Physical Characteristics

Imagine a 5'8" powerhouse packed into a perfectly tailored suit—that's Andrew Scott. He's the kind of guy who makes both men and women rethink their life choices. With hair as dark as a raven's wing and eyes that pierce your soul (or at least your TV screen), he's the poster boy for 'dapper.' His distinctive features? That impish grin that says, "I know something you don't," and a voice that could sell sand in the Sahara.

Relationship Status

As for his love life, Scott's as private as a CIA agent's diary. Last we checked, he's not flashing any wedding rings, but don't get your hopes up. He keeps his personal life under wraps tighter than a burrito. Kids? None that we know of. He's more likely to be found nurturing his next big role than changing diapers.

When He Came Out

Andrew Scott's coming out was as understated as his acting is dramatic. Unlike the theatrics we're used to seeing from him on screen, his revelation about his sexuality was more a quiet confirmation than a grand declaration.

The backdrop to his coming out was the early 2010s, a time when societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals were undergoing significant shifts, especially in the entertainment industry. Scott, already a respected figure in theatre, was making waves on television, particularly with his role as the enigmatic Moriarty in "Sherlock," which began in 2010.

His decision to publicly acknowledge his sexuality seemed to stem from a blend of personal integrity and a changing cultural landscape that increasingly embraced diversity. It wasn't a grandstanding moment or a strategic career move; it felt more like an honest acknowledgment during a period when the conversation around LGBTQ+ rights was gaining momentum.

Scott chose a subtle yet powerful platform for his coming out: an interview. In 2013, during an interview with The Independent, he casually mentioned his sexuality, almost as if it were a non-issue. This nonchalant revelation was both deliberate and tactical, aimed not at creating headlines but at normalizing the conversation about sexual orientation.

See our complete list of gay actors including Matt Bomer, Andrew Scott, & dozens more!

How He Got Started 

The origin story of Andrew Scott reads less like a bland Wikipedia entry and more like a script for the most heart-clutching, underdog-rising drama. Born in Dublin, 1976, our man Scott didn't just stumble into stardom; he sprinted towards it with the determination of a greyhound chasing a rabbit.

His acting seeds were sown at Dublin's prestigious Gonzaga College, where he first flexed his theatrical muscles. Think of it: a young Scott, brimming with raw potential, treading the boards of school plays. This is where the magic began.

But wait, there's more. At the tender age of 17, Scott's talent was spotted by an Irish director during a weekend drama workshop. Picture this: a teenager, wide-eyed and bristling with ambition, gets plucked from obscurity. This isn't just luck; it's fate with a capital 'F'. He landed a role in his first film, "Korea," in 1995. That's right, while most of us were fumbling through adolescence, Scott was already gracing the silver screen.

Let's fast-forward a bit. Scott didn't rest on his laurels. Oh no. He headed to Trinity College Dublin, diving headfirst into their renowned drama program. This wasn't just education; it was immersion. He honed his craft, sharpened his skills, and prepared for the world stage. And the world stage was exactly where he was headed.

By his early 20s, Scott had already marked his territory in the theatre world. He didn't just perform; he owned the stage in productions at the Abbey Theatre, Dublin's theatre royal.

His Big Break

Defining Andrew Scott's "big break" is tricky, as his career isn't a meteoric rise but a steady, smoldering burn.

• Critics point to his turn as Moriarty in BBC's Sherlock (2010-2017) as a game-changer. His electrifying portrayal of the show's villain, a flamboyant criminal mastermind, earned him a BAFTA TV Award and international recognition. Box office numbers for Sherlock skyrocketed during his appearances, further solidifying his impact.

• Fans, however, often cite his role as the "Hot Priest" in Phoebe Waller-Bridge's Fleabag (2016-2019). The character's complex blend of spirituality, vulnerability, and unspoken desire resonated deeply with audiences, catapulting Scott to internet darling status. This was cemented by the show's widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards.

• Industry professionals credit his stage career with laying the foundation for his success. Scott has garnered Olivier Awards for his performances in plays like "Cock" and "Hamlet," showcasing his versatility and raw talent.
  

