personal life is marked by his love for reading and his dedication to his craft. He has often spoken about his struggles with anxiety and how acting has been both a challenge and a solace for him. His journey from a small-town boy to an acclaimed actor is a testament to his resilience and passion for the arts.

Bill Nighy had a modest upbringing. His father, Alfred Martin Nighy, managed a car garage after working in the family chimney sweeping business, while his mother, Catherine Josephine Nighy, was a psychiatric nurse of Irish descent. Raised in a Roman Catholic household, Nighy served as an altar boy during his youth.

Bill Nighy attended the John Fisher School, a Roman Catholic grammar school in Purley. Here, he developed a passion for literature, particularly enjoying the works of Ernest Hemingway. Despite his interest in writing, he left school with only two O-levels in English Language and English Literature. His initial aspiration was to become a journalist, but lacking the necessary qualifications, he worked as a messenger for a magazine called Field. During this period, he spent some time in Paris, attempting to write a novel, but eventually returned to England when funds ran out.

Determined to pursue a career in acting, Nighy enrolled at the Guildford School of Acting. His training there laid the foundation for his extensive career in stage, television and film. Nighy made his stage debut in 1977 at the London Theatre, and over the years, he has become renowned for his versatility and distinctive voice.

On a personal note, Bill Nighy was in a long-term relationship with actress Diana Quick, with whom he has a daughter, Mary Nighy, born in 1984. Mary has followed in her father’s footsteps, establishing herself as an actress and film maker. Despite their separation in 2008, Nighy and Quick remain on amicable terms.

Bill Nighy’s personal life is marked by his love for reading and his dedication to his craft. He has often spoken about his struggles with anxiety and how acting has been both a challenge and a solace for him. His journey from a small-town boy to an acclaimed actor is a testament to his resilience and passion for the arts.

WINNER | Television: Actor for State Of Play (2004) | Film: Actor in a Supporting Role for Love Actually (2004)

Suggested viewing

The Beautiful Game (2024)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.3

A former youth football trainer saves a talented but troubled striker from an angry parent and introduces him to a team of English homeless footballers. Together, they travel to Rome to compete in the Homeless World Cup. The journey challenges them to confront their pasts and find redemption through the beautiful game.

Top cast: Bill Nighy, Micheal Ward, Valeria Golino, Susan Wokoma, Tom Vaughan-Lawlor, Callum Scott Howells, Kit Young, Sheyi Cole, Robin Nazari.

The Limehouse Golem (2016)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.3

The Limehouse Golem is a dark and atmospheric murder mystery set in Victorian London. A series of brutal and gruesome killings terrorise the city, leaving its residents gripped with fear. Inspector John Kildare, determined to catch the elusive killer, embarks on a twisted investigation that uncovers shocking secrets and hidden motives. As the body count rises, Kildare races against time to solve the case before more innocent lives are lost.

Top cast: Bill Nighy, Olivia Cooke, Douglas Booth, Daniel Mays, Sam Reid, María Valverde, Eddie Marsan, Henry Goodman, Morgan Watkins.

Living (2022)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.9

In the backdrop of post-World War II London, “Living” follows Mr. Williams, a dedicated civil servant grappling with a profound sense of emptiness. Burdened by paperwork at work and plagued by loneliness at home, his life lacks purpose. However, when faced with a devastating medical diagnosis, he embarks on a journey to find meaning before it slips away forever. This poignant drama explores the eternal quest for fulfillment in an ever-changing world.

Top cast: Bill Nighy, Diana Hardcastle, Aimee Lou Wood, Alex Sharp, Tom Burke, Adrian Rawlins, Oliver Chris, Hubert Burton, Zoe Boyle, Barney Fishwick.

The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2015)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.5

The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel is a heartwarming comedy-drama that explores the lives of a group of British retirees living in India. As Sonny strives to expand his hotel business, the residents find love, friendship, and personal growth. With colourful characters and delightful charm, this film captures the joys and challenges of embracing new beginnings at any age.

Top cast: Alison Steadman, Dev Patel, Judi Dench, Richard Gere, Maggie Smith, Bill Nighy, Celia Imrie, Penelope Wilton, Ronald Pickup, Diana Hardcastle.

About Time (2013)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.8

In “About Time” , Tim discovers he has the power to travel through time. With this ability, he embarks on a journey to find love and create his ideal life. However, as he digs deeper into altering the past, Tim realises that living in the present moment is ultimately what matters most. This heartfelt romantic comedy explores themes of love, family and cherishing every second we have.

Top cast: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy, Tom Hollander, Margot Robbie, Lydia Wilson, Lindsay Duncan, Richard Cordery, Joshua McGuire, Tom Hughes, Vanessa Kirby.

Shaun of the Dead (2004)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.4

Shaun of the Dead is a horror comedy that follows Shaun, an aimless man who finds himself amidst a zombie apocalypse. Determined to save his loved ones and win back his ex-girlfriend, Shaun embarks on a comical quest filled with outrageous encounters and unexpected friendships. This film cleverly blends humour and gore while offering a fresh take on the zombie genre.

Top cast: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Kate Ashfield, Lucy Davis, Dylan Moran, Penelope Wilton, Bill Nighy, Peter Serafinowicz, Jessica Hynes.

