Andrew Lincoln, born Andrew James Clutterbuck on September 14, 1973, is an English actor best known for his portrayal of Rick Grimes in the post-apocalyptic horror series "The Walking Dead" and his role as Mark in the romantic comedy film "Love Actually."
Andrew Lincoln discovered his passion for acting at a young age, with his first significant role coming at 14 as the Artful Dodger in a school production of "Oliver!" 3. This early experience, coupled with a summer at the National Youth Theatre in London, sparked his interest in pursuing acting as a career 3. Lincoln's parents, who had a passion for amateur drama, likely influenced his artistic inclinations 5. He went on to study at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), further honing his skills and laying the foundation for his future success in the entertainment industry 13.
Andrew Lincoln's breakthrough role came in 1996 when he was cast as Edgar "Egg" Cook in the popular BBC drama series "This Life" 13. The show, which focused on the lives of young professionals sharing a house in London, became a critical and commercial success, catapulting Lincoln into the spotlight 2. His portrayal of the laid-back and charming Egg resonated with audiences, establishing him as a rising star in British television 4. This role not only marked Lincoln's first major acting credit but also set the stage for his future success, demonstrating his ability to captivate viewers with his natural charisma and acting prowess 12.
Andrew Lincoln's transition to American television came in 2010 when he was cast as Rick Grimes, the lead character in AMC's post-apocalyptic horror series "The Walking Dead" 13. This role marked a significant shift in Lincoln's career, propelling him to international fame and earning him critical acclaim. As Rick Grimes, a sheriff's deputy leading a group of survivors in a zombie-infested world, Lincoln showcased his versatility as an actor and gained a massive global following 4. His performance in the series earned him two Saturn Awards for Best Actor on Television in 2015 and 2017 5. Lincoln remained with the show for nearly a decade, departing in 2018 but returning for the series finale in 2022 and the spin-off "The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live" in 2024 5.
Andrew Lincoln has been married to Gael Anderson, daughter of Jethro Tull's Ian Anderson, since June 10, 2006 3. The couple has two children: Matilda, born in 2007, and Arthur, born in 2010 23. Lincoln is known for prioritizing his family life, a commitment that led him to leave "The Walking Dead" in 2018 to spend more time with his family in the UK, as the show's production was based in Atlanta 2. Despite his fame, Lincoln and Anderson have maintained a private family life, often shielding their children from the public eye 2.