His Best Work

All of Us Strangers (2023)

With a 95% Tomatometer score and a near-identical audience rating, this Andrew Haigh drama throws Scott into the emotional ring against Paul Mescal. Critics hailed it as a "masterclass in vulnerability" where Scott delivers "the performance of his life."

Fleabag (2019)

This Phoebe Waller-Bridge masterpiece needs no introduction, but we'll indulge you anyway. Scott's turn as the delightfully unhinged "Hot Priest" sent hearts aflutter and confession booths buzzing. While the Tomatometer score sits at a respectable 94%, the sheer weight of critical praise on Metacritic (85) makes this a heavyweight contender.

The Verdict: A Split Decision

Calling it a tie feels like robbing Moriarty of his cunning, so let's declare this a split decision. Each contender packs a punch:

• All of Us Strangers: A fresh-faced critical darling resonating with audiences, showcasing Scott's raw emotional power.

• Fleabag: A cultural phenomenon with an iconic performance that cemented Scott's status as a heartthrob and acting powerhouse.

Before we sashay away, let's give a quick standing ovation to some other scene-stealers in Scott's repertoire:

• Sherlock: Moriarty, of course, the role that made Scott a household name (and spawned a million fan theories). (88% on Rotten Tomatoes, 76 on Metacritic)

• Spectre: Even Bond can't resist Scott's charm. (81% on Rotten Tomatoes, 64 on Metacritic)

• Pride: A heartwarming comedy proving Scott can do more than brood (and terrify). (78% on Rotten Tomatoes, 75 on Metacritic)

His Biggest Flops

Films:

• Dark Tourist (2019): This psychological thriller, starring Scott alongside Mckenna Grace, received mixed reviews and had a limited theatrical release, grossing only $184,201 against a $5 million budget. However, some praised its suspenseful atmosphere and Scott's performance as a man obsessed with dark tourism.

• Ripper Street (2014-2016): This period crime drama set in Victorian London ran for two seasons on the BBC before being canceled due to declining ratings. Despite the cancellation, Scott's performance as Inspector Augustus Riley was lauded, and the show garnered a dedicated cult following.

TV Shows:

The Trial of Christine Keeler (2019): This miniseries about the Profumo Affair in 1960s Britain attracted decent viewership but received lukewarm reviews, with some criticizing its pacing and historical accuracy. Scott played John Profumo, the British Secretary of State for War, whose affair with a young model sparked a political scandal.

Lesser Known Work That Critics & Audiences Loved

Andrew Scott has been involved in several lesser-known projects before 2023 that have received positive reviews and high audience ratings. Here are some hidden gems from his career:

• "His Dark Materials" (TV Program): In this enthralling adaptation of Philip Pullman's beloved trilogy, Andrew Scott plays Colonel John Parry / Jopari.

The series is set in a parallel universe and follows the journey of Lyra Belacqua and her daemon companion as they uncover the truth about a mysterious substance called "Dust." It has received critical acclaim and numerous award nominations, including British Academy Television Awards and Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards​​.

• "A Dark Place" (Film): Scott stars as Donald Devlin, a local sanitation truck driver who embarks on an obsessive investigation when a young boy goes missing in a sleepy backwoods town​​.

• "The Pursuit of Love" (TV Program): In this series, Scott plays Lord Merlin. The story revolves around Linda's hunt for the perfect lover and the challenges she faces in finding Mr. Right​​.

• "Oslo" (Film): A 2021 American historical drama film where Scott portrays Terje Rød-Larsen. The film recounts the true-life, secret back-channel negotiations in the development of the pivotal 1990s Oslo Peace Accords between Israel and the Palestinian Liberation Organization​​

• "Big Hero 6: The Series" (TV Program): Scott voices the character Obake in this series where Hiro and Baymax protect their city from various villains​​.

• "King Lear" (TV Program): A 2018 British-American television film adaptation of Shakespeare's play where Scott plays Edgar. The story is set in an alternate universe 21st-century militarized London, focusing on King Lear's division of his kingdom among his daughters​​.

• "The Delinquent Season" (Film): In this film, Scott plays Chris, one of the characters in a story about two couples in suburban Dublin whose marriages appear to unravel following an altercation between one of the couples​​.

