Rowan Atkinson – County Durham – Born in 1955
Rowan Atkinson, who attended Newcastle University, is a well-known comedian who has starred in movies and TV series as the title character, Mr. Bean. He has a flexible face and often delights his fans by adopting ridiculous expressions whenever the mood strikes him. During his time at Oxford University, where he earned degrees in Electrical Engineering, he discovered his talent for comedy, and since then, he hasn't looked back.
Although he no longer performs as "Mr. Bean," he has appeared in several commercials. Even though he rarely appears on screen, the legendary actor and entertainer is still very much alive and yet to retire.
Thelma Barlow - Yorkshire - Born in 1929
Thelma Barlow started in the workforce as a secretary, but she always had an interest in acting. In 1970, in "A Stranger on the Hills," she made her television debut after working for seven years and deciding to pursue her dream of acting.
She first appeared on "Coronation Street" in 1971 and stayed for the next 26 years, appearing in 1,787 episodes. Barlow has continued to act on the stage since leaving the show, appearing in films like "Blithe Spirit," "Enjoy," and "Arsenic and Old Lace." Her debut film appearance in 2005's "Mrs. Henderson Presents" earned her a Best Promising Newcomer nomination.
Jacqueline Bisset – Surrey – Born in 1944
The
The Hollywood career of Jacqueline Bisset spans over 50 fantastic years, and she's still going strong. The English actress is best known for her roles opposite Hollywood heavyweights such as Frank Sinatra in "The Detective" and Steve McQueen in "Bullitt" which led to her receiving a Golden Globe nomination.
Her first paying job was as a waitress, but it was her brief modeling career that opened doors for her in Hollywood. Thanks to her hard effort, she has received various prizes and recognitions. She is still quite active in the film industry, having made many more films and attending several festivals and award shows throughout the world.
Jeremy John Irons – Isle of Wight – Born in 1948
One of the iconic British actors of all time, Jeremy Irons' star power has only increased since he first graced our screens. Through hard work and consistency, he has amassed several honors and recognitions throughout his impressive career. Movies like "Dead Ringers," "The French Lieutenant's Woman," and "Reversal of Fortune" made him a household name.
Irons is well-known for his versatility, in addition to playing Batman's loyal butler, in films such as "Justice League" and "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice." Not only is Irons well-known for his acting, but also for the charitable work he has done. There are many organizations he backs, including the Hungry Project.
Jim Broadbent – Lincolnshire – Born in 1949
Jim
Broadbent, a renowned British character actor who has won accolades for his work on both sides of the Atlantic, is considered one of the industry's most prolific and versatile performers. He got his start as a theater artist, and his early work on stage led to bigger and better roles in movies.
Broadbent was a mainstay in major motion pictures like "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince," despite being best known for smaller-scale character dramas. Broadbent's status as one of the most successful performers of his time stems not only from the uniqueness of his character portrayals but also from the inherent humanity he brings to each role.
Judi Dench – York – Born in 1934
With a career spanning six decades and a wide range of film, television, and stage roles, Judi Dench has earned her reputation as a cultural icon and one of the most lauded actors of all time. Her acting career began in 1957 with the Old Vic Company, where she played Ophelia in "Hamlet", Juliet in "Romeo and Juliet", and Lady Macbeth in "Macbeth", among other roles from Shakespeare's canon.
She has received numerous accolades, including an Oscar, a Tony Award, two Golden Globes, and four British Academy Television Awards. To this day, she continues to excel and receive recognition for her work.
Julie Andrews – Surrey – Born in 1935
After seven decades in the business, Julie Andrews is a true icon in film, theater, and music. Her career began when she was just ten years old, being a child actress and a singer; thus, she has been working in the show business for a long time. She also received Tony Award nominations.
She has an impressively varied filmography, appearing in everything from Disney classics to rom-com. Her most famous roles are as the titular character Mary Poppins and Maria von Trapp in the classic musical "The Sound of Music." She has also written children's books and an autobiography in addition to her many roles on screen.
