20+ Iconic British Actors and the Period Dramas That Made Them Legends

20+ Iconic British Actors and the Period Dramas That Made Them Legends

From brooding romantics to commanding aristocrats, these British actors turned their period drama roles into unforgettable legends. Their performances not only defined television history but also became moments etched into popular culture.

Richard Armitage’s smoldering John Thornton in North & South captured hearts worldwide, while Colin Firth’s iconic Mr. Darcy in Pride & Prejudice remains one of the most celebrated roles in British drama. Aidan Turner’s Poldark scything scene became a viral sensation, and Sean Bean’s fearless portrayal of Richard Sharpe showed true grit both on and off screen.

Tom Hardy’s haunting Heathcliff, Matthew Macfadyen’s internet-beloved Darcy, and Jonathan Rhys Meyers’ award-winning Henry VIII prove the timeless power of these characters. Jeremy Brett’s definitive Sherlock Holmes and Derek Jacobi’s career-defining Claudius showcase performances that stand the test of time.

Meanwhile, modern stars like James Norton (Grantchester), Dan Stevens and Hugh Bonneville (Downton Abbey), Sam Heughan (Outlander), and Cillian Murphy (Peaky Blinders) carry the tradition forward, giving audiences new reasons to fall in love with British period drama.

From Anthony Andrews’ acclaimed Sebastian Flyte in Brideshead Revisited to Toby Stephens’ unforgettable Rochester in Jane Eyre, these roles cemented their place in television and film history.

Join us as we look back at 20+ iconic British actors and the period dramas that made them legends.

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Fair Use Note:
This video uses pictures and clips from public sources only for learning, commentary, news, research, and similar purposes under Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act. It is non-profit and made for educational use, which qualifies as fair use.

Also, it’s not always possible to find photos of very old actors, so sometimes we use the most recent images available, even if they are a bit old.