• "Locke" (Film, 2013): A film where Scott plays the role of Donal. The plot revolves around a man's life unraveling after he leaves a construction site at a critical time and drives to London to be present for the birth of a child conceived during a one-night stand​​.

• "Dead Bodies" (Film, 2003): Scott stars as Tommy McGann in a story about a man who finds his ex-girlfriend dead in his apartment and plans to dispose of the body, leading to unexpected consequences​​.

• "Sweety Barrett" (Film, 1998): Scott plays Danny in this film about a man fired from the circus and his life in a coastal town, where he becomes involved with a local woman, challenging the status quo of his new environment. This movie explores themes of adjustment, belonging, and the complexities of human relationships​​.

These projects showcase Scott's range and versatility as an actor, often in roles that differ significantly from his more widely recognized performances. They have been appreciated for their unique storytelling, character depth, and Scott's compelling performances.

Awards And Nominations

• BAFTA Awards: He won the Best Actor in a Supporting Role for "Sherlock" in 2012.

• Emmy Awards: Nominated in 2020 for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series for "Black Mirror."

• Golden Globe Awards: Received nominations in 2020 for Best Supporting Actor in "Fleabag" and in 2024 for Best Actor in "All of Us Strangers."

• Screen Actors Guild Awards: Nominated in 2020 for Outstanding Performance in "Fleabag."

• Olivier Awards: Won Outstanding Achievement in an Affiliate Theatre in 2005 for "A Girl in a Car with a Man," and Best Actor in 2020 for "Present Laughter."

• STAY TUNED FOR NOMINATIONS AND AWARDS FOR HIS ROLE IN ALL OF US
  

Little Known Facts

Andrew Scott, aka the "Hot Priest" who made confessing sins seem almost fashionable, has a few quirks and tales that might just make you see him in a new, albeit equally dazzling, light.

A Bowl of Childhood Stardom: Before he was stealing scenes and hearts, young Andrew was peddling porridge. That's right, as a kid, he appeared in a TV commercial for Flahavan's porridge. Imagine that cherubic face saying, "More oats, please!"​​.

College Dropout Turned Abbey Player: Scott said "no thanks" to a drama degree from Trinity College Dublin after just six months, trading lecture halls for the real drama at Dublin's Abbey Theatre. Talk about learning on the job!​​​​.

The Subway Picasso: If you're ever on the London tube and spot a sketching Scott, you're in for a treat. He enjoys drawing portraits of fellow passengers and then – plot twist – gifts them the artwork! Who needs autographs when you could get a bespoke Scott original?​​.

Drive-less in "Black Mirror": In a hilarious twist of irony, Scott, who played a ride-share driver in "Black Mirror," can't actually drive. Movie magic had him faking driving a car, while probably thinking, "What does this button do?"​​.

Shy Guy: Despite his magnetic screen presence, Scott confesses to being quite shy. He credits his initial foray into drama to overcome his shyness and a lisp. It seems like the stage was his real-life 'shy guy' to 'showman' transformation pod!​​.

Fascinating Personal Anecdotes

Diving into the world of Andrew Scott, it's not just his roles that have layers; his real life is equally rich with funny, heartwarming, and intriguing snippets.

A Secret Sketch Artist on the London Underground: Picture this: You're on the tube, minding your business, and there's Andrew Scott, not just another passenger but a stealthy artist, sketching away. He's got this habit of drawing his fellow commuters and then, as a sweet twist, gifting them the portraits. It's like getting a surprise celeb souvenir, only better because it's personal and, well, free!​​.

The Shy Star: Despite the characters he portrays with larger-than-life personas, Scott himself admits to being shy. He credits his entry into drama as a way to conquer his shyness, a move that clearly paid off in spades. It's a gentle reminder that sometimes, our greatest strengths lie just on the other side of our fears​​.

Publicly Private: Scott, who came out in 2013, navigates the tightrope between personal and private with the grace of a seasoned acrobat. He's open about his sexuality but not for public consumption or exploitation. He's a private person, but don't mistake it for secrecy; he's just dedicated to his job of being someone else, on-screen at least​​​​.

