5 Roles Matthew Macfadyen Nailed After His Iconic Mr. Darcy Portrayal

One of Britain's most successful actors, Matthew MacFadyen has become a household name in both cinema and television. His attention to detail, the emotional depth he brings to each of his characters, and the dedication with which he works make him a perfect choice for any movie or TV show.

While he began his career working mostly in period dramas and adaptations of classic literature, he has proven not once but many times that his range is so much greater. We all love him for his iconic role as Mr. Darcy in the 2005 movie Pride and Prejudice, but since then he has starred in many brilliant projects.

Here are 5 roles of Matthew MacFadyen that prove his talent as an actor.

1. Succession ( 2018-2023)

One of his most recent and successful roles is that of Tom Wambsgans in the iconic series Succession. His character, despite being embarrassed by so many for most of the show, shocked everyone in the series finale when he was elevated to CEO of the newly acquired Waystar Royco instead of the Roy children. But the twist, and the way the character handled it, only highlighted MacFadyen's brilliance in bringing depth to his character.

Tom's gradual rise, underlined by his complex relationships and darkly comedic moments, became central to the show's success. MacFadyen's performance, especially in the tense, high-stakes scenes, will likely be remembered as one of the most defining roles of his career.

2. Death At A Funeral (2007)

The 18 year-old movie called Death at a Funeral tells the chaotic story of a family gathered to mourn the death of their patriarch. MacFadyen's portrayal of Daniel, the well-meaning but frazzled son, was an early indication of his comedic timing and ability to navigate both dark humor and emotional depth.

While the film received mixed reviews upon its release, MacFadyen's performance was still noted as a standout, and it eventually marked his departure from the usual period roles and made everyone realize that he had so much more to offer audiences.

3. Stonehouse (2023)

In the comparatively recent miniseries Stonehouse, MacFadyen took on the real-life story of British politician John Stonehouse, who infamously faked his own death in 1974. The role allowed the actor to blend humor and absurdity with the seriousness of his character's criminal shenanigans. Channeling elements from his role in Succession, MacFadyen's portrayal of Stonehouse captures the man's flaws in every little detail.

“Highly recommend it! I watched Stonehouse over the weekend on Britbox. It’s really good and Mathew Macfadyen is phenomenal in it. I didn’t know the story of the Labour MP that faked his own death. I even downloaded a book by the real MP’s daughter to read after watching it,” Redditor Corneliusdenise said.

4. Ripper Street (2012 - 2016)

Ripper Street is a British hidden gem that every fan of the actor must see. He stars as Detective Inspector Edmund Reid, who tries to maintain order in a city haunted by its violent past, a grim aftermath of the Jack the Ripper murders.

MacFadyen brings sensitivity to Reid, embodying a man struggling to balance his duty with the moral complexities of a city in turmoil. The series may not have achieved mainstream success, but MacFadyen's work in it is a showcase for his ability to bring even the darkest stuff to life.

5. Any Human Heart (2010)

Many of the actor's fans still consider this 15-year-old series to be the actor's best project. Based on the novel by William Boyd, Any Human Heart spans the life of Logan Mountstuart, a writer who experiences the highs and lows of a rich existence.

MacFadyen plays the middle-aged Logan, transitioning from youthful ambition to the melancholy of later years. His portrayal of Logan's journey through love, loss, and personal discovery has been praised for its emotional depth in portraying the complexities of aging and self-identity.