Famous Welsh Actors

Sir Anthony Hopkins is a highly acclaimed Welsh actor known for his remarkable performances on both screen and stage. With a career spanning over six decades, Hopkins has received numerous prestigious awards, including two Academy Awards, four BAFTA Awards, and two Primetime Emmy Awards. His talent and versatility have been showcased in a wide range of roles, from Shakespearean classics to iconic characters in films such as "The Silence of the Lambs" and "The Father." Hopkins' contributions to theater, film, and television have solidified his status as one of the most respected actors in the industry.

Michael Sheen is a highly accomplished Welsh actor known for his versatile performances in both theatre and film. He initially gained recognition for his work on the stage, earning critical acclaim for roles in various productions. Transitioning to screen acting, he has starred in a range of biographical films, portraying notable figures such as Tony Blair and David Frost. Sheen has continued to diversify his roles, appearing in fantasy, science-fiction, and comedy genres, showcasing his talent and range as an actor. Additionally, he has received prestigious award nominations for his compelling performances.

Luke Evans is a versatile Welsh actor and singer who has showcased his talent on both stage and screen. He initially gained recognition in London's West End productions before transitioning to successful roles in blockbuster films such as Clash of the Titans, Immortals, and The Three Musketeers. Evans has portrayed a range of characters, from the antagonist in Fast & Furious 6 to iconic roles like Bard the Bowman in The Hobbit and Gaston in Beauty and the Beast. His career also includes music with the release of his debut album and notable television appearances in series like The Pembrokeshire Murders and Nine Perfect Strangers.

Tom Ellis is a Welsh actor known for his roles in popular television series. He gained recognition for portraying Gary Preston in the BBC One sitcom Miranda (2009–2015). However, it was his portrayal of Lucifer Morningstar in the Fox series Lucifer (2016–2021) that truly solidified his place in the industry. Ellis reprised his role as Lucifer in the Arrowverse franchise's "Crisis on Infinite Earths" crossover event in 2019. His charismatic performances and versatility have earned him a dedicated fan following and critical acclaim in the entertainment world.

Taron Egerton is a Welsh actor known for his versatile performances on stage and screen. He rose to fame with his portrayal of Gary "Eggsy" Unwin in the Kingsman films, showcasing his action comedy chops. Egerton has also received critical acclaim for his roles in biographical films, including Testament of Youth, Eddie the Eagle, and Rocketman, where he won a Golden Globe Award. His recent work includes the miniseries Black Bird and the biopic Tetris, displaying his range and talent as an actor.

Richard Burton was a Welsh actor known for his powerful Shakespearean performances, particularly as Hamlet in 1964. He was praised as the natural successor to Laurence Olivier, although some critics felt he didn't reach his full potential due to heavy drinking. Despite never winning an Academy Award, Burton was widely regarded as one of the finest actors of his generation. He received nominations for acclaimed films such as My Cousin Rachel, Becket, and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Burton also excelled on stage, winning a Tony Award for his role in Camelot.

John Rhys-Davies is a highly acclaimed Welsh actor known for his versatile performances in film, television, and voice work. He gained prominence for his iconic roles as Sallah in the Indiana Jones franchise and Gimli in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. With a successful career spanning decades, he has received prestigious award nominations for his outstanding acting skills. Rhys-Davies has also showcased his talent in a variety of genres, including comedy, action, and animation, solidifying his status as a respected and versatile actor in the entertainment industry.

Jonathan Pryce is a highly acclaimed Welsh actor known for his versatile performances on stage and screen. Beginning his career in the 1970s, he has garnered awards for his work in theatre, including Tony and Olivier Awards. Pryce has showcased his talent in a range of roles, from Shakespearean characters to complex modern figures. His notable film credits include Brazil, Evita, and The Two Popes, while his television roles in Game of Thrones and The Crown have also received critical acclaim.

Ioan Gruffudd is a renowned Welsh actor known for his versatile roles in film and television across multiple countries. He gained recognition for portraying Harold Lowe in "Titanic" and Horatio Hornblower in the series of the same name. Gruffudd has showcased his talent in various genres, from historical dramas like "Amazing Grace" to superhero films like "Fantastic Four." With a diverse range of characters, including Tony Blair in "W." and Adam Lockwood in "Bad Boys: Ride or Die," Gruffudd has established himself as a talented and respected actor.

