Andrew Scott, known for his electrifying performances and magnetic screen presence, has consistently stolen the spotlight in both film and television. Whether you know him as the sinister Moriarty from Sherlock or the charming priest in Fleabag, Scott’s versatile acting chops have made him a favorite among audiences seeking depth and complexity in their screen heroes. His ability to pivot from dark, intense roles to light-hearted characters showcases his broad appeal and skill in bringing diverse personas to life, making his work a must-watch for any entertainment lover. Our editors have provided a binge-worthy summary of Scott’s work for your viewing pleasure.
Movies
1. “Pride”
Pride (2014) – In the 2014 film Pride, Andrew Scott delivers a compelling performance as Gethin Roberts, a quiet and reflective gay bookshop owner. The film, set during the UK miners’ strike of 1984-85, tells the uplifting true story of Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners, which formed an unlikely alliance with a small Welsh mining community. Scott’s portrayal of Gethin is profoundly moving, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of the LGBT community during a tumultuous time.
2. Spectre (2015)
In the James Bond film Spectre, Andrew Scott steps into the sophisticated world of espionage as Max Denbigh, also known as ‘C.’ Playing the role of the head of the Joint Intelligence Service, which includes MI5 and MI6, Scott’s character is a bureaucrat with a sharp, modern edge, pushing for global surveillance over traditional espionage tactics. His performance is chillingly effective, portraying a man whose smooth demeanor and polished exterior belie his more profound, duplicitous intentions.
3. 1917 (2019)
In the critically acclaimed film 1917, directed by Sam Mendes, Andrew Scott delivers a memorable performance as Lieutenant Leslie. Although his screen time is brief, Scott’s portrayal of the weary, sardonic officer is impactful, leaving a lasting impression. Set against the backdrop of World War I, his character provides the two young soldiers with crucial information and supplies. Still, it does so with a palpable sense of cynicism and exhaustion that vividly conveys the brutal realities of trench warfare.
4. All of Us Strangers (2023)
In the hauntingly beautiful film All of Us Strangers, Andrew Scott delivers a nuanced portrayal of Adam, a lonely screenwriter drawn back to his childhood home, where he embarks on an intimate relationship with his enigmatic downstairs neighbor. Directed by Andrew Haigh and based on Taichi Yamada’s novel “Strangers,” the film explores themes of isolation, memory, and the subtle ways individuals seek connection and healing from past traumas.
5. Locke (2013)
In the film Locke, directed by Steven Knight, Andrew Scott plays a pivotal supporting role as Donal, an anxious construction foreman. Although Scott’s character never appears on screen, his voice performance over the phone is integral to the narrative. The film unfolds in real-time, predominantly featuring Tom Hardy’s character, Ivan Locke, as he drives through the night, making several life-altering phone calls. Scott’s character, Donal, is one of the recipients of these calls, tasked with preparing for a massive concrete pour scheduled for the following morning.
TV Shows
1. Sherlock (2010-2017)
In the hit TV series Sherlock, Andrew Scott brilliantly portrays the character of Jim Moriarty, the arch-nemesis of Sherlock Holmes. Scott’s portrayal of Moriarty is chilling and charismatic, bringing a unique blend of playfulness and menace to the role. His character is a mastermind criminal who thrives on chaos and intellectual games, creating a thrilling foil to Sherlock’s analytical prowess. Scott’s performance is marked by its intensity and unpredictability, which adds a palpable tension to his scenes, particularly in his interactions with Benedict Cumberbatch’s Sherlock.
2. Fleabag (2016-2019)
In the acclaimed series Fleabag, Andrew Scott captivates audiences as the charming and enigmatic “Hot Priest,” a character who becomes a pivotal figure in the second season. Scott’s portrayal is layered and magnetic, blending humor, spirituality, and vulnerability in a way that profoundly resonates with the show’s protagonist, played by Phoebe Waller-Bridge and the audience alike. His character challenges Fleabag’s perceptions of herself and the world around her, offering a mix of wit and wisdom that pushes the boundaries of their unconventional relationship.
3. His Dark Materials (2019-2022)
In the fantasy series His Dark Materials, Andrew Scott takes on the role of Colonel John Parry, also known as Jopari or Dr. Stanislaus Grumman. His character is introduced in the second season as a pivotal figure, a shaman from our world who has crossed into the parallel universe of Lyra’s world. Scott imbues Colonel Parry with a mysterious and solemn presence, capturing the depth and complexity of a man burdened by his knowledge and powers and his responsibilities in the cosmic battle against oppressive forces.
4. The Pursuit of Love (2021)
In the television adaptation of Nancy Mitford’s novel The Pursuit of Love, Andrew Scott shines as Lord Merlin, the eccentric and flamboyant neighbor of the Radlett family. His portrayal of Lord Merlin brings a vibrant and exuberant spirit to the series, perfectly capturing the character’s avant-garde lifestyle and bohemian ethos that starkly contrasts with the more traditional attitudes of the other characters. Scott’s performance is charismatic and nuanced, embodying the liberating influence of Lord Merlin on the protagonist, Linda Radlett, played by Lily James.
5. Black Mirror (2011-2019)
In the Black Mirror episode titled “Smithereens,” Andrew Scott delivers a gripping performance as Chris, a rideshare driver, grappling with profound grief and guilt stemming from a personal tragedy linked to social media. His portrayal vividly captures the intense emotional turmoil of his character, who kidnaps an intern from a major tech company in a desperate bid for attention and resolution. Scott’s ability to convey deep psychological pain and moments of explosive frustration highlights the episode’s critique of modern tech companies’ influence and the human cost of constant connectivity. The episode is a standout in the series, mainly due to Scott’s compelling performance that masterfully balances desperation with a haunting vulnerability.