Julie Walters – Birmingham – Born in 1950
In many ways, Julie Walters embodies the concept of a living legend. She has had a remarkable career spanning comedy and drama and was awarded a BAFTA Fellowship for her efforts. She has been performing for decades, and her roles in films like "Harry Potter," "Raising Rita," and "Mama Mia!" are among the most well-known.
Walters is an accomplished actor who has worked in theater, television, and movies and has been bestowed many prestigious accolades. Many people admire her incredible abilities, charming personality, and self-satisfied sense of humor. These days, she's in semi-retirement and is enjoying life off the spotlight.
Kevin McNally – Bristol – Born in 1956
Most people know British actor Kevin McNally as Joshamee Gibbs in the iconic "Pirates of the Caribbean" movies. He has gained a lot of fans over the years and is now one of just three actors to have starred in all five films in the critically acclaimed trilogy.
McNally, originally from Bristol, began his stage career while still a high school student in Birmingham. For him, landing a regular role in the TV series "Poldark" was a turning point in his career. Despite a sluggish start, he has now risen to prominence in the acting world, with credits like "Macbeth Unhinged," "The Crown," "Dr. Who," and "Legend."
Leonard Whiting – London – Born in 1950
British actor Leonard Whiting played Romeo in an adaptation of "Romeo and Juliet." He earned the Golden Globe Award for the New Star of the Year. Because of the success of his first film role, Whiting appeared in other romantic comedies. He started his career as a young vocalist, winning the Gaiety Theater's Butlin Talent Contest before being cast as Romeo.
After leaving the film industry in the mid-1970s, Whiting shifted his concentration to the stage, where he established a successful career as an actor and a playwright. After 46 years since "Romeo and Juliet," he and Olivia Hussey worked together again in 2014's "Social Suicide."
Liam Neeson – Northern Ireland – Born in 1952
Liam Neeson is the epitome of acting on his own, with unquestionable charisma, outstanding talent, adaptability, and calm forcefulness. This illustrious Irish actor started at Dublin's renowned Abbey Theatre, where he caught the attention of "Excalibur" director John Boorman. Another great work is when he starred in the action film, "Taken."
Neeson's rise to fame began after his performance in "Schindler's List," for which he received a nomination for both Academy and British Academy Film Awards. He has starred in various films, including "Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace," and "Batman Begins," "Rob Roy." He still has a full schedule, and plenty of job offers to choose from.
Maggie Smith – Essex – Born in 1934
For more than six decades, Maggie Smith, a veteran of the British stage, television, and film industries, has etched her name in the halls of fame. Smith has appeared in over fifty movies over her prolific career. She has starred in numerous blockbuster films and series, including "Harry Potter," "Downton Abbey," "Nowhere to Go," and more.
She has won two Oscars, a Tony, and four Primetime Emmys, making her one of a select group of artists to accomplish this feat. She was such a significant figure in British culture that Queen Elizabeth II knighted her. She continues her career as an actress today, adding her considerable talents to the field.
Malcolm McDowell – Yorkshire – Born in 1943
During his younger years, Malcolm McDowell earned a reputation for being a rebellious and defiant individual. He is also a producer and tv presenter. These days, he's settled into life as a father of five, an ardent golfer, and a bad guy actor in Hollywood. Perhaps his most prominent role was as the twisted, shockingly gleeful maniac in "A Clockwork Orange."
His film career spans over 50 years, and he has appeared in many roles. With his adaptable acting style, he has appeared in various films and TV shows, such as "If...", "Caligula," "Star Trek Generations," "Entourage," "Our Friends in the North," "Bolt," and "Halloween II."
Michael Caine – London – Born in 1933
Michael Caine, a legend of British cinema, is a talented actor who made his distinctive cockney accent and dramatic portrayals of his characters. From modest beginnings, he rose to become a significant player in both the British and American entertainment industries. Caine's acting career spans over 60 years, and has appeared in roughly 115 films.
He is now the ninth highest-grossing actor of all time and is famous British film icon. Although he is best known for his acting career, Caine is also a respected author. Among his 11 books are the autobiographies "The Elephants to Hollywood" and "What's It All About?"
