Emma Thompson
An actor or actress receiving Dame Commander's title is not an everyday occurrence, and that rare honor alone speaks volumes about Emma Thompson's talent. She started her career as a comic at the Cambridge University with Hugh Laurie and Stephen Fry's likes, before the world of acting soon came calling for her.
While Thompson is known for playing button-downed and classy roles, she did manage to surprise us with unexpectedly brilliant character choices in her three-decade-long career. That said, critics still consider Sense and Sensibility and The Remains of the Day as her best works.
Julie Andrews
After overcoming numerous challenges as a youngster, Julie Andrews rose to become a revelation of sorts. She started getting all the limelight as a theatre star and eventually became a global superstar as the lucky woman who played the iconic Mary Poppins.
Despite her status as an acclaimed singer and an Academy Award-winning actress, Andrews auditioned for The Sound of Music. As history indicates, the film went on to become an all-time classic. Even today, the gracious lady remains as humble as ever and doesn’t take her astounding success or accolades for granted.
Helena Bonham Carter
Helena Bonham Carter starred in almost a dozen films with her then-husband and acclaimed director Tim Burton. Yet, the magazines ended up speaking of her eccentric and brilliantly exceptional acting most of the time.
Whether it is a whimsical animated production like Corpse Bride or something serious on the lines of Suffragette, the actress never fails to impress us! Now, Helena is in her late fifties, but that indomitable creative spark continues to thrive. We hope that she continues to deliver strong performances like her recent ones in Enola Holmes and Ocean’s 8.
Alan Rickman
Most people recognize Alan Rickman as Professor Snape from the Harry Potter franchise, but his body of work happens to be more wide-ranging than that. For an actor struggling with a speech impediment during childhood, he did manage to achieve a tremendous amount in his lifetime.
Until his passing in 2016, Rickman was one of the few artists who could recite Shakespearean sonnets and comedic one-liners with an equally charismatic flair. All in all, he will go down in the history books as the most talented actor who never got nominated for an Academy Award - An oversight the Academy should remedy, even if only posthumously.
Colin Firth
We all know that Colin Firth is the go-to choice of many directors when they want to cast a quintessentially British role. It is mainly because of his performances at the West End theatre and the convincing portrayal of George VI in The King’s Speech.
During the Commonwealth honors for the Queen’s birthday, Firth received an Order of the British Empire, a highly coveted honor that, as an accolade, even supersedes the likes of SAG and Academy awards. Fans and audiences worldwide are now eager to see him dazzle once more on-screen in Operation Mincemeat.
Anthony Hopkins
Legend has it that many ‘90s kids still can’t sleep properly at night when reminded of Anthony Hopkins’s performance in The Silence of the Lambs! Besides playing the gruesome yet intriguing Hannibal Lecter, he brought many iconic real-life personalities such as John Quincy Adams and Richard Nixon to life.
A knighthood and lifetime achievement awards from the BAFTA and Golden Globe community sums up his entire career and his contributions to the world of cinema. Let us hope that the octogenarian continues to enthrall us for many more years to come!
Tom Hardy
Here's Britain's most uncompromising and gruffest talent whose range encompasses hardcore action and intense dramas - Tom Hardy. The award-winning star started in theatre and even had a brief stint in rapping before deciding to be an actor.
Being the son of the acclaimed comedy writer Edward Hardy, Tom did try his hand at comedy with This Means War, but that didn't work for him, and he moved back to his more serious roles. Then came the likes of Inception, Dark Knight Rises, and Mad Max: Fury Road. Need we say more about Tom's acting prowess?
Charlie Chaplin
We cannot talk about legendary British stars and possibly miss 'The Tramp,' can we? Charlie Chaplin revolutionized movies of the twentieth century with his wit and humorous portrayals of events surrounding him. His films like Modern Times, City Lights, and The Great Dictator, are studied even today by students of cinema.
While Chaplin's seventy-five-year long career had its fair share of difficulties, no one can disagree with the fact that he was a great filmmaker and an even better actor. The only qualm he might have had is that he never won an Academy Award in either of these two categories!
