Born in South Africa in 1956, he grew up in various countries due to his father's diplomatic career. He studied at Cambridge University, where he began directing plays. Transitioning to film and television, he gained acclaim for directing "Notting Hill" (1999), a romantic comedy that became a worldwide hit. His diverse filmography includes works like "Changing Lanes," "Venus," and "My Cousin Rachel." Renowned for his ability to blend humor with drama, he continued to work in both theater and film until his passing in 2021.