Kris Marshall

Kris Marshall, born Kristopher Marshall on 1 April 1973 in Bath, Somerset, England, is a versatile English actor and comedian whose career spans three decades. He first attracted attention in the early 1990s with guest roles on British television, notably a brief appearance on The Bill, before landing the breakout part of Nick Harper in the popular BBC sitcom My Family in 2000; the role cemented his reputation for sharp comedic timing and earned him a British Comedy Awards Best Newcomer trophy in 2002. In 2003 he reached a global audience as the flamboyant Colin Frissell in the ensemble rom‑com Love Actually, a performance that showcased his ability to blend charm with absurdity and became a cult favorite. Marshall continued to diversify his portfolio, portraying the gritty DS Luke Stone in the police drama Murder City (2004‑2008) and appearing in a series of memorable BT Retail advertisements as the hapless Adam, a character that kept him in the public eye beyond the screen. His theatrical credentials were bolstered by a turn in Neil LaBute’s Fat Pig at Trafalgar Studios in 2008, proving his range extends to serious stage work. The actor’s most significant dramatic turn arrived in 2014 when he was cast as DI Humphrey Goodman in the island‑set mystery series Death in Paradise; his witty detective quickly became a fan favourite, leading to a heartfelt departure in 2017 and a revival in the spin‑off Beyond Paradise in 2023. Outside of acting, Marshall is an avid Aston Villa supporter, survived a serious car accident in Bristol in 2008, and is married to Hannah Dodkin with whom he shares two children. His enduring appeal lies in a unique blend of comedic flair, dramatic depth, and a down‑to‑earth personality that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.