The bestBilly Howlemovies and TV shows highlight the British actor’s remarkable ability to bring depth, nuance, and emotional intensity to a wide range of characters. Born in England in 1989, Billy Howle trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School before making his mark in the entertainment industry. His breakout role came in the 2014 British drama seriesGlue, which paved the way for him to take on a series of diverse and challenging roles in both movies and TV shows internationally.
Over the years, Howle has worked alongside celebrated actorssuch as Saoirse Ronan, Naomi Watts, and Benedict Cumberbatch, demonstrating his range across period dramas, thrillers, and even historical epics. While he may not yet be an Academy Award or Golden Globe winner, his performances have been met with widespread critical acclaim. With a career that continues to evolve, the best Billy Howle movies and TV shows prove he’s solidified himself as a compelling and versatile actor.
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ThoughStar Wars: The Rise of Skywalkerdivided audiences, Billy Howle’s role as Dathan Palpatine -Rey Skywalker’s biological fatherand a clone of the Emperor - remains a significant part of the saga. His character’s tragic backstory adds depth to Rey’s lineage, offering a new perspective on the battle between light and dark. Billy Howle may not have been present for much of the movie, but both he and his character made an impact on the world ofStar Wars.
While his screen time inStar Wars: The Rise of Skywalkeris limited, Billy Howle manages to convey Dathan’s fear for his daughter perfectly, making his short but pivotal role memorable.Playing a key figure in one of the biggest franchises in cinematic history further expanded his career, markingThe Rise of Skywalkeras one of the best Billy Howle movies due to his part in such a significant series.
2022’sInfinite Stormis a gripping survival drama based on true events, featuring Naomi Watts as a seasoned climber who rescues a stranded man, John, played by Billy Howle, during a treacherous blizzard. As the two battle against the elements, the film delves into themes of survival, trauma, and human resilience.
ThroughoutInfinite Storm,Billy Howle delivers a haunting performance as John, a man struggling with deep emotional wounds that become just as crucial to his survival as the harsh conditions.His ability to convey vulnerability without excessive dialogue adds to the film’s quiet intensity.Infinite Stormeasily stands as one of the best Billy Howle movies, as it demonstrates his talent for bringing depth to characters trapped in extreme circumstances.
2021’sThe Serpentis aBritish crime drama miniseriesthat depicts the chilling true story of Charles Sobhraj, a French serial killer who preyed upon Western tourists traveling through Southeast Asia during the 1970s. The show not only delves into Sobhraj’s crimes but also explores the cultural backdrop of the 1970s Hippie Trail, highlighting the vulnerabilities of travelers seeking enlightenment and adventure. Billy Howle delivers a compelling performance as Herman Knippenberg, a Dutch diplomat stationed in Bangkok.
Knippenberg becomes inadvertently involved after receiving reports of missing Dutch tourists, and Howle’s portrayal of the historical figure captures the diplomat’s transformation from a bureaucrat to a determined investigator. Billy Howle’s nuanced performance brings depth to Knippenberg’s character, showcasing his resilience and moral fortitude amidst bureaucratic challenges and personal risks.The Serpentstands as one of Billy Howle’s most notable TV show roles, demonstrating his ability to embody real-life figures with authenticity and emotional complexity.
A gritty Australian drama,Kid Snowstars Billy Howle in the titular role, portraying a washed-up boxer looking for redemption. Set in the 1970s,Kid Snowfollows Kid Snow as he struggles with past failures while being drawn into one last fight that could change everything. Against a backdrop of dust, sweat, and ambition, the movie explores themes of second chances, resilience, and the cost of chasing one’s dreams.
Billy Howle’s raw and vulnerable performance inKid Snowbrings depth to the character, making his internal conflicts feel deeply personal and relatable. His portrayal of a man battling both his physical limitations and his inner demons is gripping, solidifyingKid Snowas one of the best Billy Howle movies.The film further demonstrates his ability to fully embody complex, emotionally-driven characters, adding another impressive entry to his growing filmography.
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Outlaw Kingis a historical epic that chronicles the life of Robert the Bruce, portrayed by Chris Pine, as heleads a rebellion against English rulein 14th-century Scotland. Billy Howle takes on the role of Edward, Prince of Wales, the primary antagonist determined to suppress the Scottish uprising. The film presents a gritty portrayal of medieval warfare, political intrigue, and the relentless pursuit of freedom.