Terry Jones was a multitalented Welsh actor, comedian, director, and writer best known as a member of the iconic Monty Python comedy troupe. He played a significant role in shaping the innovative and surreal structure of Monty Python's Flying Circus. Jones co-directed successful films like Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Life of Brian, and The Meaning of Life. He also co-created the anthology series Ripping Yarns and contributed to projects like the film Labyrinth. Additionally, Jones was a respected medieval historian, author of children's books, and received a Lifetime Achievement award for his contributions to television and film.

Rhys Ifans is a versatile Welsh actor known for his roles in various films, including "Notting Hill," "Kevin & Perry Go Large," and "Enduring Love." He has portrayed memorable characters like Xenophilius Lovegood in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," Dr. Curt Connors / Lizard in "The Amazing Spider-Man" series, and Grigori Rasputin in "The King's Man." Additionally, Ifans has showcased his talent on television by playing characters such as Hector DeJean in "Berlin Station," Mycroft Holmes in "Elementary," and Ser Otto Hightower in "House of the Dragon." Moreover, he has also made significant contributions to the music industry as the former frontman of rock bands The Peth and Super Furry Animals.

Desmond Llewelyn was a Welsh actor renowned for his iconic portrayal of the character Q in the James Bond film series. He appeared as Q in 17 James Bond films over a span of 36 years, from 1963 to 1999. Llewelyn's performance as the witty and resourceful quartermaster endeared him to audiences worldwide. His contribution to the franchise was significant, and he became synonymous with the character of Q, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of spy films.

Ray Milland was a talented Welsh-American actor and film director known for his versatile performances in a wide range of roles. He gained recognition for his portrayal of an alcoholic writer in "The Lost Weekend," which earned him prestigious awards. Milland's career spanned both film and television, with notable appearances in classic movies such as "Beau Geste," "Dial M for Murder," and "Love Story." He worked with renowned directors like Billy Wilder and Alfred Hitchcock, showcasing his acting prowess and earning critical acclaim throughout his successful career.

Aneurin Barnard is a talented Welsh actor known for his diverse roles in both film and television. His career includes portraying characters such as Davey in "Hunky Dory," Claude in "The Truth About Emanuel," Bobby Willis in "Cilla," Tim in "Thirteen," King Richard III in "The White Queen," William in "Dead in a Week or Your Money Back," Gibson in "Dunkirk," and Boris Pavlikovsky in "The Goldfinch." Barnard's performances showcase his versatility and skill in bringing characters to life on screen.

Paul Whitehouse is a versatile Welsh actor, writer, presenter, and comedian known for his work on various TV shows and films. He gained fame as a main star of the BBC sketch comedy series The Fast Show and has collaborated with Harry Enfield on several projects. Whitehouse also appeared in the BBC series Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing and has showcased his acting skills in films such as Corpse Bride, Alice in Wonderland, and The Death of Stalin. He is highly regarded in the comedy world, being ranked in the top 50 comedy acts by comedians and insiders.

Tom Cullen is a versatile Welsh actor and director known for his work in both film and television. He gained recognition for his role as Anthony Foyle in the independent film "Weekend" and as Viscount Gillingham in the popular television series "Downton Abbey." Cullen further showcased his talent by portraying Sir Landry in the historical drama series "Knightfall" and Thomas Seymour in the historical drama "Becoming Elizabeth." With a diverse range of roles, he has established himself as a skilled performer in the entertainment industry.

Iwan Rheon is a versatile Welsh actor and musician known for his diverse roles in television and film. He gained recognition for portraying Simon Bellamy in the E4 series Misfits and achieved widespread acclaim for his chilling portrayal of Ramsay Bolton in the hit HBO series Game of Thrones. Rheon has showcased his talent in various productions, including the film The Dirt, where he portrayed Mötley Crüe guitarist Mick Mars. With appearances in series like Vicious, Riviera, and Inhumans, Rheon continues to captivate audiences with his compelling performances.

