Paul McGann

Last updated on the 17 April 2024 by Maeve

Paul McGann headshot

Mini Biography

Born: 14 November 1959, Kensington, Liverpool, England. 

Paul McGann hails from a family of five siblings, with his brother Mark McGann also making a name for himself in the entertainment industry.

In terms of education, Paul McGann attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), one of the most prestigious drama schools in the United Kingdom.

Paul McGann’s breakout role came in 1986 when he starred in the British television serial “The Monocled Mutineer,” where he earned critical acclaim for his performance as the lead character, Percy Toplis. This role brought him widespread recognition and paved the way for numerous opportunities in both television and film.

One of Paul McGann’s most iconic roles came in 1996 when he portrayed the Eighth Doctor in the Doctor Who television film. Despite the film being a standalone production, McGann’s portrayal of the Doctor was well-received by fans and critics alike, earning him a dedicated following within the Doctor Who fandom. McGann’s depiction of the Eighth Doctor remains a beloved and enduring part of the show’s legacy.

In addition to his television work, Paul McGann has also made notable contributions to the world of film. He has appeared in a diverse range of movies, including “Withnail and I,” where he delivered a memorable performance as the eccentric character Marwood.

 

Suggested viewing

 

Doctor Who: The Movie (1996)

Doctor Who: The Movie poster

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 6.3

The Seventh Doctor is mortally wounded, triggering his regeneration. The Master plans to steal the Doctor’s remaining lives. He manipulates events around a human, Grace, as the Doctor battles amnesia. Together, they hope to prevent the Master’s plans and save the universe.

Top cast: Paul McGann, Eric Roberts, Daphne Ashbrook, Sylvester McCoy, Yee Jee Tso, John Novak, Michael David Simms, Catherine Lough Haggquist.

 

Withnail & I (1987)

Withnail & I poster

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.5

Withnail & I follows two struggling actors in 1969 as they face various misadventures while trying to escape their mundane lives through a weekend getaway. Amidst chaos, they confront their personal demons, strained friendship and uncertain futures, culminating in a bittersweet realisation of their stagnant existence and unfulfilled dreams.

Starring Richard E. Grant, Paul McGann, Richard Griffiths, Ralph Brown, Michael Elphick, Daragh O’Malley, Michael Wardle, Una Brandon-Jones.

 

Annika (2021)

Annika

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.1

DI Annika Strandhed, characterised by her sharp wit and enigmatic personality, leads a newly formed specialised Marine Homicide Unit (MHU) responsible for probing into mysterious, brutal and puzzling murders in Scotland.

Top cast: Nicola Walker, Silvie Furneaux, Katie Leung, Jamie Sives, Kate Dickie, Varada Sethu, Paul McGann, Saskia Ashdown, Hannah Donaldson.

 

Our Mutual Friend (1998)

Our Mutual Friend

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.1

A presumed death throws a wealthy inheritance into question, sparking greed and deception in Victorian London. Two love stories blossom amidst the social inequalities, with newfound wealth testing loyalties and the true meaning of love.

Top cast: Paul McGann, Keeley Hawes, Anna Friel, Pam Ferris, Kenneth Cranham, Timothy Spall, Anthony Calf, Doon Mackichan, David Bradley.

More Dickens

David Copperfield poster     Bleak House poster     Little Dorrit, Claire Foy 

 

 

Full filmography (@Wikipedia)

 

 Paul McGann Gallery

 

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