Noted Scottish actor and comedian, born in 1953 in Largs, Scotland, to a family with an older brother and a twin sister. He made his film debut in the 1982 horror feature "The Sender", playing a patient. His subsequent film appearances include "The Bounty" (1984) alongside Mel Gibson and Anthony Hopkins, "Henry V" (1989),and "A Midwinter's Tale" (1995),both directed by Kenneth Branagh, his friend and frequent collaborator, whom he met at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in 1979.
The actor has also appeared in the popular BBC series "Stella Street" (1997),playing a variety of middle-aged actors alongside Phil Cornwell. One of his most notable performances is the role of Dr. Prunesquallor in the BBC's lavish production of Mervyn Peake's novels "Titus Groan" and "Gormenghast" (2000).
In addition to his film and television work, the actor has had a successful career on stage, appearing in numerous productions and performing one-man shows. His impressive improvisational skills earned him a spot as the first regular contestant on the popular comedy show "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" (1988),where he showcased his extensive literary knowledge.
The actor has also made appearances on BBC Radio 4, including the show "Dead Man Talking", where he played various "dead" characters, including J. Robert Oppenheimer and Michelangelo.
