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July 30, 2026Short & citedBlog
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Screen & Stage • Actor

Tom Ellis

Tom Ellis is a Welsh actor best known for playing Lucifer Morningstar in the television series Lucifer.

Updated July 30, 20261 min readCited sources

Tom Ellis is a Welsh actor best known for playing Lucifer Morningstar in the television series Lucifer. He first gained recognition in British television before breaking into international stardom.

What it is

Tom Ellis, born Thomas John Ellis on 17 November 1978 in Cardiff, Wales, is a Welsh actor who has worked extensively in both UK and US television. He studied dramatic arts at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and began his career in the early 2000s.

Key details

Ellis is best known for playing Lucifer Morningstar in the series Lucifer (2016–2021), which moved from Fox to Netflix. Earlier UK roles include Gary Preston in Miranda, Oliver Cousins in EastEnders, and Thomas Milligan in Doctor Who. He also played Robin Hood in Once Upon a Time.

Why it matters

Ellis's role in Lucifer made him a household name internationally, showcasing his range from comedic to dramatic performances. His career path from British television to a leading role in a major US series highlights his versatility as an actor.

In short

  • Welsh actor born in Cardiff on 17 November 1978.
  • Breakout role as Lucifer Morningstar in Lucifer.
  • Notable UK roles include Miranda, EastEnders, and Doctor Who.
  • Studied at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

Quick questions

Who is Tom Ellis?
Tom Ellis is a Welsh actor best known for playing Lucifer Morningstar in the TV series Lucifer.
When and where was Tom Ellis born?
He was born on 17 November 1978 in Cardiff, Wales.
What other notable roles has he played?
His notable roles include Gary Preston in Miranda, Oliver Cousins in EastEnders, Thomas Milligan in Doctor Who, and Robin Hood in Once Upon a Time.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Ellis_(actor)
    Supports: Birth name, birthplace, career highlights, major roles, Lucifer dates
  2. Apple TV — https://tv.apple.com/us/person/tom-ellis/umc.cpc.5sq4p9cju51442kav5egj6tv2
    Supports: Biography, Welsh background, early life, major television roles
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0255124/bio/
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, education, notable roles, Lucifer casting
  4. TMDb — https://www.themoviedb.org/person/192944-tom-ellis?language=en-US
    Supports: Nationality/background, notable roles, early career overview
  5. TV Guide — https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/tom-ellis/bio/3000488831/
    Supports: Birth name, birthplace, profession