Patrick Stewart
Patrick Stewart is a veteran in the film and theatre circuit and has at least a hundred screen and stage credits to his name. Thanks to his time with The Royal Shakespeare Company, we still get to see a stately thespian charm in his performances.
At the ripe age of forty-seven, Stewart got his big break in Star Trek: The Next Generation, wherein he played Jean-Luc Picard, and soon, he became a legend among youngsters. Subsequently, he starred as Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men film series and King Henry II in The Lion in Winter, reaffirming his position as the quintessential good guy of Hollywood!
David Tennant
Not many people know that David Tennant was in the fourth installment of the Harry Potter series before receiving his ticket to fame. Another alumnus of the Royal Shakespeare Company, Tennant became a household name after Doctor Who became all the rage in the US. His impeccable charm and flawless British accent ended up making the audience swoon, and soon, many directors lined up at his doorstep.
With Tennant barely in his fifties, we have a feeling that many more exciting roles and awards are going to come his way. Or else, he can always go back to being the ‘tenth doctor’!
Gary Oldman
Widely considered the highest-grossing actor of all time after his movies grossed over $11 billion worldwide, Gary Oldman is a veteran British actor whose talent is undisputed. Known for his intense acting style, the filmmaker has starred in over seventy productions since his debut in 1982, with his performance in Darkest Hour as Winston Churchill earning him an Academy Award.
So versatile is Gary that apart from acting, he has worked in music, voice acting, and writing, with his book about vampires, a bestseller. The actor doesn't seem to be slowing down, and you can catch his acting brilliance in the upcoming series Slow Horses.
Jude Law
Famous for his performance in the critically acclaimed film The Grand Budapest Hotel, Jude Law is an acclaimed actor, who since his Hollywood debut in 1994, has risen to become one of the most sought-after names in the business. Law has an impressive portfolio that ranges from the fantasy films like Fantastic Beasts: Crimes of Grindelwald to superhero films like Captain Marvel, all of which show his versatility.
The award-winning actor's endeavors don't end on the screen; Law's actively involved in other ventures, including advertising, music, and filmmaking. As an influential figure, the veteran puts his fame into good use, helping numerous charity organizations and taking part in peace activism.
Ian McKellen
In British film history, we don't think anyone has impacted the industry as Ian McKellen has over the years. The veteran actor has had a massively successful career, having starred in over fifty productions with his role as Gandalf in The Hobbit and The Lord of The Rings trilogies, bringing him critical acclaim.
McKellen is a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ community, having come out as gay in 1988, the venerated performer has been involved in numerous social causes and supports several charity organizations. It's safe to say that his status as a cultural icon is one well-deserved, and we hope to see him in more blockbusters!
Tom Hiddleston
We think we can all agree that for one to be named 'the most stylish man' by several publications, they must be doing something right. Tom Hiddleston often ranks among the best-dressed people, and it's easy to see why; his chic style is jaw-droppingly brilliant!
The London-born actor is famous for his role as Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which propelled him to worldwide fame. Apart from his successful film career, Hiddleston is also an active philanthropist; he supports numerous charities, including Amnesty International and Time's Up movement, and is the UK ambassador to UNICEF.
Eddie Redmayne
You might know Eddie Redmayne as Newt from the commercially successful film series Fantastic Beasts, but did you know that he was a model before acting? Eddie modeled for Burberry, and in 2015, he ranked at the top of the GQ's list of 50 best-dressed British men. Talk about class!
The model shifted his sights to acting, and he started in theater before landing his first film role in Like Minds. Eddie's decision to quit the runway has definitely paid off, as he has since starred in over thirty productions, winning awards and making the big bucks in the process.
Benedict Cumberbatch
When you're born into a family of actors, it isn't surprising to pick up after your parents. Benedict Cumberbatch grew up around parents, who had both ventured into acting, and we can all agree that he inherited the brilliant talent from them.
