Nicholas Woodeson

Nicholas Woodeson is a distinguished English actor whose career spans over five decades, encompassing a remarkable breadth of work across film, television, and stage. Born in Sudan on 30 November 1949, he spent his early childhood in Haifa, Israel before moving to England where he cultivated a passion for performance at prep school in Sussex and later at Marlborough College. After reading English at the University of Sussex and participating in student drama festivals, he earned a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and embarked on a professional journey that would see him become a versatile character actor admired for his subtlety and depth. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s he honed his craft in regional theatres, joining the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1982 where he remained for seven years, and later appearing on Broadway in productions such as Man and Superman and An Inspector Calls.

Woodeson’s screen résumé is equally impressive, featuring early work in Heaven’s Gate (1980) and notable roles in The Russia House, The Pelican Brief, Skyfall, and The Danish Girl. On television he portrayed historical figures and complex antagonists in series like Rome, Borgen, and the BBC’s Conspiracy. His theatrical credits include acclaimed West End revivals of Pinter and productions at the National Theatre, such as Rocket to the Moon. Known for his disciplined preparation and ability to disappear into roles, Woodeson has earned nominations for both Drama Desk and Olivier awards, and in 2017 was nominated for a UK Theatre Award for his performance as Willy Loman. He continues to live in London while maintaining ties to the United States, contributing his seasoned talent to new stage and screen projects.