Born in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, he pursued acting at Arden School of Theatre in Manchester. His career began with roles in British TV dramas such as "Coronation Street" and "EastEnders". He gained wider recognition with performances in "The Red Riding Trilogy" and "Misfits". His versatility shines through in both dramatic and horror genres, including "Eden Lake" and "The Woman in Black". His voice work includes narrating documentaries and audiobooks, showcasing his dynamic storytelling skills.