Ben Lloyd-Hughes
A detailed biography of British actor Ben Lloyd-Hughes (born 1988) — covering his early life, training, major screen roles, family, and professional legacy.
Introduction
Ben Lloyd-Hughes is a British actor known for his versatility, range across film and television, and a growing presence in period drama and contemporary series. Born on April 14, 1988 in London, he has built a career that spans everything from teen dramas to literary adaptations to high-produced television.
In what follows, we’ll explore his background, training, major roles, the themes of his work, and what makes his path interesting in the landscape of British actors today.
Early Life and Family
Ben Lloyd-Hughes was born Benedict Lloyd-Hughes on April 14, 1988, in Westminster, London, England. His parents are Lucy Appleby and Timothy Lloyd-Hughes.
He comes from a creative and media-influenced family. His older brother, Henry Lloyd-Hughes, is also an actor. Another sibling or relative, Theo Lloyd-Hughes, works in the music/record executive side of media.
Ben attended St. Paul’s School, London, for his earlier education. He later trained in acting at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, graduating in 2011.
It was during or just after his training that his professional work began to pick up.
Career Beginnings & Early Roles
Ben’s early screen appearances started mid-2000s. One of his first credited TV roles was in Love Soup (2005). He then had guest spots in shows like Genie in the House, A Touch of Frost, and Casualty.
In 2007, he gained more visibility through his appearance in Skins, playing the character Josh Stock.
His early film work includes roles in Tormented (2009) as “Jez,” and The First Days of Spring (2009).
In 2010, he appeared alongside his brother Henry in the satirical mockumentary Miliband of Brothers.
Through these diverse early roles, Ben gained experience across genres and formats, which paved the way to larger projects.
Breakthrough & Notable Roles
Film Highlights
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Divergent (2014) — He played Will in this sci-fi / dystopian adaptation, which exposed him to a broader international audience.
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The Divergent Series: Insurgent (2015) — He reprised the role of Will.
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Me Before You (2016) — He appeared as Rupert Collins.
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Breathe (2017) — He played Dr. Don McQueen.
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Malevolent (2018) — He appeared in this horror / thriller film.
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The King’s Daughter (2022) — He played Jean-Michel Lintillac.
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The Stranger in Our Bed (2022) — He starred in this romantic/thriller film.
These film roles have ranged from genre blockbusters to romantic dramas and thrillers, demonstrating his flexibility.
Television & Ongoing Work
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War & Peace (2016) — He played Tsar Alexander in this BBC miniseries.
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Industry (2020 onwards) — He takes on the role of Greg in this contemporary drama about the world of finance.
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Sanditon (2022–2023) — He joined as a main cast member, playing Alexander Colbourne from season 2 onward.
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The Crown (Seasons 5 & 6) — He portrayed Mark Bolland, a spin doctor in the royal household.
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The Ipcress File (2022) — He had a role in this mini-series.
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This England (2022) — He appeared as Ben Gascoigne.
These TV roles have allowed him to build a recognizable presence across both British and international audiences.
Style & Strengths
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Versatility & Range: Ben seamlessly moves between period dramas, contemporary settings, action/sci-fi, romantic drama, and thrillers.
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Supporting & Character Depth: He often plays secondary or ensemble roles, but brings emotional weight and depth to those characters.
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Professional Training: His education at Guildhall gives him classical grounding.
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Collaboration & Ensemble: His participation in ensemble casts, especially in British dramas and adapted works, suggests strength in working within large casts while holding one’s ground.
Personal Life & Public Profile
Ben Lloyd-Hughes is married to actress Emily Berrington. The two met during drama school.
He tends to keep personal life relatively private. His familial ties (especially his brother Henry) sometimes intersect with his work; for example, they appeared together in Miliband of Brothers.
He is also related by extended family to Fred Macpherson, a musician, who is his cousin.
In interviews, Ben has spoken of his path being steady rather than meteoric, solidifying his body of work over time rather than a single breakout role.
Legacy & Future Directions
Ben Lloyd-Hughes is still mid-career, but his steady accumulation of varied roles suggests a trajectory toward becoming a dependable character actor in both British and international productions. His capacity to engage in period and contemporary stories positions him well for cross-market appeal.
If he continues to accept diverse roles — including possibly leading ones — and maintain his involvement in both film and prestige television, his profile is likely to keep rising.