Written by: Thomas Blackwood

Iain Glen: The Versatile Actor of Stage and Screen

Iain Glen is a Scottish actor widely recognized for his iconic roles as Dr. Alexander Isaacs in the Resident Evil film series and Jorah Mormont in the hit HBO fantasy television series Game of Thrones. With a career spanning over three decades, Glen has established himself as a talented and diverse performer, taking on a wide range of characters in film, television, and theater.

Early Life and Education

Glen was born on June 24, 1961, in Edinburgh, Scotland, and educated at the Edinburgh Academy, an independent school for boys. He later attended the University of Aberdeen, followed by the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, where he graduated in 1985 with an Acting RADA Diploma, winning the prestigious Bancroft Gold Medal.

Career Highlights

Glen's big screen debut came in the 1988 film Paris by Night, alongside Charlotte Rampling and Michael Gambon. The same year, he appeared in Gorillas in the Mist with Sigourney Weaver. His breakthrough role came in 1990 with the film Silent Scream, for which he won the Silver Bear for Best Actor at the Berlin International Film Festival.

In the 2000s, Glen appeared in notable films such as Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001) and Resident Evil (2004). He also played the title role in the Irish television series Jack Taylor (2010-2016). Glen's portrayal of Sir Richard Carlisle in the hit period drama Downton Abbey (2011) further solidified his reputation as a talented character actor.

In 2011, Glen began his iconic role as Jorah Mormont in the hit HBO fantasy series Game of Thrones, earning widespread critical acclaim for his performance. He continued to impress audiences with roles in Eye in the Sky (2015) and Titans (2019-2021), playing Bruce Wayne/Batman.

Theater Career

As an accomplished stage actor, Glen has acted in a wide array of theater productions, including playing the titular roles in Shakespeare's Hamlet, Macbeth, and Henry V. He received three Laurence Olivier Award nominations for his performances in the original production of the musical Martin Guerre, the West End production of The Blue Room, and the 2006 West End revival of The Crucible, portraying John Proctor.

Awards and Honors

• Silver Bear for Best Actor at the Berlin International Film Festival (1990)
• Bancroft Gold Medal at RADA (1985)
• Three Laurence Olivier Award nominations

Personal Life

Glen's older brother, Hamish Glen, is the artistic director of the Belgrade Theatre, Coventry, and former artistic director of the Dundee Repertory Theatre. Glen's dedication to his craft and versatility as a performer have earned him a loyal following and critical acclaim throughout his career.