Born in Wallsend, England, he is a British actor and comedian best known for his breakout role in Ken Loach's film "I, Daniel Blake," which earned critical acclaim and several awards, including a BAFTA for Best British Film. Prior to his film success, he was a well-regarded stand-up comedian and had numerous appearances on UK television panel shows. His stage work includes adaptations and original plays, showcasing his versatility across various media.