Born on August 19, 1948, in Harrogate, England, he began his career in theater before transitioning to film and television. Known for his deep voice and commanding presence, he gained widespread recognition for his role as Mr. Carson, the butler, in the acclaimed series "Downton Abbey." His extensive career includes performances in films like "Shakespeare in Love" and "The Golden Compass." He has also worked extensively in voice acting and remains a respected figure in British acting.