Roger Rees was a highly respected Welsh actor and director, renowned for his exceptional work on stage and screen. He achieved critical acclaim and prestigious awards for his lead role in The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby, including an Olivier Award and a Tony Award. Rees also received Obie Awards for his performances in The End of the Day and as co-director of Peter and the Starcatcher. His talent extended to American television, where he portrayed memorable characters in Cheers, The West Wing, and Mel Brooks' Robin Hood: Men in Tights.

Owain Sebastian Yeoman is a talented Welsh actor, renowned for his portrayal of CBI Agent Wayne Rigsby in the popular CBS series The Mentalist. With a diverse range of roles, Yeoman has showcased his acting prowess in various acclaimed projects such as The Nine, Kitchen Confidential, and Turn, where he played Benedict Arnold. He has also impressed audiences with his performances in Generation Kill and Emergence. Yeoman's professional journey is marked by versatility, skill, and a commitment to delivering captivating performances on screen.

Andy Whitfield was a Welsh actor known for his leading role in the Starz television series Spartacus: Blood and Sand. He gained recognition for his portrayal of the title character, Spartacus, in the popular show. Whitfield's performance was praised for its depth and intensity, drawing in audiences around the world. His work on Spartacus: Blood and Sand showcased his talent and versatility as an actor, solidifying his place in the entertainment industry and leaving a lasting impact on viewers and critics alike.

Bernard Fox, known for his diverse acting career, portrayed memorable characters in various TV shows and films. He gained recognition for his roles as Dr. Bombay in Bewitched, Colonel Crittendon in Hogan's Heroes, and Malcolm Merriweather in The Andy Griffith Show. Fox's talent extended to the big screen, appearing in movies like Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo and Titanic. With a career spanning decades, he left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry with his versatile performances and memorable characters.

Richard Colin Brake is a Welsh actor known for his diverse roles in film and television. With a wide range of performances in horror films such as Doom, Hannibal Rising, and Mandy, Brake has showcased his talent in the genre. He has also worked closely with director Rob Zombie on multiple projects. Brake gained further recognition for his portrayal of the Night King in Game of Thrones, Vlad in Ray Donovan, and Merle Callahan in Mayor of Kingstown. His lead role in Absentia highlights his versatility and skill as an actor.

Ian Stuart Whyte is a versatile professional with a diverse career encompassing acting, stunt work, and sports. He gained recognition for his portrayal of Predators in the Alien vs. Predator films and The Last Engineer in Prometheus. Additionally, he showcased his talents in the 2010 Clash of the Titans remake as Sheikh Suleiman. Whyte's acting prowess extended to the popular HBO series Game of Thrones, where he embodied various characters. His dedication and skill have solidified his reputation as a talented and dynamic performer in the entertainment industry.

Hugh Emrys Griffith was a highly respected Welsh actor known for his versatile performances on stage, film, and television. With over 100 productions to his name, Griffith's career spanned more than 40 years. His talent and dedication earned him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Ben-Hur. As a stage actor, he excelled in Shakespearean roles and was a member of the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company. Griffith's contributions to the entertainment industry were further recognized through nominations for Tony Awards, BAFTA Awards, and Golden Globes.

Matthew Rhys Evans is a talented Welsh actor known for his impactful performances on both television and film. He rose to fame portraying Kevin Walker in "Brothers & Sisters" and Philip Jennings in "The Americans," winning an Emmy for the latter. Rhys has showcased his versatility in roles such as Dylan Thomas in "The Edge of Love," Daniel Ellsberg in "The Post," and a journalist in "A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood." Additionally, he has lent his voice to animated series like "The Owl House," further demonstrating his range and skill.

Craig Roberts is a versatile Welsh actor and director known for his impactful lead roles in various film and television projects. He gained recognition for his portrayal of Oliver Tate in the acclaimed comedy-drama film "Submarine" and as David Meyers in the series "Red Oaks." Additionally, Roberts made a lasting impression as Rio Wellard in the popular television series "The Story of Tracy Beaker." His talent and range as an actor have solidified his reputation as a dynamic and skilled performer in the entertainment industry.

Shaheen Jafargholi is a talented Welsh actor and singer known for his appearances on various television shows. He gained recognition after finishing in seventh place on Britain's Got Talent in 2009. He has since taken on notable roles such as Shakil Kazemi in EastEnders and Marty Kirkby in Casualty. Shaheen also appeared in the second series of BBC Three's horror/comedy drama Wreck as Billy. With his versatile acting skills and impressive vocal abilities, Shaheen continues to make a mark in the entertainment industry.