The London-born actor started his theater career before landing his first film role in Tipping the Velvet before playing Sherlock Holmes in the television series Sherlock, which brought him worldwide recognition. It seems like the actor's decision to follow in his folk's footsteps has paid off, as he has over $40 million in his bank account today.
John Hurt
This list wouldn't be complete without John Hurt appearing on it. The veteran actor had an incredibly successful career that spanned over five decades and involved over 100 films and television series. His most notable works include Midnight Express and The Elephant Man, which earned him Academy Awards.
For his services to drama, John was knighted in 2015 and is today widely regarded among Britain's magnificent actors. Sadly, the veteran filmmaker passed on in 2017 after suffering from pancreatic cancer. While he might be gone, his impact in the film industry will always remain.
Ewan McGregor
'May the force be with you!' - For many fans of the Star Wars prequel movie trilogy, this phrase resonates, and it was made famous by Ewan McGregor, who played Obi-Wan Kenobi. The acclaimed Scottish actor has since made a name for himself in Hollywood, appearing in smash box-office hit films like Birds of Prey and Fargo, the acclaimed tv series.
McGregor's success has seen him named among the most influential people in British culture, and it's easy to see why. Apart from acting and singing, the director is actively involved in charity work and UNICEF ambassador in the UK.
Liam Neeson
Anyone who has watched the Taken movie series knows who Liam Neeson is. Known for his deep, stern voice, the actor rose to fame after playing Oskar Schindler in the blockbuster film Schindler's List and has since appeared in numerous commercially successful productions, making him one of the highest-grossing actors of all time.
Neeson is quite a vocal figure in Hollywood who isn't afraid to voice his opinion, which has brought him acclaim and criticism in equal measure. The Irish actor doesn't seem to be slowing down though, he has some upcoming work, and we can't wait to witness his genius!
Jason Isaacs
Ever since he was a young kid in Liverpool, Jason Isaacs knew that he wanted to be an entertainer. So he set out on a journey that would land him an astonishing career.
Now Jason is an accomplished actor with a slew of television and film credits to his name. You might think that you don't recognize his name or face, but picture this - the same visage with long silver hair. That's right! Jason is best known for his role as Lucius Malfoy in the Harry Potter film series. A part which he played from 2001 to 2011. Now, go and watch his other work too. You'll be impressed!
Idris Elba
Actor, musician, DJ, fighter, writer. Is there anything that English entertainment specialist Idris Elba cannot do? When you look at his impressive resume, it certainly seems that this Londoner can do no wrong.
Idris first started in television in 1994 when he joined the cast of the series Crimewatch and it wasn't long after that he moved to the States, where his career flourished. Now Idris is an internationally acclaimed superstar, and the roles keep pouring in. It's safe to say that whether he's on-screen or playing music in a club, this legend's talents are indeed a sight to behold.
Michael Fassbender
One of Ireland's greatest exports is whiskey, but actor Michael Fassbender is a close second in that category.
Michael made his television debut in the 2001 miniseries Band of Brothers and didn't look back. Now, two decades later, he's encompassed a wide variety of roles on both television and the big screen. But acting isn't this entertainer's only passion. It turns out that Michael has an inherent need for speed and is quite the race car driver, and has competed in several races like the famous Le Mans challenge. Let's hope this doesn't keep him away from entertainment in the future.
Martin Freeman
When English actor Martin Freeman started his career in 1997 on the mockumentary series The Office, he had no idea how huge it would become.
Fast forward to more than twenty years later, and Martin has appeared in several films and television shows in both his home country and the United States and has shown the world what remarkable talents he possesses. Through movies like The Hobbit and his role in the hit series Fargo, Martin has gone from being relatively unknown to a face that people now recognize worldwide.
Alec Guinness
The year 2000 was a sad one for the entertainment world as we lost the venerable actor, Sir Alec Guinness.
But his astonishing acting career is still celebrated today and serves as an inspiration for those who came into the fold after him. To mention all the parts he played would take days, but you'll most certainly remember him from his role as Obi-Wan Kenobi in the original Star Wars films. Alec won almost all the notable cinematic awards in his time, and he was a proud veteran who fought for his country. Saying that he was a prime example of a man and an entertainer would be an understatement.
