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Last updated on the 12 March 2025 by Evandrus
Mini Biography
Born: 24 May 1949, Holton cum Beckering, Lincolnshire, England.Â
Jim Broadbent was the younger son of Doreen “Dee” Findlay, a sculptor and Roy Laverick Broadbent, who worked as an artist, sculptor, furniture maker and interior designer. His parents were both amateur actors and played a key role in establishing the Holton Players acting troupe.
Broadbent attended the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), which set the foundation for a successful career in film, television and stage. He became well-known for his character roles and has received critical acclaim for his performances throughout his career.
Broadbent began his acting career in theatre and later moved to television and film. He gained recognition for his role in the 1999 film “Topsy-Turvy,” which earned him a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
Jim Broadbent continued to showcase his versatility as an actor, appearing in various genres such as drama, comedy and fantasy. He played significant roles in films such as “Moulin Rouge!” (2001) and “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” (2009).
In 2002, Broadbent won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of John Bayley in the film “Iris.” He also received critical acclaim for his role in the television series “Longford” (2006), which earned him a BAFTA Award for Best Actor.
Jim Broadbent’s other notable works include “The Iron Lady” (2011), “Cloud Atlas” (2012) and “Paddington” (2014). He also lent his voice to various animated films such as “Arthur Christmas” (2011) and “The Little Prince” (2015).
Aside from his acting career, Broadbent is also a writer and has published several books, including “Dull Margaret” (2016) and “The Sense of an Ending” (2017).
Broadbent has been wed to painter and ex-theatre designer Anastasia Lewis since 1987. Although he has no children of his own, Lewis has two sons from a previous relationship. He mainly resides in the Lincolnshire Wolds and identifies as an atheist.
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| WINNER | Television: Actor for Longford (2007) |Â Film: Actor in a Supporting Role for Moulin Rouge (2002)Â |
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| WINNER | Best Supporting Actor for Iris (2002) |
Suggested viewing |
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry (2023)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.8
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry follows the transformative journey of a retired man who embarks on a spontaneous walk from his home to visit a dying friend. As he travels, Harold reflects on his past decisions, relationships and the meaning of life. His quest becomes not only a physical journey but also a profound exploration of regret, forgiveness and the connections that shape our existence. Along the way, he encounters diverse characters who influence his perspective, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of love, purpose and the power of unexpected journeys in healing the soul.
Top cast: Jim Broadbent, Penelope Wilton, Earl Cave, Linda Bassett, Joseph Mydell, Monika Gossmann, Claire Rushbrook.
Similar to
Iris (2002)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.1
“Iris” is a poignant exploration of Alzheimer’s disease, following the life of Iris Murdoch, a renowned philosopher and novelist. As the disease progresses, her once vibrant mind gradually fades, leaving her husband John to grapple with the loss of the woman he loves. The film beautifully captures the emotional journey of both Iris and John, highlighting the devastating impact of dementia on individuals and their loved ones.
Top cast: Judi Dench, Kate Winslet, Jim Broadbent, Penelope Wilton, Hugh Bonneville, Juliet Aubrey, Timothy West, Samuel West, .
The Duke (2021)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.9
“The Duke” is a comedy-drama based on a true story. It revolves around Kempton Bunton, a 60-year-old taxi driver who steals a portrait of the Duke of Wellington from the National Gallery in London. Motivated by a desire to highlight the injustice of the tax system, he negotiates with the authorities to return it in exchange for a ransom for charity.
Top cast: Jim Broadbent, Helen Mirren, Fionn Whitehead, Matthew Goode, Aimee Kelly, Charlotte Spencer, Jack Bandeira, Anna Maxwell Martin, Sian Clifford.
Longford (2006)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.5
“Longford” is a biographical drama film based on the life of Lord Longford. It portrays his controversial relationship with Myra Hindley, one of the infamous perpetrators of the Moors Murders. The film examines Longford’s unwavering belief in redemption and his efforts to secure Hindley’s release from prison, despite public outrage and opposition.
Top cast: Jim Broadbent, Lindsay Duncan, Samantha Morton, Andy Serkis, Kate Miles, Alex Blake, Sarah Crowden, Robert Pugh, Anton Rodgers.
Hot Fuzz (2007)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.8
“Hot Fuzz” is a action-comedy film directed by Edgar Wright. It follows Nicholas Angel, a skilled London police officer who is transferred to a seemingly idyllic village. However, he soon discovers a dark secret when a series of bizarre accidents occur. With humour and action, Angel uncovers a twisted conspiracy.
Top cast: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Jim Broadbent, Paddy Considine, Rafe Spall, Kevin Eldon, Olivia Coleman, Bill Bailey, Karl Johnson.
Another Year (2010)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.4
“Another Year” is a poignant drama directed by Mike Leigh. The film follows a year in the life of a contented couple, Tom and Gerri, as they navigate the joys and sorrows of their relationships with friends and family. Through the changing seasons, it explores themes of love, loneliness and the complexities of human connections.
Top cast: Jim Broadbent, Ruth Sheen, Lesley Manville, Oliver Maltman, Peter Wight, David Bradley, Karina Fernandez, Martin Savage.
Topsy-Turvy (1999)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.4
“Topsy-Turvy” is a musical drama directed by Mike Leigh. Set in the late 19th century, it follows the lives of Gilbert and Sullivan, a famous Victorian-era theatrical partnership. Facing a series of professional and personal challenges, they must find inspiration and overcome obstacles to create their next masterpiece.
Top cast: Jim Broadbent, Allan Corduner, Timothy Spall, Lesley Manville, Ron Cook, Wendy Nottingham, Kevin McKidd, Shirley Henderson, Dorothy Atkinson.
Life Is Sweet (1990)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.4
In Thatcher-era London, a working class family grapples with life’s bittersweet complexities. The optimistic mum juggles home and work, while the dad dreams of a food van escape. Their twin daughters diverge: one bookish and eager, the other rebellious and lost. Amongst summer heat and family chaos, they face personal journeys, financial woes and uncertain futures, finding humour and resilience in the everyday dance of life.
Top cast: Alison Steadman, Jim Broadbent, Timothy Spall, Claire Skinner, Jane Horrocks, David Thewlis, Moya Brady, Stephen Read, David Neilson.
