20 Up-and-Coming Scottish Actors To Watch In 2025
Keep your eye on these 20 Scottish actors! Our 2025 watchlist highlights the performers you'll be hearing a lot more from in the coming years. Don't miss out.
Feb 17, 2025360 Shares22.4K Views
Scotland has given the world some of the most talented actors in film, television, and theatre. From legendary performers who shaped the industry to modern stars dominating Hollywood, Scottish actorshave consistently delivered outstanding performances. Their versatility, charisma, and dedication to their craft have earned them international acclaim.
This article highlights the most iconic Scottishactors, both past and present, showcasing their most memorable roles and contributions to the world of entertainment.
1. Ncuti Gatwa
Ncuti Gatwa’s breakthrough role as Eric Effiong in Netflix’s Sex Education(2019-2023) turned him into one of the most talked-about young actors of his generation. His portrayal of Eric, a bold, joyful, and unapologetically himself character, earned widespread praise and multiple awards, including a BAFTA Scotland Award for Best Actor.
Gatwa brought emotional depth and comedic brilliance to the role, making Eric one of the most beloved characters in the series. In 2022, Gatwa made history when he was cast as the Fifteenth Doctor in Doctor Who, becoming the first Black actor to take on the iconic role in a lead capacity.
2. Shirley Henderson
Shirley Henderson, born in Forres, Moray, is known for her distinctive voice and ability to play deeply emotional roles. She gained widespread recognition as Moaning Myrtle in the Harry Potter films, bringing the ghostly character to life with a mix of humor and sadness.
Henderson’s career spans across film, television, and theater. She starred in Bridget Jones’s Diary as Jude, one of Bridget’s best friends, and played key roles in Trainspotting, T2 Trainspotting, and Stan & Ollie. She also won critical acclaim for her performance in Happy Valley and the miniseries The Nest. With her unique presence and exceptional acting skills, Henderson remains a standout talent in the industry.
3. Kevin McKidd
Born in Elgin, Moray, Kevin McKidd first gained fame for his role as Tommy in Trainspotting, where he played a well-meaning but ultimately tragic character. He later starred in the historical drama Rome, portraying the soldier Lucius Vorenus, a role that showcased his ability to play strong yet conflicted characters.
McKidd is best known internationally for his long-running role as Dr. Owen Hunt in Grey’s Anatomy, where he has been a series regular since 2008. His work on the show has earned him critical praise and a dedicated fan following. Outside of television, he has lent his voice to the animated film Brave, voicing the warrior Lord MacGuffin, and has worked in video games, including the Call of Duty franchise.
4. Dougray Scott
Dougray Scott, born in Glenrothes, Fife, has had a diverse career in both Hollywood and British cinema. He first gained recognition for his role in Ever After, starring alongside Drew Barrymore. Living in a region known as fife with beautiful things to dohas clearly influenced his appreciation for art and culture, which shines through in his varied performances.
Scott later starred as the villain in Mission: Impossible 2, a role that nearly led him to play Wolverine in X-Men, but scheduling conflicts forced him to step away from the opportunity. Scott has had a steady career in film and television, appearing in Desperate Housewives, Batwoman, Snatch, and Hitman. His ability to play both heroes and villains has made him a reliable and respected actor in the industry.
5. Sam Heughan
Sam Heughan shot to fame for his portrayal of Jamie Fraser in the historical drama Outlander. His role as the brave and romantic Scottish warrior won him a massive global fanbase and several award nominations. Heughan’s performance is praised for bringing authenticity and emotional depth to the beloved character from Diana Gabaldon’s book series.
Beyond Outlander, Heughan has appeared in films such as The Spy Who Dumped Me and Bloodshot, showing his versatility as an action star. He is also known for his work in Scottish heritage projects, co-hosting Men in Kilts, a traveldocumentary celebrating Scotland’s history and culture.
6. Tilda Swinton
An Academy Award-winning actress, Tilda Swinton is known for her unique presence and transformative roles. From the ethereal Orlando to the chilling corporate villain in Michael Clayton (which won her an Oscar), Swinton continuously reinvents herself.
She played the Ancient One in Doctor Strange and appeared in critically acclaimed films such as We Need to Talk About Kevin, The Grand Budapest Hotel, and Suspiria.
7. Ewen Bremner
Best known for playing Spud in Trainspotting and its sequel T2 Trainspotting, Ewen Bremner is a highly respected character actor. His portrayal of the well-meaning but troubled heroin addict in Trainspotting was both heartbreaking and comedic, making him one of the most memorable characters in the film.
Bremner has since appeared in a wide range of films, including Black Hawk Down, Snowpiercer, Wonder Woman, and Pearl Harbor. He has a knack for playing eccentric and unpredictable characters, making each of his performances unique. His work in independent films and major blockbusters has solidified him as one of Scotland’s finest actors.