Tilda Swinton
One wouldn't believe that British actress Tilda Swinton is in her early sixties as she doesn't appear to have aged a day despite having a career that started in 1984!
Tilda began her time in entertainment as part of the Royal Shakespeare Company and dabbled in some very experimental films early on, which other actresses might not have thought about so early on. Now, Tilda is an award-winning entertainer who has made it in both England and Hollywood, and it is safe to say that this cinematic talent certainly made the right choices for herself and her career from the very beginning!
Sean Bean
English actor Sean Bean's acting career began on stage in 1983, but it wasn't long before he landed a commercial for a non-alcoholic lager that helped him gain national exposure in his home country.
After that, Sean started procuring more lucrative roles and landed Richard Sharpe's part in the acclaimed television show Sharpe. A performance he embodied for four years. Now the talented actor is part of the A-list mainstream in England and Hollywood and boasts an incredible resume filled with credits such as The Lord of the Rings and GoldenEye. And as far as we know, he plans to add to that list for years to come.
Vanessa Redgrave
Redgrave is one of the biggest names in entertainment. In her 80s currently, the actress is among the few who can be said to have achieved the pinnacle of success in Hollywood. Her titles tell half the story of a talented actress whose career spans across more than six decades.
Where did it all start for this icon? Redgrave made her debut starring role in the 1960s, The Tiger and the Horse, and interestingly, she co-starred with her father in the flick. She honed her skills, featuring in numerous blockbusters, and made her indelible mark in the industry. Hats off to a queen!
Christian Bale
When actor Christian Bale made his debut in 1986's film Anastasia: The Mystery of Anna, he delivered a masterclass of performance, and you could tell he was on route to the top. Well, you'd be spot on, as he is among the best in the game, with notable roles in blockbusters like The Dark Knight trilogy.
His film efforts have paid off, and he is still one of the most bankable actors decades since he made his big entrance. Bale has also earned himself a fortune while at it, and he currently ranks among the wealthiest leading men in Hollywood.
Richard Attenborough
English broadcaster and filmmaker Richard Attenborough’s life journey is nothing short of inspirational. You might look at the man’s achievements and think he lived two lifetimes, given the sheer amount of what he achieved.
His exploits will not fit in a page, and for the veteran who conquered the skies as a soldier in the Royal Airforce and later took nature documentaries by storm, legends are already told about him. As an actor and director, Richard excelled everywhere, and his films are still benchmarks of excellence. Years after he took his final bow, in 2014, his name is still hallowed in the world of wildlife and natural preservation.
James McAvoy
This British performer made his debut in 1995, aged 16, and his journey through the decades has been as eventful as the many films James McAvoy's starred in during that time.
For the eight years since he made his debut, McAvoy focused solely on TV appearances until he switched to film in 2003. As the star went on to feature in some pretty exciting blockbusters while bagging awards in the process, it was a magical transition. It's easy to see why people fall in love with the actor; besides his superb acting skills, the man has a big heart personality, which endears him to many.
Colin Farrell
Like most stars who start their careers early, Colin Farrell is no exception. He started his on-screen exploits in BBC's drama Ballykissangel, then just a 12-year old. He gained recognition in Hollywood for his leading role in Tigerland, a drama war film. That was in 2000, and Colin's story just gets better.
The 21st century's turning came with good tidings, and he quickly established dominance by displaying unforgettable moments in films such as The Recruit and SWAT. Colin is still very much active in the game, and you're sure to catch him in the next blockbuster, doing what he does best; captivating audiences around the world.
David Thewlis
Also known as David Wheeler, this 57-year old award winner had his sights set on the big screen from a tender age. With brilliant performances in over fifty films, this legend started as a poet and a musician in a rock band, later delving into scriptwriting, a task he believed was his calling. It was and raised his net worth to the tune of millions of dollars.