Harry Secombe was a versatile Welsh entertainer known for his talents as an actor, comedian, singer, and television presenter. He gained fame as a member of the British radio comedy programme The Goon Show, where he portrayed various characters, most notably Neddie Seagoon. Secombe also showcased his tenor singing abilities in musicals and films, including a memorable role as Mr Bumble in Oliver! In his later career, he transitioned to presenting television shows featuring hymns and devotional songs, showcasing his diverse talents to audiences.

Gwilym Lee is a talented Welsh actor who has gained recognition for his diverse roles in various TV series and films. He showcased his acting abilities in popular productions such as Midsomer Murders, A Song for Jenny, Jamestown, Top End Wedding, and The Great. However, it was his portrayal of guitarist Brian May in the Queen biopic Bohemian Rhapsody that garnered him widespread acclaim and further established his reputation as a versatile and skilled actor in the entertainment industry.

Richard Davies, also known as Dennis Wilfred Davies, was a versatile Welsh actor known for his role as Mr. Price in the popular comedy series Please Sir!. He showcased his talent by portraying a variety of characters using different accents, including Welsh stereotypes. With a broad Welsh accent as his trademark, he demonstrated his skill in bringing characters to life on screen. Throughout his career, Richard Davies left a lasting impression with his versatile acting abilities and memorable performances in both comedic and dramatic roles.

Kenneth Griffith was a Welsh actor and documentary filmmaker known for his outspoken views. He gained fame for presenting documentaries that were considered some of the most brilliant and controversial in Britain. Griffith's work as a filmmaker sparked discussions and debates due to his fearless approach in tackling sensitive topics. His unique perspective and storytelling style set him apart in the industry, earning him a reputation as a bold and influential figure in British documentary filmmaking.

Christopher Timothy is a versatile Welsh actor and narrator with a successful career spanning decades. He has portrayed memorable characters such as James Herriot in the beloved series All Creatures Great and Small, Mac McGuire in the BBC soap opera Doctors, and Ted Murray in EastEnders. Known for his talent and versatility, Timothy has captivated audiences with his performances on both television and stage, establishing himself as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

William Simons was a Welsh actor known for portraying PC Alf Ventress in the long-running TV series Heartbeat from 1992 to 2010. His role as the lovable police constable endeared him to audiences for 18 years. Simons' portrayal of PC Ventress showcased his acting versatility and talent, making him a beloved character in the show. Through his dedication to the role, Simons left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and will be remembered for his contributions to the iconic British television series.

Richard Harrington is a talented Welsh actor known for his diverse roles across film, television, and stage. With a career spanning decades, he has garnered critical acclaim for his versatility and dedication to his craft. Harrington has portrayed a wide range of characters, showcasing his impressive acting range and ability to bring depth and authenticity to every role he undertakes. His performances have captivated audiences and solidified his reputation as a respected and sought-after actor in the industry.

Hywel Bennett was a Welsh actor known for his work in film and television. He had a diverse career, taking on lead roles in films like The Family Way and TV shows such as Shelley. Bennett also had memorable performances opposite Hayley Mills in several films. He showcased his versatility by portraying characters ranging from comedic roles like Private Brigg in The Virgin Soldiers to more serious roles like Ricki Tarr in Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy. In his later years, he excelled in villainous roles on both television and in film.

Jason Hughes is a talented Welsh actor known for his roles in both television and theatre. He gained recognition for portraying Sergeant Ben Jones in the popular ITV series Midsomer Murders and lawyer Warren Jones in the BBC drama This Life. In addition to his successful television career, Hughes has made significant contributions to the theatre world, including his role in the 1999 production of Our Country's Good. His versatile acting skills and dedication to his craft have established him as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Tony Adams is a Welsh actor of English and Norwegian descent, recognized for his work in British television soap operas. He has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry through his performances on screen. Adams is known for his roles in two popular British television soap operas, where he has showcased his talent and garnered a loyal following. His professional endeavors have solidified his reputation as a skilled and versatile actor, leaving a lasting impact on the world of television.