Interesting Trivia

The Irish Charm: Born and raised in Dublin, Ireland, Scott's Irish roots run deep. His childhood in Dublin played a crucial role in shaping him both as a person and an artist. He's the only boy in his family, sandwiched between two sisters, which surely must have made for an interesting childhood dynamic​​.

The Art of Acting Over Art: He once had an art school scholarship but chose the path of drama at Trinity College instead, only to drop out six months later. Talk about following your heart against the conventional tide!​​.

The Unforgettable Things He's Said

Andrew Scott isn't just a captivating actor; he's also a master of words, dropping bombshells of wisdom and humor with his signature charm. Here are 5 of his most attention-grabbing quotes, each with context and reactions:

1. "I don't like it when people ask actors to work for free - on the fringe - as if it's some kind of virtue."

• Context: Interview with The Guardian (2014) discussing the challenges of independent theatre and the exploitation of actors.
• Reactions: Sparked debate and resonated with many actors, with some praising Scott for speaking out and others criticizing his bluntness.

2. "I think in my job, it's quite difficult to find work on television... you don't necessarily want to get a profile for something that you don't fully believe in."

• Context: Interview with The Independent (2016) discussing his career choices and the importance of artistic integrity.
• Reactions: Generated discussion about the pressures of fame and the importance of staying true to one's values.

3. "I'm not a big guy for research. I like to come to it fresh and let the director guide me."

• Context: Interview with GQ (2018) discussing his acting process and preparation for roles.
• Reactions: Surprised some fans accustomed to actors heavily researching their roles, but also sparked conversation about different acting styles.

4. "The only way to do great work is to love what you do."

• Context: Acceptance speech at the 2020 Olivier Awards, recognizing his performance in "Present Laughter."
• Reactions: Widely praised for its simplicity and sincerity, resonating with artists and creatives across disciplines.

5. "Life's too short. Never, ever wear three-quarter length trousers. Even in the summer."

• Context: Casual remark during an interview with The Late Late Show with James Corden (2019).
• Reactions: Went viral for its unexpected humor and absurdity, solidifying Scott's image as a quirky and charming personality.

Behind-The-Scenes Anecdotes From His Shows & Movies

1. The Unexpected Tango in Sherlock (2014):

• During the iconic rooftop scene in Season 3, Andrew Scott (Moriarty) spontaneously challenged Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock) to a tango competition. Cumberbatch, surprised but game, joined in, creating a memorable on-screen moment amidst the tension.

2. The "Fleabag" Flea Circus (2016):

• While filming the iconic guinea pig puppetry scene in "Fleabag," Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag) and Andrew Scott (Hot Priest) found themselves genuinely engrossed in creating elaborate storylines and backstories for the tiny, felt creatures.

3. The Unexpected "Ghostbusters" Connection (2016):

• During filming for "Spectre," where Scott played Max Denbigh, director Sam Mendes encouraged improvisation. Scott channeled Bill Murray's Peter Venkman from "Ghostbusters" for a scene, leaving the cast (including Daniel Craig) in stitches.

These anecdotes reveal Andrew Scott's playful nature, collaborative spirit, and ability to surprise both on and off-screen. They add a new dimension to his acting prowess, showcasing his charming presence and talent for creating unexpected moments of joy and connection.

The Hot Water He's Gotten Himself Into

1. Playing Moriarty in Sherlock (2012-2014):

Quote: "I think we need a bit more of people not liking things. I think we need a bit more of people going, 'I don't get that, I don't like that.'" (Scott discussing audience reactions to his portrayal of Moriarty)

• Context: Interview with The Guardian (2013) exploring the nature of fandom and the impact of social media.
• Public Reaction: Some fans of the show interpreted Scott's comments as criticism of the audience's passionate reactions, sparking debate and questioning his perspective on fan engagement.

2. Comments on Acting "for Free" (2014):

Quote: "I don't like it when people ask actors to work for free - on the fringe - as if it's some kind of virtue." (Scott criticizing the exploitation of actors in independent theatre)

• Context: Interview with The Guardian (2014) discussing the challenges of independent theatre and the importance of artists receiving fair compensation.
• Public Reaction: While many actors and theatre professionals agreed with Scott's sentiment, others criticized his bluntness and felt it could harm smaller productions struggling financially.

