Actors You Probably Didn't Know Were British

Many actors who play iconic American characters actually hail from across the pond. Here’s a deeper dive into some of the most surprising British actors in Hollywood.

Henry Cavill
Sadly, Superman is not American. Henry Cavill, known for his role as the Man of Steel, was born in Jersey. Just not that Jersey—he’s from the Channel Islands' Jersey. Cavill's charming British accent and suave demeanor have won him fans worldwide, but his roots are distinctly British.

Idris Elba
By now, you probably know Stringer Bell is actually a Brit. Idris Elba was born in London and has built a diverse career that spans music, television, and film. Despite his tough American characters, Elba's British roots shine through in interviews. It's a wonder he hasn't been officially cast as James Bond yet. Shakes head

Christian Bale
Every award season, we’re reminded that both Batman and Bateman are actually English. Christian Bale was born in Wales and has a talent for disappearing into his roles, often changing his accent seamlessly. His performances in films like "American Psycho" and "The Dark Knight" showcase his versatility and commitment to his craft.

Charlie Hunnam
He’s the ultimate American TV badass, best known for his role in "Sons of Anarchy." However, Charlie Hunnam was born in Newcastle upon Tyne, which is about as un-American-sounding as it gets. Hunnam's transition from British television to Hollywood stardom highlights his impressive acting range.

James McAvoy
Is there anything smoother than James McAvoy's Scottish accent? Born in Glasgow, McAvoy has charmed audiences in roles ranging from "Atonement" to the "X-Men" series. His natural accent is a delightful surprise for fans who first encountered him as the telepathic Professor X.

Daniel Kaluuya
Unless you first caught him in the very British "Black Mirror," you may not have heard Daniel Kaluuya's distinctly British accent. Born in London, Kaluuya's breakout role in "Get Out" showcased his talent and versatility. His performances continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

Tom Holland
It’s not just Superman who hails from across the pond. Spider-Man's Peter Parker is actually Kingston upon Thames' Tom Holland. Holland’s youthful charm and impressive athleticism have made him a standout in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Don't worry, Captain America is still American.

Tom Hardy
Beneath his many masks and deep, often menacing vocals lies a real-life London accent. Tom Hardy, known for roles in "The Dark Knight Rises," "Mad Max: Fury Road," and "Venom," brings a rugged intensity to his characters. His British heritage adds an extra layer to his complex portrayals.

Sacha Baron Cohen
No, not Kazakhstan. Sacha Baron Cohen, famous for his comedic characters like Borat and Ali G, was born in London and grew up in England. His versatility and fearlessness in tackling controversial roles highlight his distinct British flair. Very niiiiice.

Andrew Lincoln
"Riiiiick!" If you’re a fan of "The Walking Dead," you know Andrew Lincoln as the determined leader Rick Grimes. Another Londoner, Lincoln has perfected the American accent, fooling many fans into believing he’s a native Southerner.

Henry Golding
Yes, we all know "Crazy Rich Asians" star Henry Golding is a heartthrob. But he’s also English, having grown up in both Malaysia and the UK. Golding’s multicultural background and British charm make him a unique and appealing presence in Hollywood.

Kit Harington
Kit Harington’s accent in "Game of Thrones" may be English, but it’s not quite Harington's own London accent. He adopted a gruff northern English accent to mimic his TV father, Sean Bean. Harington’s portrayal of Jon Snow has made him a household name, with fans often surprised by his true origins.

Sean Bean
Speaking of Sean Bean, he hails from Handsworth, England. Not quite the North, but close enough. Bean’s distinctive voice and rugged appearance have made him a favorite in both British and American films, often playing heroic or tragic roles.

Gary Oldman
If he was in "Harry Potter," he is likely British. Gary Oldman, who played Sirius Black, is indeed British. This means that most of the Batman crew, including Oldman as Commissioner Gordon, hail from the UK. (Hate to break it to you, but Michael Caine is not American either.)

John Boyega
You might know him best as Finn in "Star Wars," but what you might not realize is that John Boyega hails from a city not in a distant galaxy—London, to be exact. Boyega’s rise to fame showcases his talent and the growing diversity of British actors in Hollywood.

Robert Pattinson
Remember the "Harry Potter" rule. Robert Pattinson, who played Cedric Diggory before becoming the brooding vampire in "Twilight," is British. And apparently, the new Batman rule applies here too, as Pattinson will don the cape and cowl in the latest adaptation.

Nicholas Hoult
How does one man become even more attractive? An English accent. Nicholas Hoult, known for his roles in "About a Boy," "Mad Max: Fury Road," and the "X-Men" series, hails from Wokingham, Berkshire. His charm and versatility have made him a standout in both film and television.

Damian Lewis
With roles in "Band of Brothers" and "Homeland," you would be forgiven for thinking Damian Lewis is a good old American. He’s actually from London. Lewis’s ability to seamlessly adopt an American accent has made him a favorite in both British and American productions.

Kevin McKidd
Kevin McKidd was born in Scotland before moving to America, attending med school, and working at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. Well, at least that’s the story on "Grey’s Anatomy," where McKidd plays Dr. Owen Hunt. His Scottish roots add depth to his on-screen persona.

Riz Ahmed
Also known as Riz MC, Riz Ahmed is both an English actor and rapper. Born in London, Ahmed’s breakout role in "Nightcrawler" and his powerful performance in "Sound of Metal" have earned him critical acclaim. His talents extend beyond acting, making him a multifaceted artist in the industry.