Some of the best actors of all time hail from England, and whether you love these English men for their acting talents or just their accents, there's no denying that many of these English actors are among some of the best actors in film history. Whether living or dead, these men made England a top source for acting talent in Hollywood and will go down in history as the best.
Who are the all-time top English actors in film history? Some of these actors from England became famous for roles as Americans, as Jedi (hi, Alec Guinness!), as detectives, and any number of other memorable characters. There's just something about these English gentlemen that movie audiences love, and their fantastic acting abilities have made many of them award winners as well.
This list features the greatest English actors of all time including Charlie Chaplin, Anthony Hopkins, Benedict Cumberbatch, Christian Bale, Cary Grant, David Niven, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Alan Rickman. Don't see your favorite actor from England? Add him below so other film fans can vote. Then, be sure to vote and rerank the list according to who you think are the best English actors to have ever graced the screen.
- 1Die Hard, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
Best known for the role of Severus Snape in Harry Potter, Alan Rickman was a critically acclaimed actor with an unmistakable voice. His impressive filmography spanned over three decades and included memorable roles in Die Hard, Love Actually, and Sweeney Todd. Sadly, this talented actor left us too soon, passing away from cancer in 2016.
- Birthplace: Hammersmith, London, England, UK
- 2
Undoubtedly, Sir Anthony Hopkins is one of the finest actors of all time. With a career spanning more than five decades, he has captivated audiences with his outstanding performances in films like Silence of the Lambs, Legends of the Fall, and Thor. Hopkins' ability to portray complex characters with depth and emotion has earned him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award.
- Birthplace: Margam, Port Talbot, Wales, UK
- 3The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, X-Men
The legendary Sir Ian McKellen is a highly respected figure in both theater and film. He is best known for his roles as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings trilogy and Magneto in the X-Men films. In addition to these iconic roles, McKellen has had a long and distinguished career on stage, earning multiple Tony Award nominations.
- Birthplace: Burnley, Lancashire, England, UK
- 4
Versatility best describes the career of Gary Oldman, a remarkable actor who has played a wide range of characters in various genres. Fans will recognize him as Sirius Black from the Harry Potter series, Commissioner Gordon from the Dark Knight trilogy, and Winston Churchill in Darkest Hour. Oldman's brilliant performances have earned him several awards, including an Oscar.
- Birthplace: New Cross, London, England, UK
- 5
With a distinctive Cockney accent and over six decades of experience, Sir Michael Caine is hands down one of the most accomplished British actors. He has appeared in well over 100 films, including iconic roles in movies such as Alfie, The Italian Job, and the Dark Knight trilogy. Throughout his career, Caine has received numerous awards and remains an influential figure in the film industry.
- Birthplace: Rotherhithe, London, England, UK
- 6
A revered actor, both on stage and screen, Sir Patrick Stewart has an unforgettable presence. Famous for his roles as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Professor X in the X-Men series, Stewart is also a classically trained Shakespearian actor. With an undeniable charisma, he continues to captivate audiences across generations.
- Birthplace: Mirfield, Yorkshire, England, UK
