The Best Scottish Actors of All Time
- 1United Kingdom
Arguably one of the most iconic Scottish actors in cinematic history, Sean Connery's legendary career was defined by his unforgettable role as James Bond. This suave secret agent became synonymous with Connery's name after he appeared in seven 007 films, earning a BAFTA Fellowship for his contributions to film. Yet this powerhouse of an actor didn't stop there; he continued to dazzle audiences with roles ranging from Indiana Jones' father to Agamemnon in Time Bandits, amassing countless awards throughout his illustrious career.
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- 2New Galloway, Dumfriesshire, Scotland
A powerhouse in the realm of Scottish actors, Sam Heughan rose to international prominence with his portrayal of Jamie Fraser in the critically acclaimed television series Outlander. His riveting performance won him a devoted fanbase and earned him numerous accolades, including a Saturn Award for Best Actor. With an impressive range that extends beyond period dramas, Heughan has also captivated audiences in spy thrillers like The Spy Who Dumped Me and comic book adaptations such as Bloodshot.
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- 3Scotland, Perth
A versatile and charismatic performer, Ewan McGregor first caught the world's attention with his breakthrough role as Renton in Danny Boyle's groundbreaking film Trainspotting. From there, he went on to captivate fans across genres by playing Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Star Wars prequel trilogy and portraying both Christian and Satine's singing love interest in the romantic musical Moulin Rouge! Ewan McGregor's talent has earned him a Golden Globe, and he continues to astonish audiences with his transformative performances in projects such as Fargo, Doctor Sleep, and the Obi-Wan Kenobi miniseries.
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- 4Port Glasgow, Scotland, UK
James McAvoy's undeniable talent has led him to star in various critically acclaimed films and television series. The Scottish actor first gained international prominence with roles in The Chronicles of Narnia and Atonement before delivering a powerhouse performance as Charles Xavier in the X-Men franchise. McAvoy's ability to embody complex characters was particularly evident in Split and its sequel Glass, where he fearlessly portrayed a man with multiple personalities.
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- 5Paisley, Scotland, UK
From his jaw-dropping role as King Leonidas in 300 to his charming portrayal of the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera, Gerard Butler has demonstrated incredible range throughout his career. This versatile Scotsman has garnered praise across genres, from action-packed blockbusters like Olympus Has Fallen to heartfelt romantic comedies like P.S. I Love You.
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- 6Bathgate, Scotland, UK
David Tennant's dynamic range has won him fans around the globe, thanks in part to his unforgettable portrayal of the Tenth Doctor on Doctor Who. The Scottish actor has proven he can excel in any genre, whether it's voicing Scrooge McDuck in the DuckTales reboot or embodying a sinister villain in psychological thriller series Broadchurch.
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- 7Glasgow, Scotland, UK
A veteran actor known for his deep voice and imposing presence, Graham McTavish has lent his talents to an array of memorable roles. From playing Dougal MacKenzie on Outlander to lending his voice to Dracula in Netflix's Castlevania series, McTavish consistently leaves a lasting impression on viewers. He further solidified his status among fantasy fans by bringing Dwalin the Dwarf to life in Peter Jackson's epic adaptation of The Hobbit.
- 8Mirfield, Yorkshire, England
Though not born in Scotland—having been raised near Scotland—Sir Patrick Stewart is well-regarded among Scottish actors for his distinctive voice and commanding performances. Best known for portraying Captain Jean-Luc Picard on Star Trek: The Next Generation and Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men films, Stewart's exceptional acting abilities have earned him a richly deserved knighthood and widespread admiration.
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- 9Rutherglen, Scotland
Having showcased his versatile acting abilities on both stage and screen, Richard Rankin has gained recognition for his powerful performances in popular television dramas such as Outlander, where he plays Roger Wakefield, and The Last Kingdom. With a talent for seamlessly transitioning between dramatic roles and lighter fare like the romantic comedy Burnistoun, Rankin continues to captivate audiences across genres.
- 10Glasgow, Scotland, UK
A powerhouse performer who consistently delivers emotive performances, Robert Carlyle gained widespread recognition for starring roles in Trainspotting and The Full Monty before captivating television audiences as Rumpelstiltskin/Mr. Gold on Once Upon a Time. With numerous accolades under his belt—including two BAFTA Awards—Carlyle remains one of Scotland's most talented actors.
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- 11Elderslie, United Kingdom
From his heartbreaking turn as Robb Stark in Game of Thrones to his riveting portrayal of David Budd in Bodyguard—a role that earned him a Golden Globe—Richard Madden is undoubtedly one of Scotland's brightest stars. With undeniable charisma and an impressive range, Madden continues to make waves with prominent roles in projects such as Eternals from Marvel Studios.
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- 12Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
Iain Glen's storied career boasts an impressive array of memorable roles, from the noble Ser Jorah Mormont on Game of Thrones to the sinister explorer in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. With a talent for thoroughly embodying his characters and delivering captivating performances, Glen has earned widespread admiration from both critics and fans alike.
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Best known for his role as Ian Murray on Outlander, Steven Cree's steady rise through the ranks of Scotland's acting elite demonstrates his talent and versatility. With an impressive resume that includes appearances in Maleficent and Braveheart-inspired historical drama Macbeth, Cree continues to impress with each new project.
