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Last updated on the 14 June 2025 by Maeve
Mini Biography
Born: 16 February 1964, Salford, Greater Manchester, England.
Christopher Eccleston grew up in a working-class family, the youngest of three brothers. His early life was rooted in the everyday realities of Greater Manchester, an environment that would later inform the grounded intensity he brings to his roles. Educationally, Eccleston pursued his passion for acting, training at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London.
Christopher Eccleston’s career highlights are marked by a diverse range of roles across television, film and theatre. He first gained significant recognition for his powerful performances in British television dramas like “Our Friends in the North” (1996), where his portrayal of Nicky Hutchinson cemented his reputation as a serious dramatic actor.
This was followed by his iconic, albeit brief, turn as the Ninth Doctor in the revived “Doctor Who” series in 2005, a role that brought him international acclaim and introduced him to a new generation of fans. Beyond these, his film work includes appearances in “Shallow Grave” (1994), “Gone in 60 Seconds” (2000), and “28 Days Later” (2002), showcasing his versatility in both independent and mainstream productions. His stage career also boasts notable performances, underscoring his commitment to the craft.
In his personal life, Eccleston has maintained a relatively private profile, though he has been open about his past struggles with mental health, particularly depression, which he documented in his autobiography, “I Love The Bones of You.” This candidness reflects a deep-seated authenticity that mirrors his acting.
Suggested viewing
Let Him Have It (1991)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.1
This film recounts the true story of Derek Bentley, a young man with learning difficulties caught in the crossfire of a tragic 1950s crime. When a police officer is killed during a botched burglary, the justice system’s rigid application leads to a highly controversial verdict.
Top cast: Christopher Eccleston, Paul Reynolds, Tom Courtenay, Eileen Atkins, Clare Holman, Tom Bell, Mark McGann, Michael Gough.
Shallow Grave (1994)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.3
In the dark comedy thriller “Shallow Grave”, three roommates discover a suitcase filled with money in their new flatmate’s room after his sudden death. Greed and paranoia consume them as they descend into a web of deceit, leading to disastrous consequences that test their relationships and morality.
Top cast: Kerry Fox, Christopher Eccleston, Ewan McGregor, Ken Stott, Keith Allen, Colin McCredie, Peter Mullan, Leonard O’Malley.
Our Friends in the North (1996)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.6
“Our Friends in the North” is an epic British drama series spanning four decades, following the lives of four friends from Newcastle upon Tyne. As they face personal and political challenges, their friendship endures against a backdrop of social change, corruption and betrayal in post-war Britain.
Top cast: Christopher Eccleston, Gina McKee, Mark Strong, Daniel Craig, Peter Vaughan, David Bradley, Malcolm McDowell, Freda Dowie.
Cracker (1996)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.6
Cracker sees a brilliant but flawed criminal psychologist, Fitz, brought in to assist the Greater Manchester Police with their most challenging cases. Battling his own personal demons, including a gambling addiction and a stormy marriage, Fitz uses his unconventional methods and sharp intellect to delve into the minds of perpetrators, often clashing with the more by-the-book detectives. His abrasive yet effective style uncovers dark truths, leaving a lasting impact on all involved.
Top cast: Robbie Coltrane, Christopher Eccleston, Geraldine Somerville, Lorcan Cranitch, Barbara Flynn, Kieran O’Brien, Ricky Tomlinson, Susan Lynch.
Doctor Who (2005)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.6
“Doctor Who” is a long-running British science fiction series about an alien Time Lord known as the Doctor, who travels through time and space in a blue police box called the TARDIS. The Doctor, accompanied by various companions, faces thrilling adventures and battles against foes while exploring the wonders of the universe.
Top cast: Christopher Eccleston, Billie Piper, Camille Coduri, Mark Benton.
