Ruling Hell? Thomas Ellis’ meteoric rise (actor interview).
Welsh actor Thomas Ellis has been stirring up quite the celestial storm in the realm of fantasy, sci-fi, and horror TV series. From his role as Gary Preston in the BBC One sitcom Miranda to embodying the devilishly delightful Lucifer Morningstar in the hit series Lucifer, Ellis has proven that he’s got the acting chops to bring complex characters to life. Ellis first captured hearts as Gary Preston in Miranda. His portrayal of the affable chef, who serves up both dishes and laughs, was a recipe for success. The show’s mix of slapstick humor and endearing awkwardness, with Ellis at the heart of it, turned many a gloomy, rainy old day in the UK into a brighter one.
A Kingly Presence in Merlin
Ellis didn’t stop there. He went on to don the royal mantle as King Cenred in the BBC fantasy series Merlin. His performance was a blend of charm and menace – a testament to his versatility. It’s no easy feat to stand out in a show brimming with magical talents, but Ellis managed to leave an impression that was anything but medieval.
From the Depths of Hell to L.A.’s Nightlife
But it was his portrayal of Lucifer Morningstar in the Fox and later Netflix series Lucifer that skyrocketed Ellis to international fame. The show, an adaptation of the DC Comics character, saw Ellis transform into the suave, piano-playing, crime-solving devil who abandons Hell for Los Angeles. His nuanced performance brought a delightful twist to the age-old tale of good versus evil.
A Devil in the Details
Ellis’ Lucifer was more than just a fallen angel; he was a character with depth and complexity, juggling existential crises with a wicked sense of humor. Whether he was consulting for the LAPD, running his nightclub, or dealing with celestial family drama, Ellis’ performance was consistently charismatic and engaging. His efforts didn’t go unnoticed. In 2021, Ellis clinched the Tell-Tale TV Award for Favorite Actor in a Cable or Streaming Sci-fi/Fantasy/Horror Series. This accolade was a nod not only to his talent but also to his ability to bring a fresh perspective to a well-trodden genre.
A Voice for Animation?
But Ellis isn’t just a one-trick pony; he’s also lent his voice to several animated series, proving that his talent transcends the physical screen. From voicing Oscar Wilde in Family Guy to GodCat in Exploding Kittens, his versatility knows no bounds.
As we look forward to his upcoming roles, including Christopher ‘Titch’ Wilde in Washington Black, it’s clear that Thomas Ellis has become a force to be reckoned with in the fantasy, sci-fi, and horror TV realm. His journey from a beloved BBC sitcom to ruling Hell and back has been nothing short of spectacular. Ellis has shown that he can play anything from a lovable chef to a cunning devil, and we can’t wait to see what he cooks up next in his acting cauldron.