Dad’s Army (2016)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 5.4

In a small British coastal town during World War II, a group of eccentric and bumbling local men form the Home Guard to protect their community from potential German invasions. Led by an enthusiastic but clueless bank manager, they stumble through training exercises and comedic mishaps while trying to prove their worth in this hilarious and heartwarming comedy adaptation of “Dad’s Army.”

Top cast: Bill Nighy, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Michael Gambon, Toby Jones, Mark Gatiss, Sarah Lancashire, Tom Courtenay, Blake Harrison, Alison Steadman.

Their Finest (2015)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 6.5

During the chaos of World War II, a talented female scriptwriter is recruited to create propaganda films for the British government. As she passes through sexism and personal challenges, she finds herself entangled in a bittersweet romance with a fellow writer. “Their Finest” is a captivating tale that explores love, resilience and the power of storytelling in times of adversity.

Top cast: Gemma Arterton, Sam Claflin, Bill Nighy, Jack Houston, Helen McCrory, Eddie Marsan, Jake Lacy, Rachael Stirling, Henry Goodman, Jeremy Irons.

Love Actually (2003)

Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 7.6

Love Actually is a heartwarming ensemble film that explores various intertwining love stories during the holiday season. Set in London, it follows a diverse cast of characters as they experience the joys and complexities of love – from unrequited crushes to long-lasting marriages. With humour, warmth, and a touch of bitter sweetness, this romantic comedy reminds us that love can be found in unexpected places and moments.

Top cast: Alan Rickman, Bill Nighy, Emma Thompson, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Liam Neeson, Martine McCutchen, Andrew Lincoln.

Pride (2014)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.8

Based on a true story, Pride follows the unlikely alliance between LGBTQ+ activists and striking coal miners in 1980s Britain. As these two seemingly different communities come together to fight against oppression and prejudice, they discover the power of unity, friendship and acceptance. With humour and heart, this inspiring film celebrates the triumph of solidarity in the face of adversity.

Top cast: George Mackay, Ben Schnetzer, Freddie Fox, Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton, Dominic West, Paddy Considine, Andrew Scott, Joseph Gilgun.

The Girl in the Café (2005)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.4

Lawrence, a shy and reserved government employee, meets Gina, an enigmatic woman he encounters in a café. As their unlikely relationship unfolds against the backdrop of an important G8 summit, they embark on a journey that challenges societal norms and addresses global issues while exploring love, sacrifice and the power of individual voices to make a difference in the world.

Top cast: Bill Nighy, Kelly Macdonald, Meneka Das, Anton Lesser, Paul Ritter, Ken Stott, Penny Downie, Damon Younger, Nína Dögg Filippusdóttir.

Emma. (2020)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.7

In a picturesque English countryside, Emma Woodhouse, a charming and privileged young woman, amuses herself by meddling in the love lives of those around her. As she navigates through misunderstandings and misjudgments, Emma discovers the consequences of her actions while learning valuable lessons about love, friendship and self-discovery in this delightful adaptation of Jane Austen’s timeless novel.

Top cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Johnny Flynn, Josh O’connor, Callum Turner, Mia Goth, Miranda Hart, Bill Nighy, Rupert Graves, Gemma Whelan.

Page Eight (2011)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.8

Page Eight is a gripping espionage thriller that delves into the complex world of British intelligence. The film follows Johnny Worricker, a seasoned MI5 officer, as he uncovers a shocking secret that involves high-ranking officials and threatens national security. With his life on the line, Worricker must traverse through treacherous waters to protect himself and those he cares about.

Top cast: Bill Nighy, Rachel Weisz, Ralph Fiennes, Michael Gambon, Felicity Jones, Tom Hughes, Judy Davis, Rakhee Thakrar, Saskia Reeves.

The Constant Gardener (2005)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.4

Justin Quayle, a mild-mannered British diplomat, investigates the murder of his activist wife in Kenya. As he delves deeper into her mysterious death, he uncovers a web of corruption and corporate conspiracy that reaches far beyond what he could have imagined. With determination and resilience, Justin risks everything to uncover the truth and seek justice for his beloved wife’s untimely demise.

Top cast: Ralph Fiennes, Rachel Weisz, Danny Huston, Bill Nighy, Pete Postlethwaite, Richard McCabe, Donald Sumpter, Juliet Aubrey, Hubert Koundé.

Gideon’s Daughter (2005)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.0

A successful but emotionally distant public relations professional confronts a personal crisis when his estranged daughter threatens to leave his life. As he grapples with the consequences of his past choices and the hollowness of his career, he encounters a woman struggling with her own grief. Through their interactions, he is forced to confront his regrets and attempt to rebuild his fractured relationships.

Top cast: Bill Nighy, Miranda Richardson, Emily Blunt, Robert Lindsay, Ronni Ancona, Tom Hardy, Tom Goodman-Hill, Joanna Page.

State of Play (2003)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.3

State of Play follows a newspaper investigation into the suspicious death of a political researcher. The investigation uncovers a hidden connection to the murder of a teenager, leading the reporter down a dark path of government corruption and conspiracy. As he digs deeper, the reporter finds himself questioning his loyalties and forced to choose between protecting his friend, a high-ranking politician and exposing the truth.

Top cast: David Morrissey, Bill Nighy, Kelly Macdonald, John Simm, Polly Walker, Philip Glenister, James McAvoy, Michael Feast, Amelia Bullmore.

Bill Nighy full filmography @ Wikipedia