Mads Mikkelsen

Mads Mikkelsen is an internationally acclaimed Danish actor known for his versatility and ability to play a wide range of characters in both film and TV. He’s cemented himself as one of the most standout actors of his generation, having worked in both European productions and Hollywood blockbusters.

He kicked off his career in theater, but it was his transition to film that launched him into stardom. His first major international breakthrough came with Casino Royale (2006). Since then, he’s collaborated with some of the most celebrated directors, including Nicolas Winding Refn in Valhalla Rising (2009), and Thomas Vinterberg in The Hunt (2012), a role that earned him the Best Actor Award at the Cannes Film Festival, further solidifying his place as one of contemporary cinema’s finest talents.

Over the years, Mikkelsen has become synonymous with playing complex, dark characters, delving into themes of morality, redemption, and inner conflict. His portrayal of the enigmatic Dr. Hannibal Lecter in the Hannibal TV series solidified him as a TV icon. He’s also played pivotal roles in major franchises like Doctor Strange (2016) as Kaecilius, and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016), where he portrayed the scientist Galen Erso. In 2022, Mikkelsen took on the legendary role of Gellert Grindelwald in Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore, pushing his character to new dimensions within the Harry Potter universe.

Photo: Greg Williams