Miranda Richardson – Lancashire – Born in 1958
Oscar-winning actress Miranda Richardson has been working steadily in Hollywood since '70s. She began her career on stage, giving a string of acclaimed performances before transitioning to cinema and television. It was a good move, as she provided several memorable performances on television. She made her debut in the film playing Ruth Ellis in "Dance with a Stranger."
Richardson's acting range is extraordinary, as she has been seen in roles as varied as those of a kind matriarch, a fierce street mobster, and a queen fairy. She built a solid career with a string of highly praised films under her belt and a slew of industry accolades to her name.
Peter Dean – East London – Born in 1939
Devoted "EastEnders" viewers will recall the charming Pete Beale, who managed the fruit and vegetable stand in Albert Square. Peter Dean performed the part from the soap's 1985 debut until his final departure in 1991. In 1978, Dean became a household name with his role as criminal Jack Lynn on "Law & Order."
Before that, he had starred in shows like "Shoestring," "Minder," and "House of Horrors." Dean hasn't been seen much on TV since leaving "EastEnders," but he has made a few cameo appearances. According to reports, the ex-soap star is now a Jack-of-all-trades who works as a painter and decorator.
Petula Clark – Surrey – Born in 1932
Petula Clark, an English singer, composer, and actress, is so well-known in the United States that she is often called "the First Lady of the British Invasion." She has one of the longest chart runs of any artist and is among the top-selling British female musicians of all time.
Clark has amassed a staggering 68 million record sales over the globe. Among her most well-known works are "I Couldn't Live Without Your Love," "Downtown," and "My Love." Her first appearance was as a child performer just before her tenth birthday; to this day, she still makes appearances before her devoted audience.
Robert Carlyle – Glasgow – Born in 1961
Having starred in several critically acclaimed shows, Robert Carlyle has established himself as one of the most recognizable actors. He launched a career out of portraying gruesomely violent characters, but his breakthrough role in "Trainspotting" remains his most memorable and striking.
While Carlyle was waiting for his big break, he starred in several British films, including the police drama "Hamish Macbeth" Fans and critics alike adore him and his many roles because of his adaptability and dedication to fully inhabiting each character. His tremendous talent is still on display in the film industry, and he shows no signs of slowing down or leaving the business anytime soon.
David McCallum – Glasgow – Born in 1933
Actor and musician David McCallum shot to fame as the Russian super-spy named Illya Kuryakin in "The Man from U. N.C.L.E." Years later, his role as Dr. Donald Mallard on "N.C.I.S." brought him renewed fame around the world. He remains one of the few surviving cast members from the war drama "The Great Escape." One of his early roles is as an outlaw in "Robbery Under Arms."
You may also recognize him from his performances in "Batman v. Robin" and "Wonder Woman." McCallum is well-known for his acting roles but is also a talented musician. He has released four albums consecutively on Capitol Records.
Jack Dee – Kent – Born in 1961
Jack Dee's distinctive cynical humor, sarcasm, and wit earned him the nickname "The Midget with the Widget" after being featured in an ad campaign for "John Smith's Bitter." Among his many accomplishments, he acted in and co-wrote the hit British classic comedy "Lead Balloon." He is also a stand-up comedian and actor.
After years of practicing stand-up comedy, Dee got his big break through his show, "The Jack Dee Show," on Channel 4. The show's success established him as a leading comedic actor in the entertainment industry. He appeared in just one episode of the 2022 television show "Hypothetical," thus his career is far from over.
Michael McIntyre – London – Born in 1976
Michael
Exceptional McIntyre is a well-known comedian, writer, and TV host who rose to fame thanks to his programs, "Michael McIntyre's Big Show" and Michael McIntyre's "The Wheel." He would inevitably take up stand-up comedy after being born to a father who did it professionally. He is also known for his lively and restless stage presence.
McIntyre is well-known for his stand-up routines, but he has also appeared on "Live at the Apollo" episodes and served as a judge on "Britain's Got Talent" in 2011. He is still as busy as ever, having made guest appearances on over seventy television programs.
Anne Reid – Newcastle Upon Tyne – Born in 1935
While attending a Welsh boarding school, Anne Reid discovered her love of acting at a young age. Her breakout roles as Valerie Barlow on the '60s TV drama "Coronation Street" and Jean in the '70s sitcom "Dinnerladies" propelled her to fame. She starred in the show for ten years before taking a brief break.