His most notable appearances have been in the Harry Potter movie franchise, which has had a massive viewership worldwide. He also portrayed Ares in the Marvel comics adaptation of Wonder Woman to rave reviews.
Sean Connery
As the first actor to portray James Bond in the hugely successful franchise, Sean Connery definitely put in the performance of a lifetime. That was not his only blockbuster, and his face was quite familiar, appearing in some of the biggest films of his time, including Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade and The Hunt For Red October.
It’s too bad that this movie icon took his last bow upon his demise in 2020, leaving a pair of some enormous shoes to fill. Nevertheless, Sean’s memories are well preserved in his awe-inspiring flicks, and by his son too, who proudly carries the family mantle.
Emma Watson
Any time you talk of Harry Potter, the name Emma Watson has to pop up. This lady started as a child actor in this renowned film trilogy as one of the main actors juggling her demanding filming schedules and school. Her appearance in most of their productions even necessitated a stunt double to cover her.
This role proved to be Watson’s silver lining, gaining her worldwide fame and some of the most lucrative endorsement deals, including the UN women goodwill ambassador. Now in her 30s years, she is one of the most sought after actresses, having featured in multiple blockbuster films in such a short time.
Theo James
When you are a brand ambassador for a fragrance as big as Hugo Boss, you are bound to be a head-turner. Such is the life of Theo, who is also twice as good looking as he smells. Therefore, it was not a surprise when he got cast in a role where he had ultra human abilities, catapulting him to fame and some of the most desirable endorsement deals.
Theo started in a band, taking advantage of his voice and looking to pull the masses before discovering and cast in a romantic movie, a part he aced, proving his creative diversity and talent.
Michael Gambon
'Sir' is Michael Gambon's official title after being knighted by the Queen. The 80-year old actor has been turning heads since his rise to fame, executing each role he bagged with the utmost tenacity, to the point of a corner at a race track now being named after him.
Gambon's long winding stint in the acting industry has been one uphill ride, one that has been propelled by the fact that he is English, the ethnicity not having produced the most renowned actors as their American counterparts. Yet if this is list is anything to go by, the Brits are not too far behind.
Emily Blunt
2001 was the year that English actress Emily Blunt made her debut on stage, and from there on out, there was no looking back for this talented entertainer.
Today Emily is a household name across the world, and the list of films and series she's been part of is nearly endless. These include her breakout hit The Devil Wears Prada and, of course, the celebrated 2018 horror hit A Quiet Place created by her husband actor and producer John Krasinski. There is no doubt that we're still going to see a lot more of what this talented woman can do in the future.
Rowan Atkinson
We all know Rowan Atkinson from his role as the comically clumsy Mr. Bean, but there is more to this talented actor than that character alone. Since this English actor's career started in 1978, the entertainment hasn't stopped, and it's no wonder that this comedic genius is considered one of the fifty funniest British entertainers of all time.
Rowan is also known for his physical abilities in creating laughs, and that's because he actually has a stammer, which forced him to develop a style that doesn't always rely on words to get the audiences roaring with hilarity! Now that takes some brainpower and talent.
Hugh Laurie
It's safe to say that there are few people who haven't watched the acclaimed series House, starring English actor Hugh Laurie. But did you know that Hugh's career started way back in England in 1981?
This esteemed English actor first started rising to prominence when he joined forces with entertainer Stephen Fry for the comedic exploits of their show Fry and Laurie but it wasn't long before the talented performer struck out on his own. Now Hugh is one of the most-watched leading men in the history of television, as well as an accomplished musician and writer. We wish we were this skilled in merely one of those endeavors.
Michael Caine
Widely considered a British film icon and famous for his Cockney accent, Michael Caine is one of the legendary actors, with a career spanning over six decades. The actor made his film debut in 1956's A Hill in Korea and has since starred in an astonishing 130 plus movies!
With such a stellar career, it's no wonder he is ranked among the highest-grossing actors on the planet, with his movies bringing in over $7 billion. Despite his old age, Caine doesn't seem like he will hang his boots anytime soon, as he is all set to appear in the upcoming Twist.