8. Henry Ian Cusick
Born in Peru to a Scottish father, Henry Ian Cusick was raised in Scotland and became known for his role as Desmond Hume in the hit TV series Lost. His performance as the mysterious and tragic Desmond, trapped in a time loop, earned him critical acclaim and a Primetime Emmy nomination.
Cusick has since starred in a variety of television shows, including The 100, where he played Marcus Kane, and MacGyver, where he portrayed Russ Taylor. He has also appeared in films such as The Gospel of John and Hitman. His ability to bring depth to morally complex characters has made him a sought-after actor in the industry.
9. Ewan McGregor
Ewan McGregor shot to fame in Danny Boyle’s Trainspotting (1996), delivering an electrifying performance as Mark Renton. He went on to star as Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace and its sequels, making him a household name worldwide.
McGregor’s versatility shines in films like Moulin Rouge!, Big Fish, Doctor Sleep, and Halston. Whether playing action heroes, romantic leads, or complex dramatic characters, McGregor consistently delivers compelling performances.
10. Peter Capaldi
Born in Glasgow, Peter Capaldi is a multi-talented actor, writer, and director. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Malcolm Tucker, the sharp-tongued political spin doctor in the British satire The Thick of It. His performance was so iconic that it led to a film adaptation, In the Loop, which earned him international acclaim.
Capaldi’s biggest mainstream success came when he was cast as the Twelfth Doctor in Doctor Who. His version of the Doctor was darker, more intense, and deeply philosophical, making him a fan favorite. Outside of Doctor Who, Capaldi has had an extensive career in film and television, appearing in Paddington, World War Z, and The Suicide Squad. He also won an Academy Award for his short film Franz Kafka’s It’s a Wonderful Life.
11. Alan Cumming
Alan Cumming, from Perth, is a very talented actor who works in movies, TV, and plays. He's won big awards for his acting on stage and has been nominated for Emmys and Golden Globes for his TV work in "The Good Wife." He's also been in lots of famous movies like "GoldenEye," "X2," "Get Carter," and "Eyes Wide Shut."
12. Richard Madden
Richard Madden became a household name as Robb Stark in Game of Thrones(2011-2013), delivering a powerful performance that launched his career. He gained further recognition in Bodyguard (2018), winning a Golden Globe for his gripping portrayal of a war veteran-turned-protector.
Madden’s Hollywood career took off with Rocketman (2019), where he played Elton John’s manager, and Eternals (2021), marking his entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With ongoing speculation about him becoming the next James Bond, Madden remains one of Scotland’s top leading men.
13. Karen Gillan
Karen Gillan rose to fame as Amy Pond in Doctor Who (2010–2013) before breaking into Hollywood. She gained global recognition as Nebula in Guardians of the Galaxy (2014–present), bringing depth to the complex character.
Beyond Marvel, she showcased her action and comedic skills in Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) and directed The Party’s Just Beginning (2018), proving her versatility in the industry.
14. Martin Compston
Martin Compston began his acting career with a critically acclaimed performance in Sweet Sixteen (2002), a gritty drama directed by Ken Loach that showcased his natural talent. However, it was his role as Steve Arnott in the highly popular BBC crime drama Line of Duty (2012–2021) that made him a household name.
Playing an anti-corruption officer investigating police misconduct, Compston delivered a gripping performance that kept audiences on the edge of their seats for six seasons. Outside of Line of Duty, Compston has proven his versatility in projects like The Nest (2020), where he played a wealthy businessman entangled in a morally complex surrogacy arrangement, and Mary Queen of Scots (2018), where he starred alongside Margot Robbie and Saoirse Ronan.
15. Kate Dickie
Kate Dickie is known for her intense and often unsettling performances, making her one of the most compelling actors in independent and genre films. She gained international recognition for her role as Lysa Arryn in Game of Thrones (2011–2014), portraying the unstable and manipulative noblewoman with chilling effectiveness.
Dickie has built a strong career in psychological thrillers and horror films, excelling in roles that require deep emotional complexity. Her work in The Witch (2015), where she played a deeply religious mother descending into paranoia and grief, was widely praised.
16. Rose Leslie
Born in Aberdeen and raised at Lickleyhead Castle, Rose Leslie grew up in a family with deep Scottish heritage. Her father is the Chieftain of Clan Leslie, and she spent much of her childhood in a historic setting. Leslie first gained international fame as Ygritte in Game of Thrones, where her performance as the fiery Wildling warrior was widely praised. She also starred in Downton Abbey, playing Gwen Dawson, a housemaid striving for a better future.
Beyond television, Leslie has had an impressive stage career, performing at London’s prestigious Globe Theatre in productions such as Bedlam. She later transitioned into film and other TV projects, including The Good Fight and The Time Traveler’s Wife.
