Theo James: The Basics
Theodore Peter James Kinnaird Taptiklis, known professionally as Theo James, is an English actor. Theo James was born in High Wycombe on 16 December 1984. He gained recognition for playing Tobias Eaton in The Divergent Series film trilogy. Theo is married to Irish actress Ruth Kearney. The two met at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. They have two children. The family divide their time between Venice Beach, California and North London.
Outside his acting career Theo James was the singer and guitarist of the London-based band Shere Khan, which disbanded in 2012. He is 1.83 metres in height.
Theo James: Beyond Divergent
Since captivating audiences with his role as Tobias "Four" Eaton in the Divergent series, Theo James has continued to leave his mark on both the big and small screens. With a blend of charisma, talent, and versatility, Theo James has taken on a diverse array of roles, showcasing his range as an actor and solidifying his status as a rising star in Hollywood.
Following the success of the Divergent series, Theo James ventured into various film projects, each allowing him to explore different genres and characters. One notable post-Divergent role was in the 2016 science fiction film "Allegiant," where he reprised his role as Four. Although the film received mixed reviews, James's portrayal remained a standout, reaffirming his ability to command the screen.
Steering away from the young adult genre, Theo James delved into historical drama with the 2016 film "The Secret Scripture." In this adaptation of Sebastian Barry's novel, he starred alongside Rooney Mara and Vanessa Redgrave, portraying Father Gaunt. His performance added depth to the character, earning praise from critics for his nuanced portrayal.
Continuing his exploration of diverse genres, Theo James shifted gears once again in the 2017 action thriller "Underworld: Blood Wars." Joining the popular franchise, he portrayed David, a pivotal character caught in the midst of a supernatural war. Despite the film's mixed reception, Theo James's action-packed performance garnered attention, showcasing his ability to excel in high-octane roles.
In 2018, Theo James demonstrated his versatility by starring in the crime drama "Backstabbing for Beginners." Based on a true story, the film follows the unraveling of a corruption scandal within the United Nations. Theo James took on the role of Michael Sullivan, a determined diplomat entangled in a web of deceit. His compelling portrayal anchored the film, drawing viewers into the complex narrative.
Venturing into the realm of television, Theo James made a memorable impression with his lead role in the British series "Sanditon." Adapted from Jane Austen's unfinished novel, the series follows the romantic entanglements and societal dynamics in the seaside town of Sanditon. Theo James portrayed the enigmatic Sidney Parker, captivating audiences with his brooding charm and undeniable chemistry with his co-star.
Currently, Theo James stars in the highly anticipated drama series "Windward Spirits." Set against the backdrop of a small coastal town, the series follows the interconnected lives of its residents as they navigate love, loss, and redemption. James portrays Daniel, a troubled artist grappling with personal demons while seeking solace in his craft. With "Windward Spirits," Theo James continues to captivate audiences with his magnetic presence and nuanced performances.
In addition to his on-screen endeavors, Theo James has also made his mark in the world of fashion and fragrance. As the face of Hugo Boss's "The Scent" fragrance line, he has become synonymous with sophistication and style, further solidifying his status as a modern-day leading man.
Theo James produced and appeared in the 2020 science fiction film Archive, playing a robotics scientist working on a secret project involving building a prototype based on his dead wife. He stars in the romance series The Time Traveler's Wife, which premiered in May 2022. The Hollywood Reporter's Angie Han described Theo James's portrayal of the titular time traveler "dashing and a little sardonic" and highlighted his and co-star Rose Leslie's "inability to generate any real sparks between them". Theo James plays a series regular role in the second season of the satire series The White Lotus.
In 2024, he starred as Edward "Eddie" Horniman, Duke of Halstead, alongside Kaya Scodelario, Daniel Ings, and Ray Winstone, in the Guy Ritchie television series The Gentlemen, released on Netflix.
Theo James: Did you know?
Theo James is multilingual and can speak several languages fluently. He is proficient in Greek, as his father is of Greek descent. Additionally, he speaks French and German, which he learned while living in those respective countries during his childhood.
Being an actor in an action movie, there's no shame in having a stunt double perform the dangerous acts. But not for Theo James, who prefers to do his stunts.
Theo James is a man of many talents. Unbeknownst to many, he used to be the lead singer and guitarist in the band Shere Khan. In addition to guitar and singing, he also plays the harmonica and the piano.
Prior to his pursuit as an actor, Theo James was a Philosophy major at Nottingham University. The degree has been put to use in his acting career, as James has indicated that he likes to connect to his characters on a more meaningful and intimate level.
With the number of diverse roles Theo James has had to play, it's no surprise that he's mastered accents ranging from Southern Irish to Scottish to sounding like a true New Yorker.
Before becoming a star actor, Theo James' career included being a bartender, lifeguard, and employee for the National Health Services, where he cleaned the houses of the recently deceased. Not everything is so glamorous before stepping into Hollywood.
If you're ever trying to social media stalk Theo James, you won't find him anywhere. Unlike most celebrities, he doesn't have Instagram, Twitter, or other popular platforms. Despite being in the public eye, Theo James enjoys living a private life.