Matthew Macfadyen: Age and Background
Matthew Macfadyen is an English actor born on 17 October 1974, making him 49 years old as of 2025. He is widely known for roles such as Tom Quinn in the television series Spooks and Mr. Darcy in the 2005 film Pride & Prejudice. This profile provides verified details about his birthdate, age, key career milestones, and public context, using authoritative sources and clearly defined attribute tables for long-term reference.
Key Biographical Attributes
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Matthew Macfadyen | Public record |
| Date of Birth | 17 October 1974 | Reliable biography |
| Place of Birth | Great Britain | Public record |
| Age as of 2025 | 49 years old | Calculated from birthdate |
| Primary Nationality | British | Public record |
Career Overview and Context
Macfadyen’s career spans stage, film, and television. His breakout television role came with Spooks (2002–2004), where he played counterterrorism officer Tom Quinn. This was followed by globally recognized film roles including Mr. Darcy in Pride & Prejudice (2005) and Riley in Children of Men (2006). Later work includes leading performances in the HBO series Succession as Tom Wambsgans and the film Anna Karenina (2012).
Notable Works and Role Highlights
- Spooks (2002–2004) — Tom Quinn
- Pride & Prejudice (2005) — Mr. Darcy
- Children of Men (206) — Riley
- Succession (2018–2023) — Tom Wambsgans
- Anna Karenina (2012) — Count Vronsky
Public Perception and Age-Related Context
Because Macfadyen was born in 1974, he is commonly referred to as being in his late 40s during the mid-2020s. His career longevity is frequently noted by critics and audiences, with consistent performances across decades. Understanding his age and career stage helps contextualize his choices in both dramatic and ensemble roles, particularly in prestige television where he has become a familiar presence.
Comparative Career Timeline
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 2002–2004 | Spooks series run | Established him as a leading television actor |
| 2005 | Pride & Prejudice release | Brought international recognition |
| 2018–2023 | Succession main role | Expanded his profile to prestige drama audiences |
| 2024–2025 | Continued screen and stage work | Demonstrates sustained career longevity |
Methodology and Source Transparency
This profile relies on publicly available biographical records, reputable entertainment databases, and consistent media references. Age is calculated from the confirmed date of birth, and notable works are cross-referenced with official credits and syndication records. Where estimates exist, the most authoritative sources are prioritized to maintain accuracy and transparency for long-term reference.
Reliable Sources and Further Reading
Details in this profile are drawn from authoritative biographies, studio press materials, and major credit databases. Readers seeking deeper verification can consult primary entertainment archives and official industry listings for ongoing confirmation of dates and credits.