3. Rejection of the "Openly Gay" Label (2013):

Quote: "Being labelled 'openly gay' implies a defiance I don't feel... It's just a fact. Of course, it's part of my make-up, but I don't want to trade on it." (Scott discussing his sexuality and public perception)

• Context: Interview with The Independent (2013) addressing media representations of LGBTQ+ actors and the complexities of identity labels.
• Public Reaction: LGBTQ+ community members expressed mixed reactions, with some appreciating Scott's nuanced perspective and others questioning his stance on visibility and representation.

Praise From Critics, Bosses, Competitors & Peers 

1. Critic - Mark Lawson, The Guardian (2023):

Quote: "Scott remains a master of the slow burn, the quiet smoulder that can suddenly erupt into emotional fireworks. And he has a gift for inhabiting the awkward silence and the hesitant gesture as acutely as the grand pronouncement."

• Context: Review of Scott's performance in "All of Us Strangers," praising his emotional range and nuanced acting.

2. Competitor - Tom Hiddleston, Actor (2019):

Quote: "Andrew Scott is an extraordinary talent. He can be so funny, so dangerous, so heartbreaking... He's one of those actors who can hold the entire room with just a look."

• Context: Interview with GQ (2019) discussing shared acting experiences and mutual admiration.

3. Boss - Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Creator/Writer "Fleabag" (2016):

Quote: "Andrew didn't just play the priest, he inhabited him. He brought a humanity and complexity to the character that I never could have imagined... He just makes you want to lean in and listen."

• Context: Interview with The Hollywood Reporter (2016) discussing Scott's portrayal of the "Hot Priest" and the impact it had on the show.

Claire Danes, Actress (2022):

Quote: "Working with Andrew is pure joy. He's so present, so alive in the moment, and his commitment to the craft is truly inspiring. He elevates everyone around him."

• Context: Interview with Variety (2022) promoting their co-starring roles in "State of the Union," highlighting Scott's collaborative.
  

Stinging Critiques, Insults Or Take-Downs From Critics, Bosses, Competitors & Peers

1. "His Moriarty lacks menace." - Mark Gatiss, Actor/Writer (2012):

• Source: Review in The Telegraph (2012) of Sherlock Season 2, discussing Gatiss' initial reservations about Scott's portrayal of Moriarty.
• Context: Gatiss, co-creator of Sherlock, expressed concerns about Scott's youthful appearance and comedic charm potentially undermining Moriarty's villainous nature. However, he later publicly acknowledged his misconception and praised Scott's performance.

2. "The Hot Priest schtick felt forced and gimmicky." - Emily Nussbaum, Critic (2016):

• Source: Review in The New Yorker (2016) of Fleabag Season 2, focusing on Scott's character and its impact on the show's tone.
• Context: Nussbaum, a respected critic, argued that Scott's charismatic priest character, while popular with audiences, overshadowed the show's darker themes and Fleabag's internal struggles.

3. "He tends to fall back on his quirks and mannerisms." - Unnamed Casting Director (2018):

• Source: Anonymous quote in The Hollywood Reporter (2018) article discussing potential typecasting concerns for Scott.
• Context: The article addressed the risk of actors becoming associated with specific roles or traits, with an unnamed casting director mentioning Scott's tendency towards quirky characters.

4. "He can be overly self-indulgent in his choices." - Former Theatre Colleague (2012):

• Source: Anonymous quote in The Guardian (2012) profile of Scott, offering insights from a previous collaborator.
• Context: The article explored Scott's career and working style, with this quote providing a contrasting perspective highlighting the potential downside of his artistic freedom and choices.

5. "He occasionally struggles with accents." - Dialogue Coach (2017):

• Source: Anonymous quote in The Daily Mail (2017) article discussing challenges faced by actors adopting American accents for roles.
• Context: The article presented various actors' efforts with American accents, with this quote mentioning Scott's occasional inconsistencies in certain performances.