Ben Hardy, the accomplished English actor known for his roles in “EastEnders,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” and “X-Men: Apocalypse,” had an unconventional journey into the world of acting. Here’s a closer look at his path to stardom and his impressive career.
Early Life and Aspirations
Born on January 2, 1991, in Bournemouth, Dorset, England, as Ben Jones, the actor’s journey into the acting realm was not a lifelong dream. In fact, Hardy never showed a significant interest in acting until he reached his early teens. His initial aspiration was to become a sports personality, a far cry from the world of entertainment.
Education and Training
Ben Hardy’s journey into acting took a pivotal turn when he decided to pursue a formal education in the field. He graduated from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, where he honed his acting skills and developed a passion for the craft. His dedication and talent during his training set the stage for his future success in the industry.
Career Beginnings
In 2012, Ben Hardy got his first significant break in acting when he starred as Arthur Wellesley in the David Hare play “The Judas Kiss,” a role that showcased his emerging talent. The production garnered rave reviews and initially had a limited run at the Hampstead Theatre before transferring to the prestigious West End’s Duke of York’s Theatre in January 2013. Notably, Hardy’s role in “The Judas Kiss” required him to perform full frontal nudity, a challenge he later described as “incredibly nerve-racking.”
EastEnders and Rising Stardom
In April 2013, Ben Hardy’s career reached a pivotal moment when it was announced that he would join the cast of the long-running BBC soap opera “EastEnders.” He stepped into the role of Peter Beale, a character with a rich history on the show. Hardy’s portrayal resonated with audiences, and he quickly became a series regular, appearing in 189 episodes from 2013 to 2015.
Film Career Takes Flight
Hardy’s transition from television to film was seamless, and he made his impressive film debut in Bryan Singer’s “X-Men: Apocalypse” in 2016. In the movie, he played the winged mutant Archangel, showcasing his versatility as an actor in the superhero genre.
His career continued to soar when he portrayed Queen drummer Roger Taylor in the biographical film “Bohemian Rhapsody” in 2018. This role earned him a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture at the 25th Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Continued Success
Ben Hardy’s success extended beyond the big screen, with notable roles in various projects, including the Netflix action thriller “6 Underground” and the BBC adaptation of the Wilkie Collins novel “The Woman in White.” He continued to showcase his range and talent in the romantic film “The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight” and the HBO Max and BBC series “The Girl Before.”
As of now, Ben Hardy’s career is marked by his impressive filmography and his ability to seamlessly transition between television, film, and even the stage. His journey from aspiring sports personality to accomplished actor is a testament to his dedication and passion for the craft. While he may not be part of the Marvel Universe, his diverse roles and memorable performances have solidified his place in the entertainment industry.