
Born in Suffolk in 1962, Ralph Fiennes wasn't originally going to be an actor. He studied painting at Chelsea College of Art, but then trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in 1985. He began his career as an actor at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and the National Theatre, before working with the [Royal Shakespeare Company](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/actor-profile/royal-shakespeare-company).
After his various roles in the RSC, he has since performed in Man and Superman at the National Theatre and The Play What I Wrote, directed by Kenneth Branagh. He has also played many classic roles including Oepidus the King in the same-named show at the National Theatre and Mark Antony in Julius Caesar.
Fiennes is perhaps best known for his role as Lord Voldemort in J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter film series. On screen, he's also been in Skyfall and The Grand Budapest Hotel and Schindler's List.
In 2016 Fiennes returned to the stage in the titular role in Richard III at the Almeida Theatre, opposite Vanessa Redgrave as Queen Margaret. He's also starred in the one-man play [Four Quartets](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/show/23475-four-quartets) at the Harold Pinter Theatre, which ran for a month. He then played Robert Moses in [Straight Line Crazy](https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/show/23484-straight-line-crazy) at the Bridge Theatre.
He next stars in Grace Pervades in the West End, following its run at Theatre Royal Bath.
Photo credit: Ralph Fiennes (Photo by Brigitte Lacombe)
24 April 2026 - 11 July 2026
19 November 2021 - 19 December 2021
Review14 March 2022 - 18 June 2022
Hear from this year's Olivier Award-nominated stars
Jamie Muscato and Joy Woods to star in 'Cabaret' in the West End
David Hunter, Aimie Atkinson, and more announced in 'Beetlejuice' cast
Full cast announced for 'Stage Kiss' at Hampstead Theatre
Full cast revealed for world premiere of 'Are You Watching?'
Jenna Russell to join the cast of 'Sinatra The Musical'
Freddie Fox, Julian Ovenden and more join 'High Society' at the Barbican
New musical 'Hot Mess' to return to London
2026 Olivier Awards reveals presenters, performances and broadcast plans
Bradley Gibson to make West End debut in 'Hercules'
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