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Last updated on the 7 June 2024 by Evandrus
Mini Biography
Born: 4th March 1987, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, England.Â
Tamzin Merchant is an accomplished English actress and author. Her early life was marked by a period spent in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, which added a unique international dimension to her upbringing. She received her education at Windlesham House School and Brighton College, prestigious institutions that laid the foundation for her future endeavors.
Despite her evident talent in acting, Merchant did not immediately pursue it as a career. Instead, she twice deferred university places to concentrate on her acting career, demonstrating a commitment to her craft from a young age. Eventually, she attended Homerton College, Cambridge, where she studied English and Drama with Education, a combination that undoubtedly contributed to her depth as a performer.
Tamzin Merchant’s career began with notable roles such as Georgiana Darcy in the film “Pride & Prejudice” (2005), a performance that garnered her significant attention. She further solidified her reputation with her portrayal of Catherine Howard in the Showtime series “The Tudors” (2009–2010) and Anne Hale in the WGN America series “Salem” (2014–2017).
Tamzin Merchant was originally cast as Daenerys Targaryen in the unaired pilot of the HBO series “Game of Thrones,” a role that was later recast. She has also appeared in various other projects, including the BBC adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” and the Amazon Prime series “Carnival Row,” where she played a series regular role from 2019.
In addition to her acting career, Tamzin Merchant has explored her literary talents. She authored the children’s book “The Hatmakers” in 2021, adding ‘author’ to her list of accomplishments.Â
While details of her personal life are kept private, it is known that she was once in a relationship with actor Freddie Fox, whom she met on the set of “The Mystery of Edwin Drood.” The couple’s relationship lasted for two years before ending in 2013.
Suggested viewing
The Tudors (2007)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.1
“The Tudors” is a historical drama series depicting the reign of King Henry VIII in 16th-century England. It explores the king’s tumultuous personal life, political intrigues, and religious conflicts. The show delves into his marriages, affairs, and quest for a male heir while showcasing the lavish court life and significant events that shaped this iconic period in history.
Top cast: Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Henry Cavill, Natalie Dormer, Maria Doyle Kennedy, James Frain, Annabelle Wallis, Tamzin Merchant (S3).
Jane Eyre (2011)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.3
Based on the classic novel by Charlotte Bronte. The story follows the titular character’s journey from an orphaned and mistreated child to a strong, independent woman. Jane navigates love, betrayal, and personal growth as she faces societal constraints in her quest for happiness and finding her place in the world.
Top cast: Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender, Jamie Bell, Judi Dench, Sally Hawkins, Tamzin Merchant, Imogen Poots, Holliday Grainger.
Murder on the Home Front (2013)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.6
Set in World War II London, “Murder on the Home Front” follows pathologist Molly Cooper as she helps solve crimes amid the chaos of war. With her determination and expertise, she unravels mysteries while navigating personal challenges, showcasing resilience and strength in a time when danger lurks both inside and outside the home.
Top cast: Patrick Kennedy, Tamzin Merchant, James Fleet, Emerald Fennell, David Sturzaker, Richard Bremmer, Hugh Bonneville, John Bowe.
Carnival Row (2019)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.7
“Carnival Row” is a fantasy television series set in a Victorian-inspired world where mythical creatures coexist with humans. The story follows Rycroft Philostrate, an investigator, and Vignette Stonemoss, a faerie refugee, as they face political tensions and solve murders in the city of Burg. Their forbidden love intertwines with dark secrets and societal conflicts that threaten to tear their world apart.
Top cast: Orlando Bloom, Cara Delevingne, Simon McBurney, Tamzin Merchant, David Gyasi, Karla Crome, Arty Froushan, Indira Varma.
The Mystery of Edwin Drood (2012)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 6.8
“The Mystery of Edwin Drood,” adapted into a television series, features Tamzin Merchant as Rosa Bud. Set in Cloisterham, the story revolves around the disappearance of Edwin Drood and the ensuing investigation. Amidst love triangles and hidden secrets, Rosa becomes entangled in a web of intrigue, captivating viewers with her enigmatic character’s journey.
Top cast: Matthew Rhys, Tamzin Merchant, Freddie Fox, Rory Kinnear, Alun Armstrong, Julia McKenzie, Ron Cook, Ellie Haddington.
