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Last updated on the 7 May 2025 by Maeve
Mini Biography
Born: 9 September 1960, Hammersmith, London, England.
Hugh Grant was born to Fynvola Susan MacLean and Captain James Murray Grant. His father was a former officer in the Seaforth Highlanders, while his mother worked as a teacher. Grant grew up in a middle-class family and attended Hogarth Primary School before moving on to St Peter’s School, an independent school in Hammersmith.
Grant discovered his passion for acting at a young age and became involved in school productions. He later attended Latymer Upper School in West London, where he continued to develop his acting skills. Grant’s interest in performing arts led him to pursue a degree in English literature at New College, Oxford. During his time at Oxford, he became a member of the Oxford University Dramatic Society and performed in various stage productions.
After completing his studies at Oxford, Grant ventured into acting professionally. He made his film debut in 1982 with the film “Privileged,” which was followed by several minor roles in television and film. However, it was his breakthrough role as Charles in the 1994 romantic comedy “Four Weddings and a Funeral” that catapulted Grant to international stardom.
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Grant established himself as a leading actor in romantic comedies. His charismatic performances in films such as “Notting Hill” (1999), “Bridget Jones’s Diary” (2001), and “Love Actually” (2003) endeared him to audiences worldwide. Grant’s ability to blend humour with vulnerability made him a sought-after actor in the genre.
In addition to his successful acting career, Grant also ventured into film production. He co-founded the production company, “Simian Films,” which produced critically acclaimed films such as “About a Boy” (2002) and “The History Boys” (2006).
Hugh Grant’s personal life has often been the subject of media attention. He has had several high-profile relationships, including his long-term partnership with actress Elizabeth Hurley. Grant has five children, including two with his former partner Tinglan Hong and three with his wife, television producer Anna Eberstein, whom he married in 2018.
Despite his reputation as a private individual, Hugh Grant has been actively involved in various philanthropic endeavours. He is a patron of several charitable organisations, including the Elton John AIDS Foundation and Marie Curie Cancer Care.
Suggested viewing
The Englishman Who Went Up a Hill But Came Down a Mountain (1995)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.6
An English cartographer arrives in a small Welsh village to measure its mountain, only to declare it a hill, deeply offending the proud locals. Determined to restore their mountain’s honour, the villagers band together in a heartwarming and humorous effort to literally build it back up to proper mountain status before the Englishmen depart.
Top cast: Hugh Grant, Tara Fitzgerald, Ian Hart, Tudor Vaughan, Kenneth Griffith, Robert Pugh, Colm Meaney, Ian McNeice.
A Very English Scandal (2018)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.7
“A Very English Scandal” is a gripping true story of political scandal and intrigue. It follows the rise and fall of British politician Jeremy Thorpe, who becomes entangled in a scandalous affair with a young man named Norman Scott. Filled with deception, conspiracy and courtroom drama, it explores the darkside of British politics in the 1970s.
Top cast: Hugh Grant, Ben Whishaw, Alex Jennings, Patricia Hodge, Monica Dolan, Jason Watkins, Eve Myles, Michele Dotrice.
Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.1
“Four Weddings and a Funeral” is a delightful romantic comedy that follows the life of Charles, a charming but commitment-phobic Englishman, as he tackles four weddings and a funeral. Along the way, he falls in love with an enchanting American woman named Carrie, leading to a series of comedic and heartfelt encounters that test their relationship.
Top cast: Hugh Grant, Andie MacDowell, James Fleet, Simon Callow, John Hannah, Kristin Scott Thomas, David Bower, Charlotte Coleman, Anna Chancellor.
The Gentlemen (2020)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.8
“The Gentlemen” is a crime-comedy film that follows the story of an American expat, Mickey Pearson, who built a successful marijuana empire in London. When he decides to sell his business, a series of schemes, blackmail and unexpected twists ensue, involving a colourful cast of characters in a witty and fast-paced narrative.
Top cast: Matthew McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, Michelle Dockery, Henry Golding, Jeremy Strong, Colin Farrell, Hugh Grant, Eddie Marsan, Chidi Ajufo.
Love Actually (2003)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.6
“Love Actually” is a romantic comedy that weaves together the lives of various characters during the Christmas season. From a newly elected British Prime Minister to a young boy with a first crush, the film explores different forms of love, showcasing heartwarming and humorous moments that remind us of the power of love in our lives.
Top cast: Alan Rickman, Bill Nighy, Emma Thompson, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Liam Neeson, Martine McCutchen, Andrew Lincoln.
About a Boy (2002)
Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 7.1
“About a Boy” is a heartwarming comedy-drama that revolves around the unlikely friendship between Will Freeman, a carefree bachelor who lives off his father’s royalties and Marcus Brewer, a socially awkward young boy. Through their unique bond, they both learn valuable lessons about life, love and the importance of genuine connections.
Top cast: Hugh Grant, Nicholas Hoult, Toni Colette, Rachel Weisz, Natalia Tenant, Victoria Smurfit, Augustus Prew, Sharon Small, Madison Cook.
Notting Hill (1999)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.2
“Notting Hill” is a heartwarming romantic comedy that revolves around the unexpected love story between William Thacker, a humble bookstore owner and Anna Scott, a famous Hollywood actress. Their worlds collide in the vibrant neighbourhood of Notting Hill, London, leading to a charming and often humorous portrayal of love, fame and second chances.
Top cast: Julia Roberts, Hugh Grant, Gina McKee, Tim McInnerny, Rhys Ifans Emma Chambers, Richard McCabe, Hugh Bonneville, James Dreyfus.