She returned to the spotlight in the mid-1980s with roles in films like "Very Big Very Soon," "Pat and Margaret," and "Lost for Words," among others. Even after seven decades in the business, Reid remains one of the most famous actresses and has no plans to retire anytime soon.
David Graeme Garden – Aberdeenshire – Born in 1943
Legendary comedian Graeme Garden rose to prominence in the '70s as one-third of the comedy trio The Goodies, with Brooke-Taylor and Bill Oddie. For nearly five decades, Garden was a staple of the BBC Radio improv show "I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue."
"The Goodies," starring Tim Brooke-Taylor and Bill Oddie, on which he appeared, brought him to widespread attention. Aside from his work with the BBC, he has also voiced several characters for Big Finish Productions, including the Monk in "The Book of Kells," "To the Death," and "The Secret History." Garden hasn't stopped performing or making television appearances.
Billy Connolly – Glasgow - Born in 1942
There is no doubt that Billy Connolly is among the all-time greats of comedy. The Scotsmen of his homeland refer to him as "The Big Yin" because of how popular he is. Before gaining fame as a folk singer, he worked as a welder in the Glasgow shipyards.
In due time, he shifted his focus to comedy, which eventually became more than a hobby and became his primary occupation. He received countless honors and accolades for his work, including an honorary Doctor of Letters, when he graduated from the University of Glasgow. Even though his performances are rare, he still enjoys legendary status in the entertainment industry.
Sheila Hancock – Isle of Wight – Born in 1933
Longtime phenomenal actress Sheila Hancock appeared in everything from "William Shakespeare" to a "Carry On" movie. After graduating from the prestigious U.K.-based Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, she pursued a career in repertory theatre. She first gained widespread attention in the early '60s when she portrayed Carol on the BBC comedy series "The Rag Trade."
In subsequent years, she guest-starred on shows like "Doctor Who" and "New Tricks." Hancock has also found success in new guises, including that of best-selling novelist and TV talent show judge. She is alive and well and may still appear in many current TV shows.
Charles Dance – Redditch – Born in 1946
It's safe to say that Charles Dance's career has been an enormous success. His contributions to the field of drama are undeniable, and he is still actively involved in the film industry. Even though he had planned on working in graphic design when he was younger, he changed his mind and is now pursuing a career in acting instead.
Many of his roles, from the brutal litigator Tulkinghorn in "Bleak House" to the aristocratic figure D. W. Griffith in "Good Morning, Babylon" to the coldly calculating and controlling lord of Casterly Rock in critically acclaimed HBO's "Game of Thrones," demonstrates his versatility and talent.
Peter Kay – Lancashire – Born in 1973
Peter has been one of the most popular comedians of the past decade. When he first appeared on screen, it was in the Granada short film "Two Minutes," which ran for 25 minutes. Fans and his peers in the comedy industry both sing his praises; he is widely considered one of Britain's best comedians and holds the distinction of the most financially successful comedy tour in history.
Kay's autobiography, "The Sound of Laughter," was published in October 2006, and it's one of the best-selling autobiographies in British history. Kay, a devoted family guy, has curtailed his touring schedule in recent years so that he can spend more time at home.
Sean Bean – Sheffield – Born in 1959
Sean Bean has starred in one of the most successful films and television series in recent memory. Not only has he starred in "Lord of the Rings" and "Game of Thrones," but he has also made cameos in numerous other blockbuster films like Patriot Games, GoldenEye, and The Martian, among many others. He is well-known not only as a television and movie star but also as a successful stage actor.
Despite having won many honors and appearing in over 50 productions, the star of "Game of Thrones" has no plans to retire from the acting world any time soon. Indeed, he can continue portraying excellent roles.
Glenda Jackson – Cheshire – Born in 1936
Glenda Jackson has had an exciting and rewarding life, and she shows no signs of going out of the limelight. One of only a few female performers to have achieved the "Triple Crown of Acting," Jackson is a superstar, having won two Oscars, two Primetime Emmy Awards, and a Tony Award.