- 14Los Angeles, USA, California
Gary Lewis is known for his powerful portrayals of complex characters in films such as Billy Elliot and Gangs of New York. The talented Scottish actor has also excelled on television, earning acclaim for his role as Colum MacKenzie in Outlander and offering a heartwarming performance in the drama series His Dark Materials.
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- 15Anderston, Glasgow, Scotland
A true Scottish legend, Billy Connolly's career has spanned over five decades and encompassed everything from stand-up comedy to acting. Known for his distinctive voice, sharp wit, and endearing charm, Connolly has appeared in notable films such as Mrs. Brown—which earned him a BAFTA nomination—and The Hobbit trilogy. Despite recently retiring from live performances due to health issues, Connolly's unique talent continues to be celebrated worldwide.
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- 16Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
The late Ian Richardson was renowned for his work on stage – particularly with the Royal Shakespeare Company – as well as on screen. With memorable roles in projects like House of Cards (as the original Francis Urquhart) and Terry Pratchett's Hogfather, Richardson left an indelible mark on the world of acting.
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- 17Aberfeldy, Perthshire, Scotland
A multifaceted and award-winning actor, Alan Cumming has made an indelible mark on stage, film, and television. Renowned for his striking performances in projects like Cabaret—which won him a Tony Award—and the spy thriller series The Good Wife, Cumming's talent and magnetism have solidified his status as one of Scotland's most consistently captivating performers.
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- 18Dundee, Scotland, UK
With a career spanning over six decades, Brian Cox is revered among Scottish actors for his remarkable range and incredible versatility. From portraying Hannibal Lecter in Manhunter to earning acclaim for his role as Logan Roy in Succession, Cox's distinguished body of work has earned him numerous awards and nominations.
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- 19Rutherglen, Scotland, UK
Robbie Coltrane has become synonymous with two iconic roles: Hagrid in the Harry Potter films and criminal psychologist Eddie Fitzgerald in the television series Cracker. With a career that spans comedy, drama, and fantasy, Coltrane's versatility and unique presence have earned him multiple awards and a place among Scotland's acting elite.
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- 20Glasgow, Scotland, UK
Esteemed actor Peter Capaldi captured the hearts of millions when he took on the iconic role of the Twelfth Doctor on Doctor Who. With an impressive background that includes an Academy Award for directing short films and memorable roles in projects such as The Thick of It and Paddington, Capaldi has cemented his place among Scotland's finest talents.
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- 21Glasgow, Scotland, UK
Gaining worldwide recognition for his heartfelt portrayal of Pippin in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Billy Boyd has continued to showcase his talents in various film and television projects like Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. A gifted musician as well, Boyd remains a beloved figure among Scottish actors.
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- 22East Kilbride, Scotland, UK
From portraying Matthew in Four Weddings and a Funeral to embodying Dr. Iain McCallum on McCallum, John Hannah has demonstrated an impressive range throughout his career. With unforgettable performances across film and television—including fan-favorite series Spartacus—Hannah continues to captivate viewers worldwide.
- 23Glasgow, Scotland, UK
Known for his towering height and imposing presence, Rory McCann gained international fame for his portrayal of Sandor "The Hound" Clegane on Game of Thrones. With roles in Hot Fuzz, Clash of the Titans, and other action-packed titles under his belt, McCann remains one of Scotland's most recognizable actors.
- 24Edinburgh, Scotland
Mark Bonnar has earned praise for his work across television drama series such as Shetland, Catastrophe, Unforgotten, Line of Duty and Guilt. His versatility allows him to tackle diverse roles within various genres while continuing to impress critics and viewers alike.
- 25Glasgow, Scotland, UK
Having enjoyed a storied career spanning over six decades, David McCallum is best known for playing Illya Kuryakin on The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard on NCIS, and Steel in Sapphire & Steel. His undeniable talent has ensured he remains one of Scotland's most respected performers.
McCallum passed away on September 25, 2023.
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- 26
Bill Paterson
Glasgow, Scotland, UKAn esteemed actor with an extensive stage and screen career, Bill Paterson has delivered impactful performances in beloved films like Truly Madly Deeply as well as acclaimed television dramas like Law & Order: UK. His distinctive voice has graced numerous audiobooks and animated projects, ensuring Paterson remains one of Scotland's most respected talents.
- 27Paisley, Scotland, UK
Versatile actor Tom Conti boasts an impressive career across film, stage, and television. Best known for his Academy Award-nominated performance in Reuben, Reuben and starring alongside Jennifer Aniston in Friends, Conti's charm, wit, and magnetic personality have secured him a place among Scotland's most celebrated performers.
A rising talent on the Scottish acting scene, Grant O'Rourke has gained recognition for his role as Rupert MacKenzie in Outlander. With a strong background in theater, O'Rourke's career is expected to flourish as he takes on new and exciting roles across stage and screen.
- 29Elgin, Moray, Scotland
Known for his performances in Trainspotting and HBO's Rome, Kevin McKidd has become a household name thanks to his portrayal of Dr. Owen Hunt on Grey's Anatomy. A talented voice actor as well, McKidd has lent his voice to animated projects like Brave and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2.
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- 30Airdrie, United Kingdom
The late Ian Bannen enjoyed a long-standing acting career marked by numerous acclaimed performances across film, television, and theater. Best known for roles in Waking Ned Devine and Braveheart, Bannen's incredible talent was recognized with a BAFTA Award and an Academy Award nomination during his lifetime.
