
Matt Smith’s cinematic and television achievements demonstrate his remarkable talent for infusing depth and subtlety into a diverse array of roles. Born in the United Kingdom in 1982, Smith’s acting journey began on stage in 2003. He made a notable impact in London theater with productions like The History Boys, before stepping onto television with a role in the BBC’s fantasy drama The Ruby in the Smoke in 2006. His breakthrough arrived in 2007 with the drama Party Animals, leading to his film debut in Womb in 2010.
The year 2010 marked a pivotal moment in Smith’s career as he was cast as the 11th Doctor in the iconic sci-fi series Doctor Who. This role catapulted him into the spotlight, showcasing his versatility in franchise hits such as Terminator Genisys and Morbius, alongside critically acclaimed films like The Forgiven and Office Secrets. The expansive range of Matt Smith’s performances underscores his standing as one of today’s most dynamic actors.
10 Terminator Genisys (2015)
Matt Smith as Alex
Despite the struggles of the Terminator franchise to replicate the success of the original films, the 2015 installation Terminator Genisys attempted a fresh direction under director Alan Taylor. In this film, Matt Smith portrays Alex, an advanced Terminator model, tying together the narrative in innovative ways. Smith’s performance is particularly remarkable as he embodies the essence of SkyNet, presenting a character that is both menacingly robotic and fueled by profound animosity. His portrayal captivates audiences through a delicately balanced display of opposing traits, showcasing his unique acting prowess.
9 Patient Zero (2018)
Matt Smith as Morgan
Patient Zero, released in 2018, is notable as a sci-fi horror film where Matt Smith’s performance outshines the somewhat lackluster film, evidenced by its disappointing 11% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Smith plays Morgan, a character who can communicate with the infected in a world ravaged by a rabies variant that transforms victims into zombie-like creatures. His ability to convey depth and complexity provides a stark contrast to the movie’s reception, making it a worthwhile viewing experience for fans of his work.
8 The Forgiven (2022)
Matt Smith as Richard Galloway
The 2021 film The Forgiven, directed by John Michael McDonagh, features an impressive cast, including Ralph Fiennes and Jessica Chastain. Smith takes on the role of Richard Galloway, intertwining his fate with that of a married couple who inadvertently cause a tragedy in Morocco. Although Richard’s character is not deeply explored, Smith’s nuanced performance suggests layers of complexity and hints at a dark past. While not the main protagonist, his portrayal remains a highlight in an otherwise ensemble-driven film.
7 His House (2020)
Matt Smith as Mark Essworth
In the acclaimed film His House, Matt Smith stars as Mark Essworth, a caseworker for a refugee couple fleeing turmoil in their homeland. His performance conveys a complex mix of overt and subtle prejudice layered with moments of genuine concern. Although he embodies an unsettling character, Marks’ attempts to assist the couple demonstrate a struggle between racism and humanity, further emphasizing Smith’s ability to portray multifaceted roles.
6 Office Secrets (2019)
Matt Smith as Martin Bright

In Office Secrets, Smith portrays the real-life journalist Martin Bright, who played a pivotal role in revealing unethical practices during the Iraq War. Directed by Gavin Hood, the film delves into a political scandal that rocked international relations. Smith’s convincing performance contributes significantly to a gripping narrative that captured the attention of critics, earning acclaim for its engaging storytelling and the revelation of significant historical events.
5 Charlie Says (2018)
Matt Smith as Charles Manson
Matt Smith portrays the notorious cult figure Charles Manson in Charlie Says, showcasing his ability to embody real-life individuals with haunting authenticity. This role diverges significantly from his portrayal of Prince Philip in The Crown, proving Smith’s range as an actor. His chilling transformation into Manson left audiences and critics alike astounded, highlighting his exceptional talent and further solidifying his status in Hollywood.
4 Last Night In Soho (2021)
Matt Smith as Jack
In Edgar Wright’s psychological thriller Last Night In Soho, Smith shines as Jack, a character whose charm masks dark undertones. Sharing scenes with Anya Taylor-Joy and Thomasin McKenzie, he exhibits an impressive chemistry that elevates the film’s suspense. Wright’s direction, combined with Smith’s captivating performance, makes this one of his standout roles, revealing the actor’s ability to navigate complex emotions seamlessly.
3 The Crown (2016-2017)
Matt Smith as Prince Philip
In the series The Crown, which chronicles the life of Queen Elizabeth II, Matt Smith portrays Prince Philip in a way that blends regal poise with relatable human experience. His performance garnered significant acclaim and multiple nominations, bringing depth to a historical figure without losing his relatability. Smith’s portrayal remains one of the reasons The Crown stands out in the realm of dramatic television.
2 House Of The Dragon (2022-Present)
Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen
In HBO’s House of the Dragon, Matt Smith portrays Daemon Targaryen, one of the most compelling characters on the show. Following the massive success of Game of Thrones, the prequel brought immense pressure to its cast. Smith rose to the occasion, delivering a memorable performance that has solidified his place as a breakout star in this new era of the franchise. His dynamic portrayal of Daemon captures both the charm and danger of the character, making him a standout in the series.
1 Doctor Who (2010-2014)
Matt Smith as The 11th Doctor
Matt Smith’s role as the 11th Doctor in Doctor Who remains his most iconic and celebrated performance. Taking over from David Tennant, Smith faced high expectations, yet he crafted a unique version of the beloved Time Lord marked by an endearing blend of quirkiness and intensity. His Doctor, filled with warmth and depth, resonated with fans and established Smith as a formidable leading actor in sci-fi television. This portrayal remains quintessential in discussions of his best work, firmly placing Doctor Who at the pinnacle of his career.
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