Films like "Women in Love," "A Touch of Class," "Sunday Bloody Sunday," and "Hedda" are some of her most known works. TV audiences recognized her from roles in shows like "Sakharov" and "The Patricia Neal Story." She left the industry in 1992 to focus on politics but returned to acting in 2015.
Patrick Stewart – Mirfield – Born in 1940
Patrick Stewart is internationally renowned as one of the greatest actors. He has created a few of the most iconic turning points in the history of film, television, and the stage. He has been performing for over fifty years and has been part of some of the most significant franchises in cinema history.
Starting on stage, he starred in films and TV shows as diverse as "Excalibur," "Star Trek: The Next Generation," "X-Men," and "American Dad." His career shows no signs of slowing down, even though he's well into his 80s. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Eileen Derbyshire –Urmston – Born in 1931
Over more than half a century, Eileen Derbyshire has played the role of Emily Bishop on "Coronation Street," making her the longest-tenured actor in the program's entire run. Her first appearance in the show was in 1960. She remained a regular cast member for 56 years until her departure in 2016.
Derbyshire, now in her nineties, has largely retired from acting, making only sporadic red-carpet appearances when required. Of course, fans are wondering where their favorite soap star has been, but she seems intent on avoiding the spotlight for the time being. She became a Member of the Order of the British Empire.
Jessica Benton – London – Born in 1948
After starting in minor roles, English actress Jessica Benton earned a name for herself in the '70s with films like "The Juggler of Notre Dame" and "Z-Cars." She became well-known as Elizabeth Onedin in the BBC show "The Onedin Line." Benton was a mainstay of the show, appearing on our screens regularly for over a decade and winning many fans.
Her acting career ended with the cancellation of the TV series in 1980, and she's not appeared in any other media since then. Before her departure, however, she starred as Queen Anne in a drama-documentary filmed in Austria. She is also a fully trained classical ballet and modern jazz dancer.
Joely Richardson – Marylebone – Born in 1965
Even though Joely Richardson comes from a family with a long and illustrious history of achievement in the entertainment industry, she has never had much interest in following in her family's footsteps. However, she eventually picked up her family's acting chops and quickly became a well-known figure in the industry.
The film "Drowning By Numbers," in which she made her first appearance, catapulted her to fame. She has had a career spanning three decades as an actress. During that time, she has appeared in several critically acclaimed movies, including "Event Horizon," "101 Dalmatians," "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo," "The Last Mimzy," "Endless Love," and "Red Sparrow."
Sarah Lancashire – Oldham – Born in 1964
As the adorable but naive bartender Raquel on "Coronation Street," Sarah Lancashire stole viewers' hearts and became one of the most in-demand actresses in the UK. Her breakthrough came in 1990 when she starred as Linda in the West End production of "Blood Brothers." She is also known for her parts in "Happy Valley," "Oliver Twist," "Last Tango in Halifax," and "Julia."
Throughout her four-decade-long acting career, Lancashire has won numerous accolades and been nominated for several prestigious honors, including two British Academy Television Awards. She's still quite active in the acting industry, so there are plenty of opportunities to win more awards.
Pam St Clement – Harrow on the Hill – Born in 1942
Pam St. Clement, who portrayed Pat Butcher on "EastEnders" from 1986 to 2012, is a legend in the industry. She also starred in several episodes of Casualty and other programs like "The Chinese Detective," "Enemy at the Door," and many more.
She was featured in the road trip documentary "Gone to Pot: American Road Trip," in which she and four other celebrities traveled across the United States to learn about the therapeutic uses of psychoactive substances and the potential effects of legalization on the United Kingdom. She has since made a few more appearances in little films, but it looked like that was her last significant role on screen.
Alfred Molina –Paddington – Born in 1953
Since his four-decade-long acting career began, Alfred Molina has been applauded for his impeccable skills in bringing complex characters to life on screen. He has consistently impressed audiences with his performances on screen, in theater, and on television.
Molina made his acting debut in the blockbuster "Raiders of the Lost Ark" in 1981 and has since established himself as a significant player in the industry. He has received numerous nominations and awards for his legendary characters, including the Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild Awards, the BAFTA, the Primetime Emmy, and four Tony Awards. Given his talent, there's little doubt he'll continue to achieve great things.
