Olivia Colman

Photo of Olivia Colman

Biography

A British comic icon equally adept at drama, Olivia Colman displayed an onscreen fearlessness and flair for physical comedy. Beloved in the U.K. for her work on sitcoms like "Black Books" (Channel 4, 2000-04), "Green Wing" (Channel 4, 2004-07) and her British Comedy Award-nominated role on "Peep Show" (Channel 4, 2003- ), she also starred on several sketch comedy series, including Bruiser" (BBC Two, 2000) and "That Mitchell and Webb Look" (BBC …
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Job Title

Actor, Music

Born

Sarah Caroline Colman on January 30, 1974 in England, GB

Career Milestones

Met the comedy duo Mitchell and Webb while attending Cambridge University and became a central member of their acting ensemble

2000

Made her TV series debut with a starring role on the BBC comedy "Bruiser"

2001

Played various characters on "The Mitchell and Webb Situation" (BBC)

2005

Feature debut, "Zemanovaload"

2006

Co-starred in the mockumentary feature "Confetti"

2006

Reteamed with Mitchell and Webb for "That Mitchell and Webb Look" (BBC)

2007

Acted in the comedy "Hot Fuzz," starring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost; met frequent collaborator Paddy Considine during filming

2007

Acted opposite Considine in the British comedy feature "Le Donk & Scor-zay-zee"

2007

Co-starred with Peter Mullan in the short film "Dog Altogether," directed by Considine

2008

Portrayed Barneys creative director Simon Doonan's mother Debbie on the BBC comedy series "Beautiful People"

2011

Breakthrough performance in "Tyrannosaur"; film reunited her with co-star Mullan and director Considine

2011

Landed a supporting role in "The Iron Lady," starring Meryl Streep as Margaret Thatcher

Awards

2011

Chicago International Film Festival for Silver Hugo - Best Actress in Tyrannosaur

2011

Sundance Film Festival for World Cinema Special Jury Prize for Acting in Tyrannosaur