James Lance

Biography

James Frederick Grenville Lance is an English actor born on September 29, 1974, in Southampton, England. Known for his versatility, he has built a substantial career across British television comedy and drama, as well as in film.

Early Life and Training

Lance grew up in Westbury-sub-Mendip, Somerset, and began his performance career at an early age. He trained at the renowned Sylvia Young Theatre School, which set the stage for his decades-long acting career. His first professional work dates back to 1988 with an appearance in two Persil Liquid commercials.

Career Highlights

Lance has made a name for himself as a familiar face in many successful British television shows, particularly in the comedy genre. His comedy appearances include:

I'm Alan Partridge (1997)

Spaced (1999)

Absolutely Fabulous (1992)

The Book Group (2002–2003)

No Heroics (2008)

Toast of London (2013)

He has also taken on significant roles in drama, appearing in series like Teachers, Being Human, Midsomer Murders, and the Black Mirror episode "The Waldo Moment."

Breakthrough as Trent Crimm

In recent years, Lance achieved global recognition for his recurring role as Trent Crimm, the initially cynical but ultimately thoughtful journalist from The Independent newspaper in the British-American comedy series Ted Lasso. This role earned him a nomination for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series in 2022.

Filmography

His film credits demonstrate his range, featuring in:

Late Night Shopping (2001)

Marie Antoinette (2006)

Bronson (2008)

Bel Ami (2012)

The Bookshop (2017)

More recently, he has starred in the new BBC adaptation of The Famous Five as Uncle Quentin.

Personal Life

James Lance is married to television presenter Kate Quilton, with whom he has one son.