Timothy Spall

Last updated on the 26 May 2025 by Maeve

Mini Biography

Born: February 27, 1957, Battersea, London.

Timothy Spall was raised in a working class family in London. His father was a postal worker and his mother worked in a hair salon. Growing up, Spall displayed a natural flair for creativity and performance, participating in school plays and local theatre productions. His passion for acting led him to enrol at the National Youth Theatre in his teenage years.

Spall’s breakthrough in the entertainment industry came in the 1980s when he collaborated with director Mike Leigh on several projects. Their fruitful partnership resulted in critically acclaimed films such as “Life Is Sweet” (1990) and “Secrets & Lies” (1996).

In 2004, Spall portrayed the iconic British painter J.M.W. Turner in the film “Mr. Turner.” His transformative portrayal of the eccentric artist garnered immense praise from critics and audiences alike. His dedication to the role earned him numerous awards, including the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival.

One of his most memorable roles was that of Peter Pettigrew, or Wormtail, in the “Harry Potter” film series.

Beyond the glitz and glamour of his career, Timothy Spall leads a private and content personal life. He has been married to his wife, Shane Spall, since 1981 and they have three children together. He is the father of fellow actor Rafe Spall. Despite his success, Spall remains down-to-earth and values his privacy, rarely seeking the spotlight outside of his professional endeavours.

Outside of acting, Spall is an avid art enthusiast and collector. His love for art has led him to explore various forms of creativity and he is an accomplished painter. This passion for the arts further deepens his connection to his craft and adds another layer of richness to his performances.

WINNER | Television: Leading actor for The Sixth Commandment (2024)

Suggested viewing

Death Valley (2025)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 6.6

Each week in Wales, an unlikely duo forms: a retired actor and a sharp detective sergeant. Together, they combine their unique skills to unravel a series of perplexing murders.

Top cast: Timothy Spall, Gwyneth Keyworth, Steffan Rhodri, Alexandria Riley, Rithvik Andugula, Jim Howick, Remy Beasley, Melanie Walters.

More quirky investigators

The Street (2006)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.2

Amidst the ordinary lives of everyday people residing on a seemingly unremarkable street, secrets, struggles, and resilience intertwine, revealing the complexities of human nature. From infidelity and abuse to grief and redemption, each resident confronts their own challenges, finding solace and support in the unexpected bonds formed within their close-knit community.

Top cast: Timothy Spall, Ger Ryan, Christine Bottomley, Lee Ingleby, Anna Friel, Neil Dudgeon, David Schofield, Jody Latham, Bob Hoskins.

The Last Bus (2021)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.6

“The Last Bus” is a heartwarming drama that centres around a recently widowed pensioner named Tom. When his free bus pass is taken away, Tom embarks on a cross-country journey to fulfil his late wife’s final wish. Along the way, he forms unexpected friendships and finds solace in the beauty of the world around him.

Top cast: Timothy Spall, Phyllis Logan, Grace Calder, Alex Ferns, Celyn Jones, Natalie Mitson, Annette Badland, Chris Reilly.

Auf Wiedersehen Pet (1983)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.5

“Auf Wiedersehen, Pet” is a comedy-drama series that follows a group of British construction workers who embark on an adventure by working abroad in Germany. The show explores their trials, triumphs and misadventures as they face cultural differences, forge friendships and seek to make a better life for themselves.

Top cast: Tim Healy, Kevin Whately, Jimmy Nail, Gary Holton, Pat Roach, Timothy Spall, Christopher Fairbank, Noel Clarke.

Mr. Turner (2014)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.8

“Mr. Turner” is a biographical drama that follows the life of celebrated British painter J.M.W. Turner. Set in the 19th century, the film explores Turner’s artistic genius, his unconventional personal life and his stormy relationships. It showcases his journey as he travels through the changing art world and leaves his mark on history.

Top cast: Timothy Spall, Paul Jesson, Dorothy Atkinson, Marion Bailey, Karl Johnson, Ruth Sheen, Sandy Foster, Amy Dawson.

Mrs. Lowry and Son (2019)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.7

“Mrs. Lowry and Son” is a poignant biographical drama that explores the complex relationship between renowned British artist L.S. Lowry and his overbearing mother, Elizabeth. Set in 1930s England, the film explores their strained bond as Lowry seeks artistic recognition while caring for his demanding and disapproving mother.

Top cast: Timothy Spall, Vanessa Redgrave, Stephen Lord, Wendy Morgan, Michael Keogh, David Schaal, Rose Noble, Martin Savage.

More artist biopics

Life Is Sweet (1990)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.4

In a sweltering London summer, a working class family grapples with life’s bittersweet realities. The optimistic mum supports her chef husband’s impulsive purchase of a food van, while their contrasting twin daughters contend with love, career dreams and personal struggles. Laughter and tension simmer as they juggle everyday challenges, chasing happiness amidst the chaos of their ordinary lives.

Top cast: Alison Steadman, Jim Broadbent, Timothy Spall, Claire Skinner, Jane Horrocks, David Thewlis, Moya Brady, Stephen Read, David Neilson.

The Sixth Commandment (2023)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.7

The drama explores the deaths of two elderly neighbours in a small village, investigated after suspicion falls on a younger man who befriended them both. As the narrative unfolds, it examines the complexities of their relationships, raising questions about manipulation and the boundaries of trust, all set against the backdrop of a real-life criminal case.

Top cast: Timothy Spall, Anne Reid, Éanna Hardwicke, Annabel Scholey, Anna Crilly, Jonathan Aris, Peter Sullivan, Ben Bailey Smith, Sheila Hancock.

Full filmography (@Wikipedia)