| Real Name: | Derek Riddell |
| Birthday: | January 11, 1967 |
| Net Worth | N/A |
| Height: | 181 cm |
| Occupation: | Scottish Television and Theatre Actor |
Derek Riddell is a Scottish actor with a varied career spanning television, theatre, and film. Born on January 11, 1967, he has become notably recognized for his role as Richard Cawood in the critically acclaimed BBC One series “Happy Valley.” His acting portfolio is diverse, which has enabled him to portray a wide range of characters in different genres and platforms, contributing to his reputation as a versatile and skilled actor.
His performances extend beyond “Happy Valley” into other popular television series such as “Gentleman Jack” and “Industry.” Riddell has also made notable appearances in international shows, including a guest role in the American TV series “Ugly Betty.” Furthermore, he has appeared in the series “The Missing” and has had roles in “Doctor Who,” “Silent Witness,” “Waterloo Road,” and “Shetland,” showcasing his ability to engage with a variety of audiences.
In addition to his television work, Derek Riddell’s acting credits include theatrical productions and films, indicating the breadth of his talent. He maintains a strong presence in the entertainment industry, with a body of work that reflects his dedication to his craft and his capacity to leave a lasting impression on his audience.
Content Compass
Early Life and Education
Derek Riddell’s formative years in Glasgow set the stage for a career in acting, combining his Scottish roots with formal education at a prestigious London institution.
Beginnings in Scotland
Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Riddell was immersed in a family where the arts were appreciated; his mother was a former actress and his father had also enjoyed public recognition. He completed his tertiary education at the University of Strathclyde where he pursued a degree in business studies.
London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art
Post-graduation, Riddell transitioned from the field of business to the performing arts. He honed his craft at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), one of the UK’s most esteemed drama schools, graduating in 1990. His time at LAMDA laid the groundwork for a career that would span theatre, film, and television.
Acting Career
Derek Riddell’s career in acting spans television, film, and theatre, each medium showcasing his versatility and commitment to his craft. From impactful television series to memorable film roles and significant theatre productions, Riddell has left an indelible mark across various platforms.
Television Success
Riddell has achieved considerable success on television with notable appearances across numerous British and American series. In the UK, he is widely recognized for his role as Richard Cawood in BBC One‘s drama series Happy Valley, where his performance earned him critical acclaim. His character in Channel 4‘s The Book Group originally garnered him prominence. Other significant TV credits include Gentleman Jack, Industry, and The Missing, all of which showcase his range as an actor. Additionally, Riddell has made guest appearances on high-profile shows such as Ugly Betty, Doctor Who, Silent Witness, and Shetland. His recurring roles have also spanned series like Hard Sun and Gunpowder, further demonstrating his adaptability and depth as a television actor.
- Notable BBC One Appearances:
- Happy Valley
- Silent Witness
- Ripper Street
- Shetland
- Notable Guest Appearances:
- Doctor Who
- Ugly Betty
Notable Film Roles
While television has been a primary medium for Riddell, he has also stepped into the film arena with the same prowess. His role in the blockbuster Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald underscores his ability to shift between small and big screen productions effortlessly.
Theatre Contributions
Beyond his on-screen accomplishments, Derek Riddell has made significant contributions to theatre. He trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art and has since participated in an array of stage productions, reinforcing his reputation as a respected theatre actor. His background and training have undoubtedly informed his nuanced performances across various forms of media.
- Training and Theatre Background:
- Trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art
- Extensive work in theatre productions
Character Portrayals
Derek Riddell has made a significant mark through his diverse character portrayals in both television and movies. His work spans from deeply emotive roles to those embedded in high-stakes drama.
Iconic Television Characters
Richard Cawood stands as one of Riddell’s most notable television characters, featured in BBC One’s Happy Valley. Portraying the ex-husband of the lead sergeant, his character weaves into the intricate narrative of the crime series.
His versatility extends to other memorable roles such as Captain Sutherland in Trust Me, and Clement Cowan in The Missing. Contributions to iconic series like Doctor Who and Silent Witness further exhibit his adaptability to varied television genres. Riddell’s presence in Ugly Betty showcases his reach into American audiences, while his portrayal of Craig Bentham in Waterloo Road underscores his breadth in character absorption.
In more period-specific roles, Riddell can be seen as Frances Carrigan in Gentleman Jack and as Torquil Travers, one of Grindelwald’s followers, in the Fantastic Beasts films.
Filmography Highlights
- Happy Valley (BBC): Richard Cawood
- Trust Me (BBC): Captain Sutherland
- The Missing (BBC): Clement Cowan
- Doctor Who (BBC): Starring as a guest
- Ugly Betty (ABC): Minor role reaching international audiences
- Silent Witness (BBC): Varied guest roles
| Film/Show | Character | Notable Aspect |
|---|---|---|
| Fantastic Beasts | Torquil Travers | Part of the magical Harry Potter universe |
| Gentleman Jack | Frances Carrigan | Period drama centered on Anne Lister’s life |
| Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles | Role undisclosed | Sci-fi series continuation of the Terminator franchise |
| Trust Me | Captain Sutherland | Medical drama series |
Waterloo Road sees Riddell as Pete, and his role of Walter Nunn in Frankie shows a different facet of his skilled acting. Additionally, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles featured Riddell, verifying his capacity to engage with science fiction narratives. His portrayal of historical figure James I further exemplifies Riddell’s ability to authentically embody characters from vastly different eras and settings.
Personal Life
Derek Riddell is known to lead a private family life alongside his long-term partner, actress Frances Carrigan. They share a set of twins, bringing a personal joy that complements his professional achievements.
Off-Screen Endeavors
His life off the camera involves shared responsibilities and experiences with Frances Carrigan and their twins, Eve and Felix. Riddell’s family dynamic is often kept out of the public eye, reflecting his choice for discretion in his personal affairs. The family’s activities and personal milestones are cherished privately, and they collectively appreciate the arts and cultural experiences, with Riddell mentioning the enjoyment of sharing his work with his children when appropriate.