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Last updated on the 7 June 2025 by Maeve
Mini Biography
Born: 10 March 1983, East Dulwich, London, England.
Rafe Spall is the second of three children of actor Timothy Spall, he was immersed in the performing arts from an early age. His name, Rafe, even comes from a character his father played in a Royal Shakespeare Company production. Spall attended Haberdashers’ Aske’s Hatcham College, where he struggled academically, describing his school life as “rough” and admitting to poor grades. Despite not getting into his chosen drama schools, including RADA, he joined the National Youth Theatre at 15 and began his professional acting career at 19.
Rafe Spall has built an extensive and varied career in film and television. Early in his film career, he appeared in Edgar Wright’s comedies like “Shaun of the Dead” (2004) and “Hot Fuzz” (2007). He gained further recognition for roles in films such as “One Day” (2011), Ridley Scott’s “Prometheus” (2012), Ang Lee’s “Life of Pi” (2012), and “The Big Short” (2015). More recently, he has been seen in major blockbusters like “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom” (2018) and “Men in Black: International” (2019).
On television, notable roles include Pete Griffiths in “Pete versus Life” (2010–2011), Jay Wratten in “The Shadow Line” (2011), and DS Nick Bailey in “The Salisbury Poisonings” (2020). He currently stars in the Apple TV+ comedy series “Trying”.
Concerning his personal life, Rafe Spall was married to actress Elize du Toit from 2010 until their reported separation in 2021; they share three children. More recently, Spall has been in a relationship with his Trying co-star, Esther Smith.
He has spoken about the pressures in the acting industry regarding physical appearance, having significantly lost weight earlier in his career to broaden his acting opportunities. Despite his public profile, Spall has expressed a desire to keep his personal life private, focusing on his work and family.
Suggested viewing
Black Mirror (2014)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 9.1
“Black Mirror: White Christmas” is a television special that intertwines three dark and thought-provoking stories. Set in a dystopian future, it explores themes of isolation, technology and the consequences of our actions. With its chilling narrative and mind-bending twists, the episode reflects on the darker side of human nature and the perils of modern society.
Top cast: Jon Hamm, Rafe Spall, Oona Chaplin, Natalia Tena, Janet Montgomery, Rasmus Hardiker, Dan Li, Ken Drury.
Pete Versus Life (2010)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.7
“Pete Versus Life” is a comedy series about Pete, an unlucky sports journalist. The show humorously depicts Pete’s struggles in navigating relationships, work and everyday situations. With its funny and relatable portrayal of Pete’s misadventures, the series captures the ups and downs of his quest to conquer the challenges of life.
Top cast: Rafe Spall, Darren Boyd, Robert Popper, Jamie Blackley, Simon Greenall, Ruth Sheen, Rebecca Humphries, Tom Basden.
The Salisbury Poisonings (2020)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.2
“The Salisbury Poisonings” is a drama based on real events. Set in 2018, it follows the aftermath of a nerve agent attack in Salisbury, England. The story focuses on the heroic efforts of local authorities, emergency services and the community as they respond to the unprecedented crisis, unravelling a web of intrigue and resilience.
Top cast: Anne-Marie Duff, Rafe Spall, MyAnna Buring, Judah Cousin, Annabel Scholey, Sophia Ally, Johnny Harris, Nigel Lindsay, Mark Addy.
Desperate Romantics (2009)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.4
“Desperate Romantics” is a TV drama series that delves into the lives of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, a group of revolutionary artists in 19th-century London. The show explores their passionate relationships, artistic pursuits and struggles against societal norms. With its blend of scandal, romance and art, it offers a captivating glimpse into the bohemian world of these talented individuals.
Top cast: Aidan Turner, Rafe Spall, Samuel Barnett, Sam Crane, Tom Hollander, Zoe Tapper, Amy Manson, Jennie Jacques.
