Stephen Graham

Last updated on the 27 April 2025 by Evandrus

Mini Biography

Born: 3 August 1973, Kirkby, Lancashire, England. 

Stephen Graham’s educational journey began at Overdale Primary School in Kirkby. It was during this time that he received encouragement from local actor Andrew Schofield, who witnessed his talent while performing as Jim Hawkins in a school production of Treasure Island. Graham then went on to attend Ruffwood Comprehensive for further education. At the age of 14, he was introduced to Liverpool’s Everyman Theatre, which played a pivotal role in shaping his passion for acting. Later, Graham pursued formal training at the Rose Bruford College of Theatre & Performance, solidifying his foundation in the performing arts.

Stephen Graham’s breakthrough came when he landed a role in the critically acclaimed British crime drama “Snatch” (2000), directed by Guy Ritchie. His portrayal of the menacing and volatile gangster Tommy earned him widespread recognition and marked the beginning of a prosperous acting journey.

Since then, Graham has consistently delivered exceptional performances across various genres and mediums. He has collaborated with esteemed directors such as Martin Scorsese in “Gangs of New York” (2002) and “The Irishman” (2019), and with Christopher Nolan in “Inception” (2010).

On the small screen, Graham has also made a significant impact. His portrayal of Al Capone in the critically acclaimed series “Boardwalk Empire” (2010-2014) garnered immense praise and earned him a nomination for a Screen Actors Guild Award.

Additionally, roles in British television productions such as Taboo (2017), White House Farm (2020) , A Christmas Carol (2020) and Help (2021), further solidified his reputation as a versatile and talented actor.

Off-screen, Graham is a devoted family man. He is married to actress Hannah Walters and the couple have three children together.

Suggested viewing

Adolescence (2025)

Bftv 9.5 / IMDb 8.4

Set in the aftermath of a shocking crime, this gripping drama follows the arrest of a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering a classmate. Through four intense episodes, it explores the psychological, familial and societal impacts of the crime, delving into themes of online radicalisation, bullying and the pressures faced by modern youth. Each episode unfolds in real-time, capturing the raw emotions and unravelling truths surrounding the case.

Top cast: Stephen Graham, Ashley Walters, Erin Doherty, Owen Cooper, Faye Marsay, Christine Tremarco, Mark Stanley, Jo Hartley.

Bodies (2023)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.5

Based on the graphic novel by Si Spencer, the plot revolves around four police detectives from different time periods who discover a deceased individual in East London’s Whitechapel neighbourhood. However, what distinguishes this series from other crime dramas is that it is the identical corpse that resurfaces throughout a span of 150 years.

Top cast: Stephen Graham, Kyle Soller, Jacob Fortune-Lloyd, Shira Haas, Amaka Okafor, Greta Scacchi, Tom Mothersdale, Synnøve Karlsen, George Parker.

Help (2021)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.6

“Help” is a drama miniseries set in a fictional care home in Liverpool, England. The story revolves around the lives of a young caregiver, Sarah and a resident, Tony, as they form an unlikely bond. The series explores the challenges and realities of the care system while shedding light on the personal struggles and triumphs of those involved.

Top cast: Jodie Comer, Stephen Graham, Ian Hart, Sue Johnston, Lesley Sharp, David Hayman, Angela Griffin, Charles Death, Alicya Eyo.

White House Farm (2020)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.4

“White House Farm” is a crime drama miniseries based on true events. It looks into the infamous 1985 murders at White House Farm in Essex, England. The series follows the investigation and trial surrounding the tragic deaths of five family members, exploring the complex web of deception and uncovering the shocking truth.

Top cast: Stephen Graham, Freddie Fox, Cressida Bonas, Alfie Allen, Mark Addy, Mark Stanley, Gemma Whelan, Alexa Davies, Grace Calder.

Time (2021)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 8.2

Imprisoned and burdened by guilt, Mark Cobden faces the challenges of adapting to prison life while grappling with remorse. His path converges with Eric McNally, a devoted prison officer determined to protect the inmates. However, when a dangerous prisoner exploits Eric’s weaknesses, he faces a difficult choice between his principles and the safety of his loved ones.

Top cast: Sean Bean, Stephen Graham, Hannah Walters, James Nelson-Joyce, Siobhan Finneran, Sue Johnston, Nadine Marshall, David Calder.

Boiling Point (2021)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.5

During a bustling evening at a popular London restaurant, head chef Andy Jones faces numerous challenges that jeopardise his hard-earned success. As a health and safety inspector unexpectedly arrives, tensions rise among the staff amidst a fully booked venue. Jones strives to mediate conflicts between management and the crew, all while accommodating the extravagant requests of demanding customers.

Top cast: Stephen Graham, Vinette Robinson, Alice May Feetham, Jason Flemyng, Hannah Walters, Malachi Kirby, Izuka Hoyle, Taz Skylar, Lauryn Ajufo.

Taboo (2017)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.8

“Taboo” is a historical drama series set in 19th-century England. James Keziah Delaney returns to London after years in Africa to inherit his father’s shipping empire. He becomes entangled in a web of intrigue, conspiracies and dark secrets, as he traverses the treacherous world of trade, politics and the supernatural.

Top cast: Tom Hardy, David Hayman, Jonathan Pryce, Oona Chaplin, Richard Dixon, Leo Bill, Edward Hogg, Jessie Buckley, Scroobius Pip, Stephen Graham.

A Christmas Carol (2020)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.2

“A Christmas Carol” is a retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. The story follows the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge as he is visited by three spirits on Christmas Eve, who show him the consequences of his selfishness and inspire him to change his ways. It explores themes of redemption, compassion and the true meaning of Christmas.

Top cast: Guy Pearce, Andy Serkis, Stephen Graham, Joe Alwyn, Vinette Robinson, Jason Flemyng, Charlotte Riley, Johnny Harris, Kayvan Novak.

This Is England (2006)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.7

“This Is England” is a drama film set in 1983 England. It follows the story of a young boy named Shaun who finds solace and a sense of belonging in a group of skinheads. However, as the group becomes infiltrated by racist ideologies, Shaun is forced to confront the dark and destructive consequences of their actions.

Top cast: Thomas Turgoose, Stephen Graham, Jo Hartley, Andrew Shim, Vicky McClure, Joseph Gilgun, Perry Benson, Andrew Ellis, Jack O’Connell.

Snatch (2000)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.2

“Snatch” is a crime-comedy film that revolves around a chaotic chain of events triggered by the theft of a valuable diamond. The story follows a diverse group of characters, including gangsters, boxing promoters, and amateur robbers, as they all desperately try to get their hands on the priceless gem, leading to hilarious and unpredictable outcomes.

Top cast: Jason Statham, Brad Pitt, Stephen Graham, Dennis Farina, Alan Ford, Benicio del Toro, Vinnie Jones, Robbie Gee, Lennie James, Jason Fleming, Ewen Bremner.

Full filmography (@Wikipedia)