The UK has produced some of the best and most successful actors the world has ever seen. From classical thespians to action stars and comedy geniuses, this post profiles 14 of the greatest ever from across the pond.
1. Alan Rickman
Best known for his spellbinding performances as Snape in the Harry Potter films, the late Alan Rickman was one of the most well-respected actors of the late 20th and early 21st Century. Away from the Wizarding World, his turns in Love Actually and as villain Hans Gruber in Die Hard showed his incredible range.
2. Anthony Hopkins
First finding fame for his performance as Dr. Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs, Sir Anthony Hopkins has been at the top of his game for decades. Winning numerous awards (including Oscars) for his work, which ranges from Shakespeare to historical biopics and beyond, Hopkins is considered one of the finest actors of all time.
3. Michael Caine
Perhaps most recognizable as Batman’s English butler in the Dark Knight trilogy, Michael Caine has appeared in over 130 films. His trademark charisma and Cockney accent have made him a household name, and he has won two Academy Awards for his work. With enough range to pull off both Zulu and The Italian Job, Caine’s body of work speaks for itself.
4. Christian Bale
Bale is one of the most talented and committed character actors of his generation. His transformative performances are remarkable: It’s hard to believe his Batman is the same person appearing in The Machinist. Few actors can list comic book movies, thrillers like American Psycho, and award-winning dramas like The Fighter on their CV, but Bale tackles every kind of role with aplomb.
5. Tom Hardy
For a masterclass in acting, look no further than Tom Hardy’s two(!) performances in Legend. Playing both Kray twins at the same time, Hardy delivers a pair of breathtaking performances. Next to further iconic performances in Inception, Mad Max, and The Dark Knight Rises, Hardy’s list of brilliant roles continues to grow.
6. Charlie Chaplin
Charlie Chaplin was the greatest star of the silent film era. His character, “The Tramp,” is instantly familiar to everyone, with his signature bowler hat and cane. Through the early 20th Century, Chaplin established himself as one of the most beloved figures in cinematic history.
7. Sean Bean
Slightly infamous for dying in every film he appears in, Sean Bean’s versatility and intensity of performance have made him a household name. With a career that spans four decades and several iconic roles in hit projects such as Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones, Bean’s distinctive voice and natural talent mark him as one of the best actors of his generation.
8. Tim Curry
Tim Curry elevates every movie he appears in. From Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show to Pennywise in It, few actors commit as wholly to their roles as Curry. Delivering the same care and attention to Muppets: Treasure Island as he did to Clue, he has become a beloved figure in popular culture for good reason.
9. Colin Firth
Thanks to his role as Mr. Darcy in the television adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, Colin Firth is often the first classic British actor that comes to mind. Winning an Oscar for The King’s Speech and capturing hearts in Love Actually, Firth’s charisma and warmth have made him one of the most desirable British actors around today.
10. Cary Grant
Known for classic movies like North by Northwest and Notorious, Cary Grant was one of the greatest actors of the Golden Age of cinema. The archetypal leading man, Grant was charming, sophisticated, and suave. He was offered the role of James Bond before Sean Connery but turned it down. Despite this, Grant remains one of the most enduring screen stars of all time.
11. Laurence Olivier
With a glittering career spanning six decades, Laurence Olivier was one of the most prolific actors of the 20th Century. Beloved in the theatre for his Shakespearean performances as Hamlet and Richard III, The British industry named their Olivier Awards for him. He was the first actor to direct himself in an Oscar-winning performance in his film adaptation of Hamlet.
12. Hugh Grant
The star of Notting Hill and Four Weddings and a Funeral, Hugh Grant is the king of the romantic comedy. His charm, charisma, and wit have made him a household name. He has also found success with dramatic roles in films such as Florence Foster Jenkins or The Gentleman, showcasing his versatility.
13. Ian McKellen
Sir Ian McKellen has been a stalwart of stage and screen since the 60s. First achieving success as a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre of Great Britain and winning 5 Olivier Awards for his stage work, he later achieved fame worldwide for his film work. His performances as Magneto in X-Men and Gandalf in Lord of the Rings cemented him as a cultural icon.
14. Patrick Stewart
The man behind Captain Picard and Charles Xavier, Patrick Stewart has graced the world stage for over six decades. Working prolifically on both stage and screen, Stewart has a litany of iconic roles to his name. With a range that encompasses video games, cartoon voiceovers, and Shakespeare performances, Stewart remains one of the most talented actors in the world today.