Anthony Calf is a seasoned British actor renowned for his extensive work in television, film, and theatre. Known for his refined performances and commanding screen presence, Calf has portrayed characters across a wide range of genres, from historical dramas to contemporary thrillers. With a career spanning over three decades, this comprehensive guide explores all of Anthony Calf’s movies and TV shows, providing fans and researchers with a full overview of his contributions to the screen.
Television Series and Mini-Series
| Year | Title | Role | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1989 | The Woman in Black | Charles | TV Film |
| 1994 | The Madness of King George | Fitzroy | Film |
| 1995 | Pride and Prejudice | Colonel Fitzwilliam | Mini-Series |
| 1999 | Great Expectations | Herbert Pocket | TV Film |
| 2002–2011 | Holby City | Michael Beauchamp | Series |
| 2003–2015 | New Tricks | DAC Robert Strickland | Series |
| 2003 | Foyle’s War | Thomas Nelson | Series |
| 2004–2022 | Doc Martin | Bernard Newton, Others | Series |
| 2006 | The Line of Beauty | Geoffrey Titchfield | Mini-Series |
| 2020 | Call the Midwife | Mr. Arkwright | Series |
| 2022 | The Crown | Mark Thatcher | Series |
| 2022 | A Spy Among Friends | Intelligence Officer | Mini-Series |
| 2023 | The Sandman | Burgess stand-in | Series |
Early Life and Career Foundation
Anthony Calf was born on May 4, 1959, in Hammersmith, London, England. He trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), one of the UK’s most prestigious acting schools. His formal training laid a strong foundation for a career defined by versatile performances in both classic and modern roles.
Breakthrough in British Television
Anthony Calf’s early appearances in British television quickly positioned him as a dependable actor capable of tackling complex roles. He was especially drawn to period dramas, where his poise and diction made him a natural fit.
Major Television Roles
The Madness of King George (1994)
Genre: Historical Drama
Role: Fitzroy
Medium: Film
Synopsis: A dramatization of the mental illness of King George III and the political aftermath. Calf played a nobleman, showcasing his aptitude for period storytelling.
Pride and Prejudice (1995)
Genre: Period Drama
Role: Colonel Fitzwilliam
Medium: BBC TV Mini-Series
Synopsis: In this iconic adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel, Anthony Calf portrayed Colonel Fitzwilliam with elegance, earning him critical acclaim.
New Tricks (2003–2015)
Genre: Crime Drama
Role: Strickland
Synopsis: Calf had a recurring role as DAC Robert Strickland, the boss of the UCOS team. This long-running series contributed to his mainstream recognition.
Doc Martin (2004–2022)
Genre: Comedy Drama
Role: Various appearances (notably Bernard Newton)
Synopsis: Calf appeared in multiple episodes over the years, cementing his status as a staple in British television drama.
Roles in Mini-Series and British Historical Productions
Anthony Calf has excelled in mini-series adaptations of classic literature and historical events. These roles have defined his career and showcased his range.
Holby City (2002–2011)
Role: Michael Beauchamp
Genre: Medical Drama
Episodes: Multiple arcs across different seasons
Description: Calf played a recurring character whose professional ambition caused tension among the hospital staff.
Foyle’s War (2003)
Role: Thomas Nelson
Episode: “The German Woman”
Synopsis: Played a character affected by WWII tensions in this acclaimed detective series set in wartime Britain.
The Line of Beauty (2006)
Role: Geoffrey Titchfield
Genre: Drama
Medium: BBC Mini-Series
Synopsis: Based on Alan Hollinghurst’s Booker Prize-winning novel, Calf depicted a conservative MP during the Thatcher years.
Selected Film Roles
While Anthony Calf is predominantly known for television, his filmography includes notable cinematic performances, particularly in British film.
Anna Karenina (1997)
Role: Mikhailov
Genre: Historical Drama
Description: A supporting role in this adaptation of Tolstoy’s novel, adding to his period drama credentials.
Great Expectations (1999)
Role: Herbert Pocket
Description: This adaptation of the Dickens classic featured Calf in one of the most affable roles of the story.
The Woman in Black (1989)
Role: Charles
Description: A chilling ghost story from the BBC archives, where Calf contributed to the tension and atmosphere.
Modern Dramas and Procedurals
In addition to historical roles, Anthony Calf has taken part in a wide range of contemporary dramas.
The Crown (2022)
Role: Mark Thatcher
Platform: Netflix
Synopsis: In Season 5 of The Crown, Calf portrayed Mark Thatcher, son of Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, during the events of the Falklands War and his controversial disappearance during the Paris-Dakar rally.
Call the Midwife (2020)
Role: Mr. Arkwright
Episode: “Series 9, Episode 4”
Description: A touching performance as a father dealing with post-natal complications.
Silent Witness (2001–2019)
Role: Multiple episodes, including Dr. Evan Chapman
Genre: Forensic Crime Drama
Synopsis: Frequently cast in high-profile guest roles.
Theatre to Screen Transitions
Anthony Calf has a strong presence in the theatre world, often bringing those performances to television through recorded plays or adaptations.
Royal Shakespeare Company and National Theatre Involvement
Calf’s classical training has led him to star in productions of:
- Macbeth
- Hamlet
- The Seagull
- The Madness of George III
These theatrical works often influence the roles he’s cast in on television, making him a top choice for literary and historical screen adaptations.
Recent Appearances and Ongoing Projects
As of the mid-2020s, Anthony Calf remains active in both TV and film.
The Sandman (2023)
Role: Roderick Burgess (replacement scenes and stand-in)
Platform: Netflix
Description: Appeared in a minor capacity connected to a fantasy project involving British lore and magic.
A Spy Among Friends (2022)
Role: Intelligence Officer
Network: ITVX
Description: A Cold War espionage drama based on the Kim Philby scandal.
Complete Filmography of Anthony Calf
Here is a detailed list of Anthony Calf’s movie and TV credits:
Awards and Critical Reception
While not a household name globally, Anthony Calf has received praise in the UK for his consistency, range, and integrity as an actor. His performances are frequently lauded by critics for their subtlety and depth, especially in ensemble casts.
Notable Recognition
- Frequent collaboration with top-tier directors like Tom Hooper and Andrew Davies.
- Appeared in multiple BAFTA-nominated and Emmy-winning productions.
- Respected for his dedication to classical storytelling.
Personal Life
Anthony Calf is married to actress Caroline Harker, with whom he shares three children. The couple occasionally appears in theatrical productions together and supports arts education in the UK.
Conclusion
Anthony Calf’s career is a testament to the enduring power of skillful, nuanced acting. Whether he’s appearing in a BBC period drama, a Netflix thriller, or a West End stage production, Calf brings gravitas and authenticity to every role. With a body of work that spans genres, centuries, and continents, his filmography stands as a robust contribution to British and global screen storytelling.
If you’re a fan of historical dramas, detective series, or classic literature adaptations, Anthony Calf’s work is essential viewing. His consistent presence on British television and in critically acclaimed films ensures his legacy as a versatile and respected figure in the entertainment industry.