17. James McAvoy
Glasgow-born James McAvoy has built a career spanning blockbuster hits and critically acclaimed dramas. He first gained recognition in Shameless before landing the role of Mr. Tumnus in The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. However, it was his powerful performance in The Last King of Scotland, where he played a young Scottish doctor caught in the brutal regime of Idi Amin, that established him as a serious actor.
McAvoy became a global star as the young Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men franchise, portraying the iconic character with depth and emotional complexity. His versatility is evident in roles such as the psychologically intense thriller Split, where he played multiple personalities, and the fantasy drama His Dark Materials, where he took on the role of Lord Asriel.
18. Robbie Coltrane
Robbie Coltrane’s deep voice, towering presence, and remarkable talent made him one of Scotland’s most beloved actors. He is best known for playing Rubeus Hagrid, the warm-hearted half-giant in the Harry Potter series, a role that endeared him to audiences worldwide. Before stepping into the magical world of Hogwarts, Coltrane was already a well-respected actor, comedian, and writer.
He starred in the critically acclaimed crime drama Cracker, where he played Dr. Eddie “Fitz” Fitzgerald, a brilliant but troubled forensic psychologist. His work in James Bond films as the Russian mafia boss Valentin Zukovsky in GoldenEye and The World Is Not Enough added to his reputation as a versatile performer.
19. David Tennant
Born in Bathgate, just outside Edinburgh, David Tennant always knew he wanted to be an actor. He fulfilled that dream when he became the Tenth Doctor in Doctor Who, a role that earned him critical acclaim and a massive global fanbase. Tennant’s take on the Doctor was emotional, energetic, and deeply human, making him one of the most beloved actors in the show's history.
His acting range goes far beyond Doctor Who. He starred in the crime drama Broadchurch, delivering a gripping performance as Detective Alec Hardy.. Tennant has also appeared in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire as the sinister Barty Crouch Jr. and played a key role in the historical drama Mary Queen of Scots. Beyond his on-screen success, Tennant has strong ties to the theatre, often performing in Edinburgh, where he has taken on classic roles in Shakespearean productions and other stage performances.
20. Kelly Macdonald
Glasgow-born Kelly Macdonald had an unusual start to her acting career. While working as a barmaid, she saw a flyer for auditions and decided to try her luck. That decision changed her life when she was cast as Diane in Trainspotting, opposite Ewan McGregor. The film became a cultural phenomenon, and Macdonald’s performance was widely praised.
She went on to star in critically acclaimed films such as No Country for Old Men, Gosford Park, and Nanny McPhee. Her television work includes the crime drama Line of Duty, where she played DCI Joanne Davidson, and the HBO series Boardwalk Empire, in which she portrayed Margaret Thompson, a role that earned her a Primetime Emmy nomination. Known for taking on diverse roles across film and television, she has worked in locations around the world; after all, celebrities love to travel, and Macdonald’s career has taken her from Hollywood to some of the UK’s most iconic filming destinations.
FAQs
Who Is Richest Scottish Actor?
- Gerard Butler - $80 million. Paisley born actor Gerard Butler is best known for his role in 300 and has a reported net worth of $80 million. ...
- Craig Ferguson - $30 million. ...
- Ewan McGregor - $25 million. ...
- James McAvoy - $20 million.
How Many Scottish Actors Have Won An Oscar?
Academy Awards: 16 Scots who have won or been nominated for an Oscar - from Sean Connery to Peter Capaldi.
Who Is The Most Famous Scottish Man?
The most famous Scottish person is often considered to be William Wallace, a 13th-century knight who became a central figure in Scotland's struggle for independence from England.
What Role Do Scottish Actors Play In Promoting Their Culture?
Scottish actors often serve as ambassadors for their country, showcasing Scottish cultureand traditions to global audiences. They help to promote Scottish identity and inspire future generations of performers.
Final Words
Scottish actors have had a huge influence on the entertainment industry, enticing audiences with their skill, adaptability, and distinct fusion of heart, humor, and grit. Scottish actors continue to influence theater and cinema, from classics like Sean Connery to modern-day celebrities like James McAvoy and Karen Gillan.
They inspire future generations and promote Scottish identity as cultural ambassadors, so their efforts go beyond simple amusement. Acting in Scotland has a bright future since there is a large pool of up-and-coming talent eager to perform on stage and screen.
Jump to
1. Ncuti Gatwa
2. Shirley Henderson
3. Kevin McKidd
4. Dougray Scott
5. Sam Heughan
6. Tilda Swinton
7. Ewen Bremner
8. Henry Ian Cusick
9. Ewan McGregor
10. Peter Capaldi
11. Alan Cumming
13. Karen Gillan
14. Martin Compston
15. Kate Dickie
16. Rose Leslie
17. James McAvoy
18. Robbie Coltrane
19. David Tennant
20. Kelly Macdonald
FAQs
Final Words
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