Richard Madden, a Scottish actor celebrated for his commanding presence and versatile performances, rose to international fame as Robb Stark in HBO’s Game of Thrones. From his beginnings in theater to leading roles in television and film, Madden’s career trajectory exemplifies dedication, talent, and an uncanny ability to embody complex characters. With critically acclaimed performances in Bodyguard and Cinderella, as well as his entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Eternals, Madden has cemented his status as a global star.
Quick Facts
Full Name | Richard Madden |
Birth Date | June 18, 1986 |
Birth Place | Elderslie, Renfrewshire, Scotland |
Age | 38 years old (as of 2024) |
Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
Father’s Name | Richard Madden Sr. |
Father’s Occupation | Firefighter |
Mother’s Name | Pat Madden |
Mother’s Occupation | Primary School Teacher |
Height | 5 feet 10 inches (177 cm) |
Weight | Approximately 77 kg (170 lbs) |
Marital Status | Unmarried |
Children | None |
Residence | London, England |
Net Worth | $15 million (estimated) |
@maddenrichard | |
Car Collection | Audi A5, Range Rover |
Wikipedia Page | Richard Madden on Wikipedia |
Early Life and Childhood
Family and Upbringing
Richard Madden was born on June 18, 1986, in Elderslie, Renfrewshire, Scotland, a small village steeped in history as the birthplace of William Wallace. His father, Richard Madden Sr., was a firefighter, while his mother, Pat Madden, worked as a primary school teacher. Madden grew up in a modest household alongside two sisters, including his younger sibling Cara Madden. His family instilled in him strong values of resilience and hard work.
Childhood and Early Aspirations
Shy and introverted as a child, Madden joined the Paisley Arts Centre’s youth theater program at the age of 11 to overcome his insecurities. Acting provided a creative outlet for Madden, helping him build confidence and discover his passion for storytelling.
His early exposure to the performing arts sparked a lifelong ambition, and Madden continued to hone his craft through school productions and local theater. By his teenage years, he had already landed his first professional acting role in the BBC adaptation of Barmy Aunt Boomerang.
Education
Richard Madden attended Castlehead High School in Paisley and later enrolled in the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (formerly the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama). He graduated in 2007 with a degree in acting, armed with the skills and discipline needed to launch a professional career.
Career
Theater Beginnings
After graduating, Madden began performing in stage productions across the United Kingdom. One of his standout early roles was in the Globe Theatre’s tour of Romeo and Juliet, where he played Romeo. His emotionally charged performances in classical theater solidified his reputation as a talented actor and prepared him for larger opportunities in television and film.
Game of Thrones and Global Fame
Richard Madden’s breakthrough came in 2011 when he was cast as Robb Stark, the noble and tragic King in the North, in HBO’s Game of Thrones. His portrayal of the honorable yet ill-fated Stark heir resonated with audiences, earning him critical acclaim and international recognition.
Madden’s performance during the infamous Red Wedding episode remains one of the series’ most iconic moments, showcasing his ability to convey both vulnerability and strength.
Post-Game of Thrones: Diverse Roles in Television and Film
After leaving Game of Thrones, Madden pursued a wide range of roles that demonstrated his versatility:
- Cinderella (2015): Madden starred as Prince Kit in Disney’s live-action adaptation of the beloved fairy tale, showcasing his charm and ability to captivate audiences in a romantic lead role.
- Bodyguard (2018): His portrayal of David Budd, a PTSD-afflicted war veteran-turned-police officer, earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor. The gripping thriller became a global sensation and reaffirmed Madden’s ability to carry a leading role.
- Rocketman (2019): Madden played John Reid, Elton John’s lover and manager, in this biographical musical drama, displaying his range in a more antagonistic and layered character.
Marvel and Eternals
In 2021, Madden joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ikaris, one of the titular heroes in Eternals. His role as the powerful yet conflicted Eternal added another blockbuster film to his resume, further solidifying his presence in Hollywood.
Future Projects
Madden continues to take on ambitious projects, including the Amazon Prime series Citadel, an action-thriller produced by the Russo brothers. His career trajectory suggests a commitment to exploring diverse roles and genres.
Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
Richard Madden stands 5 feet 10 inches (177 cm) tall and weighs approximately 77 kg (170 lbs). Known for his athletic build, piercing blue eyes, and commanding screen presence, Madden has frequently been included in “sexiest men” lists and serves as a brand ambassador for high-profile fashion labels, including Calvin Klein.
Personal Life
Relationships and Family
As of now, Richard Madden remains unmarried and has no children. He has been linked to several high-profile relationships, including actress Jenna Coleman and model Suki Waterhouse, though he has largely kept his personal life private.
Residence
Madden resides in a stylish London townhouse, reflecting his taste for modern architecture and understated luxury. The home is a sanctuary where he balances his bustling acting career with downtime.
Close Friends and Collaborators
Madden shares close friendships with several industry figures, particularly his Game of Thrones co-stars. He has maintained a strong bond with Kit Harington and Emilia Clarke, and he frequently collaborates with fellow Scottish actors, including James McAvoy.
Car Collection
Madden’s car collection mirrors his penchant for elegance and practicality. He owns a Range Rover for everyday use and an Audi A5 for stylish urban commuting.
Net Worth and Achievements
Richard Madden’s estimated net worth is $15 million. His income stems from acting roles in blockbuster films and critically acclaimed series, brand endorsements, and theater productions. His starring role in Bodyguard reportedly earned him a lucrative deal with Netflix, further boosting his earnings.
Richard Madden’s IMDb Profile
For an in-depth look at his filmography, awards, and upcoming projects, visit his official IMDb page:
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Richard Madden’s full name?
Richard Madden. - When was Richard Madden born?
June 18, 1986. - How old is Richard Madden?
He is 38 years old (as of 2024). - What is Richard Madden’s zodiac sign?
Gemini. - Is Richard Madden married?
No, he is currently unmarried. - Where does Richard Madden live?
He lives in London, England. - What is Richard Madden’s most famous role?
Robb Stark in Game of Thrones. - What car does Richard Madden drive?
He owns a Range Rover and an Audi A5. - What is Richard Madden’s net worth?
Approximately $15 million. - What awards has Richard Madden won?
He won a Golden Globe Award for Bodyguard in 2019.
In a Nutshell
Richard Madden’s journey from a shy Scottish boy to an internationally recognized actor is a testament to his passion, resilience, and undeniable talent. With iconic roles like Robb Stark and David Budd, Madden has proven his ability to captivate audiences across genres. His dedication to his craft, combined with his charm and authenticity, ensures that he will remain a prominent figure in the entertainment world for years to come.