Graduated from the University of Kent at Canterbury with a degree in English and American Literature. Was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters degree by the University in 2001.

Attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts.

Has played both a villain and hero of the American Revolution; Gen. Lord Charles Cornwallis in the Patriot and Ben Franklin in John Adams.

Was offered a role in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, but didn't like the prospect of a year long production keeping him away from his family.

Has two children: Alice, born in 1989 and Molly, born in 1992.

He was awarded the 1988 London Critics Circle Theatre Award (Drama Theatre Award) for Best Actor for his performance in An Enemy of the People.

He was awarded the 1986 London Critics Circle Theatre Award (Drama Theatre Award) for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Ghosts.

Became an Associate Member of RADA.

He was awarded the O.B.E. (Officer of the order of the British Empire) in the 2005 Queen's New Years Honours List for his services to Drama.

He has performed at the Oxford Playhouse, the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre and on the stage at London's West End.