Fans have passionately ranked this list of the most exceptional British actors in history. British men possess an undeniable allure on the silver screen – maybe it’s their captivating accents or distinguished personas. Regardless, there exists a plethora of remarkable British actors and extraordinary English actors who have achieved worldwide acclaim, triumph, and numerous accolades.
Renowned for their unparalleled talent, Daniel Day-Lewis and Ben Kingsley are widely hailed as two of the most extraordinary actors in the annals of cinema. This compilation includes male actors hailing from the United Kingdom, encompassing the rich talents of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Anthony Hopkins and Gary Oldman, both esteemed British actors, also grace this list.
Which of these phenomenal British actors captivate your heart and imagination? Share your personal favorites from the distinguished UK actors featured below and stay tuned to witness if they reign supreme on this extraordinary list!
1. Alan Rickman
Alan Rickman was a much-loved British actor known for his unique voice. He captured hearts with his portrayals of complex villains who had a surprising human side, like Hans Gruber in Die Hard and Professor Snape in the Harry Potter series. It’s truly heartbreaking that he passed away in 2016. However, his legacy in the world of acting will endure, as he had a remarkable talent that never failed to captivate audiences.
Credits (Film): Die Hard, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
England, London
2. Ian McKellen
Ian McKellen, the guy known for his impressive Shakespearean skills, has totally nailed it when it comes to playing iconic characters. I mean, seriously, he completely transformed himself into the beloved Gandalf in both The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. And let’s not forget his kick-ass performance as Magneto in the X-Men series. This dude has got some serious talent for bringing immortal characters to life on the big screen. No wonder he’s considered one of the greatest British actors of all time.
Credits (Film): The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, X-Men, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, X-Men: The Last Stand
Burnley, Lancashire, England
3. Michael Caine
Michael Caine, a true legend of the silver screen, has had an incredible career portraying unforgettable characters. From the suave spy Harry Palmer to the devoted butler Alfred in The Dark Knight trilogy, Caine has left an indelible mark on cinema. His talent is undeniable, as he has been honored with two Academy Awards, captivating audiences worldwide with his distinct Cockney accent and magnetic on-screen charisma.
Credits (Film): The Dark Knight, The Dark Knight Rises, Batman Begins, Inception, The Prestige
Rotherhithe, London, England
4. Gary Oldman
Gary Oldman is known for his amazing ability to transform himself into different characters. He has played a variety of roles, ranging from Dracula to Winston Churchill. His talent has been recognized with an Academy Award for Best Actor, which he truly deserves. Oldman’s exceptional performances on screen have made him a respected and admired British actor, known for his versatility and charm.
Credits (Film): The Dark Knight, The Dark Knight Rises, Batman Begins, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2
New Cross, London, England
5. Anthony Hopkins
Anthony Hopkins is known for fearlessly delving into the chilling character of Dr. Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs. His portrayal haunts the realm of acting with an unparalleled intensity. Apart from his eerie intellect, he has taken on roles that showcase intricate emotional depth, solidifying his status as a legendary British actor.
Credits (Film): The Silence of the Lambs, Thor, Thor: The Dark World, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Legends of the Fall
Margam, Port Talbot, Wales
6. Benedict Cumberbatch
Benedict Cumberbatch is widely known for his chiseled features and velvet voice, which have propelled him into the limelight. He has brilliantly portrayed the enigmatic Sherlock Holmes and the complex mathematician Alan Turing, earning him a reputation as a talented actor. As a popular British actor, Cumberbatch consistently captivates audiences with his strong screen presence and undeniable charisma.
Credits (Film): Star Trek Into Darkness, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, 12 Years a Slave, Atonement, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
London, England, UK
7. Patrick Stewart
Patrick Stewart is a well-respected British actor who gained fame for his iconic roles. He portrayed Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation and brought wisdom to life as Professor X in the X-Men series. With his dignified demeanor and impressive vocal skills, he has earned the respect and adoration of countless fans.
Credits (Film): X-Men, X-Men: The Last Stand, X-Men 2, X-Men: Days of Future Past, X-Men Origins: Wolverine
Actors: Mirfield, Yorkshire, England
8. John Hurt
John Hurt had an extraordinary career that lasted over six decades. He played a tormented man in The Elephant Man, and his performance was haunting. He also gave us chills as Ollivander in the Harry Potter series. John Hurt’s amazing ability to bring vulnerability to his characters made him a legendary British actor. Sadly, we lost him, but his legacy lives on.
Credits (Film): Alien, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2, Spaceballs, V for Vendetta
Shirebrook, Derbyshire, England
9. Christopher Lee
Christopher Lee, with his commanding presence and resonant voice, became famous for his unforgettable performances as Count Dracula and Saruman in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. His portrayal of these iconic characters showcased his remarkable talent for embodying evil, earning him immense adoration and respect as one of the greatest British actors of all time.
Credits (Film): The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones
Belgravia, London, England
10. Alec Guinness
Alec Guinness, the legendary actor, truly left his mark on the silver screen with his unforgettable performances, especially as Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Star Wars series. His incredible talent and charisma made him one of the most beloved and versatile British actors in history.
Credits (Film): Star Wars, Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, Lawrence of Arabia, The Bridge on the River Kwai
England, London
11. Daniel Day-Lewis
Daniel Day-Lewis, a true shape-shifter in the world of acting, never fails to amaze and engage audiences with his incredible performances. From embodying the heartbreaking Christy Brown to embodying the remarkable Abraham Lincoln, he has rightfully earned an impressive three Best Actor Academy Awards. His ability to completely immerse himself in various roles has elevated him to a revered position among British actors.
Credits (Film): Gangs of New York, The Last of the Mohicans, There Will Be Blood, Lincoln, Gandhi
England, London
