Kris Marshall

Biography

Kris Marshall, born Kristopher Marshall on April 1, 1973, in Bath, Somerset, England, is a widely recognized English actor. He has enjoyed a diverse and successful career across television, film, and stage, becoming a familiar face to audiences with his distinctive comedic timing and engaging performances.

Marshall's early life involved a fair amount of travel due to his father's career as a Royal Air Force navigator, with the family residing in places like Hong Kong and Canada. Upon returning to England, he attended Wells Cathedral School. After his initial academic struggles, he enrolled at the Redroofs Theatre School in Maidenhead, Berkshire, to pursue his acting aspirations.

His breakthrough role came in 2000, when he landed the part of Nick Harper, the often clueless son, in the popular BBC sitcom My Family. This role brought him widespread recognition and showcased his comedic talent. In 2003, he further solidified his place in the public eye with his memorable performance as Colin Frissell, an Englishman seeking love in America, in the romantic comedy film Love Actually. He also appeared in the film The Merchant of Venice (2004) as Gratiano.

Marshall continued to build a strong television presence, notably playing DS Luke Stone in the police drama Murder City (2004–2006). From 2014 to 2017, he took on the lead role of Detective Inspector Humphrey Goodman in the popular BBC crime drama Death in Paradise, which saw him solving mysteries on a fictional Caribbean island. He later reprised this role in the spin-off series Beyond Paradise, which premiered in 2023 and for which he also serves as an executive producer.

Beyond these prominent roles, Marshall's filmography includes appearances in movies such as Death at a Funeral (2007) and Easy Virtue (2008). He has also performed in various stage productions, including Glengarry Glen Ross and Ugly Lies the Bone.

Married to Hannah Dodkins since 2012, Marshall is a father of two children. He has often spoken about the importance of family, citing it as a reason for his departure from Death in Paradise. Kris Marshall continues to be a prominent figure in British entertainment, known for his versatility and engaging performances.