Mark Lewis Jones is a versatile Welsh actor known for his diverse roles in film, television, and video games. He has portrayed characters ranging from a First Order Captain in Star Wars: The Last Jedi to a police inspector in BBC's 55 Degrees North and a whaler in Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. His performances as soldier Tecton in Troy, Rob Morgan in Stella, and as the voice of Letho of Gulet in The Witcher 2 and 3 showcase his talent and range as an actor.

John Owen-Jones is a highly acclaimed Welsh musical theatre actor and singer renowned for his stellar performances as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables and The Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera. He has showcased his exceptional talent in various West End productions, most notably stepping in as an emergency replacement for Valjean in the 2021 production and portraying The Phantom in 2016. With six studio albums to his credit, John Owen-Jones continues to captivate audiences with his powerful vocals and stage presence.

Emlyn Williams was a renowned Welsh writer, dramatist, and actor known for his significant contributions to the arts. As a writer, he produced a wide range of works, including plays, novels, and screenplays, showcasing his versatility and creativity. Williams also made a name for himself as a talented actor, captivating audiences with his performances on stage and screen. Throughout his career, he garnered critical acclaim and established himself as a respected figure in the entertainment industry, leaving behind a lasting legacy of artistic excellence.

Lloyd Owen is a seasoned British actor known for his versatile roles on both the small and big screens. Trained at prestigious institutions such as the National Youth Theatre and RADA, he has portrayed memorable characters in various productions. His notable works include playing Indiana Jones's father in The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles, Paul Bowman-MacDonald in Monarch of the Glen, solicitor William Heelis in Miss Potter, commander Nathan Walker in Apollo 18, and Elendil in The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. Owen's talent and dedication have solidified his reputation as a respected actor in the industry.

Gareth Thomas was a Welsh actor known for his role as Roj Blake in the BBC science fiction series Blake's 7. He gained national recognition for his portrayal of the character from 1978 to 1981. Thomas's professional life was marked by his successful acting career, particularly in the realm of science fiction television. His performance as Roj Blake in Blake's 7 solidified his place in the genre's history and earned him a dedicated following among fans of the show.

Victor Spinetti was a versatile Welsh actor, author, poet, and raconteur with a prolific 50-year career in film, stage plays, and television. He starred in iconic 1960s Beatles films and worked closely with Joan Littlewood's Theatre Workshop, earning acclaim for his performances. Spinetti's career spanned various genres, from Shakespearean roles with the Royal Shakespeare Company to comedic and dramatic films. He won a Tony Award for his role in Oh, What a Lovely War! and continued to captivate audiences with his one-man shows until his passing in 2012.

Charles Kemble was a Welsh actor known for his distinguished career in the theater. He made significant contributions to the acting world and was a prominent figure in his era. Kemble's professional life was marked by his exceptional performances on stage, where he showcased his talent and versatility as an actor. He gained recognition for his skillful portrayal of various characters and became well-respected within the theatre community. Kemble's legacy lives on through his impactful contributions to the world of acting.

Stan Stennett, a distinguished Welsh personality, had a multifaceted professional life as a comedian, actor, and jazz musician. With a career spanning decades, he became a renowned figure in the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with his humor, versatility, and musical talent. Stennett's comedic timing and acting skills graced stages and screens, earning him accolades and a loyal following. His passion for jazz music further showcased his artistic range and dedication to his craft, solidifying his legacy as a versatile and respected performer.

Dean Smith is a versatile actor and comedian known for his roles in various TV shows such as Waterloo Road, Being Victor, Last Tango in Halifax, and Hollyoaks. He has showcased his talent in both drama and comedy genres, portraying diverse characters with skill and charisma. Dean is actively involved in charity work, participating in events like charity football matches and fundraising runs for organizations such as Cancer Research UK. His dedication to both his craft and philanthropic efforts highlights his passion for making a positive impact in the world.

Robin Davies was a Welsh television and film actor known for his versatile performances. He gained recognition for his roles in various productions, showcasing his talent and commitment to the craft. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a strong work ethic and dedication to his roles, earning the respect of his peers and audiences alike. His contributions to the entertainment industry left a lasting impact, with his performances being remembered fondly by those who had the pleasure of watching him on screen.