Billy Howle’s depiction of Prince Edward is intense and formidable, embodying the ruthlessness and determination of a leader facing insurrection. His performance adds a compelling layer toOutlaw Kings, providing a formidable counterpart to Pine’s Robert the Bruce.Outlaw Kingstands as one of the best Billy Howle movies, showcasing his versatility in tackling historical figures and complex antagonists.The 2018 movie is important in Howle’s wider body of work, as it reflectshis capacity to adapt to various genres and character archetypes.
Billy Howle’s breakthrough role came in the UK, when he joined the 2014 Channel 4 dramaGlue, a gripping British mystery series that centers around the death of a teenager in a rural town. Billy Howle plays James Warwick, one of the close-knit group of friends whose lives unravel as the investigation unfolds.Gluewas a success when it released in the UK, and soon gained international acclaim too, which opened many doors for Billy Howle.
Released over a decade ago, James inGluestill stands as one of the best Billy Howle roles of his career so far. His performance is both authentic and emotionally charged, capturing the raw energy of youth and the weight of secrets.Glueremains one of the best Billy Howle TV shows, as it not only launched his career but also showcased his natural ability to carry complex storylines.
InThe Seagull,an adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s classic play, Billy Howle plays Konstantin Treplyov, a struggling playwright desperate for artistic recognition and love. Set in early 20th-century Russia, the film explores unfulfilled desires, ambition, and the passage of time. Howle’s passionate and tortured performance breathes new life into Treplyov, capturing the character’s yearning and disillusionment.
The Seagullretains the melancholic atmosphere of the original play while allowing Howle to shine in a deeply complex role. His interpretation of Treplyov’s frustrations and artistic struggles makes the character deeply human, resonating with audiences and critics alike.The Seagullshowcases his remarkable ability to balance vulnerability and intensity, and further cemented Billy Howle’s reputation as an actor capable of tackling intricate literary adaptations with emotional depth and intelligence.
The poignant dramaOn Chesil Beachcaptures one of the most nuanced Billy Howle performances so far. He portrays Edward Mayhew, a young
historian who marries Florence Ponting,played by Saoirse Ronan. Set in 1962 England, the film delves into the complexities of their relationship, focusing on their ill-fated wedding night.On Chesil Beachexamines themes of intimacy, societal expectations, and personal insecurities, as the couple’s differing backgrounds and unspoken fears lead to a profound misunderstanding that alters the course of their lives.
Billy Howle manages to perfectly capture Edward’s earnestness and vulnerability, conveying the character’s deep affection for Florence alongside his frustration and confusion.His portrayal adds emotional depth to the movie, making Edward’s internal struggles palpable.On Chesil Beachis one of the best Billy Howle movies, highlighting his ability to embody complex characters and navigate intricate emotional landscapes. The film showcases Howle’s talent for bringing authenticity to roles that require a delicate balance of passion and restraint.
Directed and created by Dustin Lance Black,Under the Banner of Heavenwas a resounding success for FX and Hulu. The chilling true-crime series follows the brutal murder of a woman, Brenda Lafferty (played by Daisy Edgar-Jones) in a devout Mormon community. Billy Howle plays Allen Lafferty, the husband of the murdered woman, whose crisis of faith and entanglement in family secrets become central to the investigation.
Howle’s portrayal of Allen Lafferty inUnder the Banner of Heavenis deeply affecting, capturing the anguish of a man caught between his religious upbringing and the harsh reality of the crime.His performance adds emotional weight to the show’s exploration of faith, violence, and the dangers of extremist beliefs. Among the best Billy Howle TV shows,Under the Banner of Heavencements his reputation for tackling difficult, thought-provoking roles.
In the 2024 Netflix limited seriesThe Perfect Couple, Billy Howle plays Benji Winbury, a member of a wealthy New England family caught in the whirlwind of a murder mystery. Based on Elin Hilderbrand’s bestselling novel, the Netflix series blends suspense, family drama, and romance as a wedding takes a dark turn when a body is discovered.
Billy Howle’s role as Benji places him at the center of the unfolding drama, allowing him to showcase his ability to balance charm and vulnerability.His performance contributes significantly to the overall emotional weight to the series, making him a standout in an ensemble cast that includes several Hollywood A-Listers.The Perfect Coupleis one of the best Billy Howle TV shows, proving his talent for navigating intricate, tension-filled narratives.