Anthony Hopkins – Glamorgan – Born in 1937
Anthony Hopkins has been hailed as one of the best British actors of all time for his many memorable performances on screen. He has starred in numerous critically acclaimed films, including "The Silence of the Lambs," "Legends of the Fall," and "Remains of the Day," for which he won an Academy Award.
He began his career in theater before moving toward movies. In 2003, he was esteemed with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 2008, he was elected a fellow member of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts. He has been and continues to be one of Hollywood's finest actors.
Barbara Knox – Oldham – Born in 1933
As Rita Tanner, Barbara Knox captivated viewers on ITV's "Coronation Street" with her performance. Knox is one of the most popular and long-running soap opera actresses, not just because she participated in the show mentioned above. Her parts in "Goodbye, Mr. Chips," "A Family at War," and "Emergency - Ward 10" are among her most recognizable.
She has been in the business since 1962, when she made her debut at the Oldham Coliseum Theatre, and is still going strong, albeit with less screen time. Among her many accomplishments is the 2010 award of the MBE, the highest civilian honor in the United Kingdom.
Charles Shaughnessy – London – Born in 1955
Among Charles Shaughnessy's most recognizable roles is that of Maxwell Sheffield, the stuffy but incredibly delightful theater producer and father, on "The Nanny." Throughout the show's six seasons, Shaughnessy was a regular fixture. Even while doing so, he kept working on other movies and TV shows. In 2011, he won Best Lead Actor in a Musical.
Shaughnessy is just as busy on stage, where he has been in several Tony Award-winning shows like "My Fair Lady" and "Harvey." He first gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Shane Donovan on the NBC daytime period drama "Days of Our Lives," He remains a mainstay in Hollywood.
Christina Pickles – West Riding of Yorkshire – Born in 1935
Christina Pickles, a veteran English actress, became famous because of her appearances in the NBC medical drama "St. Elsewhere," for which she received five Emmy nominations. Her long experience in the entertainment sector spans over 50 years and includes roles in several plays, documentaries, and feature films. She was awarded the Outstanding Actress in a Short Form Comedy or Drama Series.
In the early '60s, she began performing in theatre productions, and in 1964, she made her Broadway debut in "A Severed Head." She has been wowing audiences her abilities since she was young, and Christina shows no signs of slowing down, even as she enters her golden years.
Derek Jacobi – Essex – Born in 1938
Derek Jacobi always understood what he wanted out of life, even at an early age. His interest in acting began at the tender age of four, and two years later, in kindergarten, he had the opportunity to take on his first role as the Prince in "The Prince and the Swineherd."
He's still going strong in the acting world even though he's well into his 80s, and he's become an iconic figure in British entertainment. Jacobi has worked in various mediums, including as an actor, film director, and voice actor. His credits include "Doctor Who," "Much Ado About Nothing," and the children's program "In the Night Garden."
Hugh Grant – London – Born in 1960
Hugh Grant is a modern-day British cultural icon revered for his groundbreaking contributions to the romantic comedy genre. From the sophisticated Merchant-Ivory productions to the massively successful rom-com like "Notting Hill," "Four Weddings and a Funeral," and "Bridget Jones's Diary," Grant has produced a vast body of work and dominated the box office in the genre from the mid-90s to the early '00s.
There is no denying that these movies feature some of the most memorable and touching love stories in cinematic history. He has also given compelling turns in miniseries like "The Undoing." Even though he increasingly opts for less intense roles, he remains a favorite.
Sir Ian McKellen – Lancashire – Born in 1939
It's safe to say that Sir Ian McKellen is among the most active actors working today. Throughout his acting career, he has portrayed everything from Shakespearean heroes to modern pop culture figures like Gandalf and Magneto, demonstrating an astonishing diversity. In addition to his success in the entertainment industry, he is well-known for his philanthropy and LGBTQ rights activities outside the spotlight.
From the launch of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, which propelled him to international popularity, he won virtually every major theater award. He is named the Commander of the Order of the British Empire and a Companion of Honor.