When one talks about elegance, talent, and consistency in British cinema and television, Keeley Hawes immediately comes to mind. Her career spans over three decades, encompassing acclaimed roles in film and TV that have made her one of the United Kingdom’s most respected actresses. Whether she’s playing an ambitious detective, a conflicted wife, or a woman facing social upheaval, Hawes brings authenticity and depth to every character.
In this detailed feature, we’ll explore Keeley Hawes’s movies, her early life, her marriage to Matthew Macfadyen, her daughter Maggie Macfadyen, her parents, and her personal background — including her net worth, age, and birthday.
Who Is Keeley Hawes?
Keeley Clare Julia Hawes, born on February 10, 1976, in Marylebone, London, is a British actress and producer whose career has made her a household name. Known for her compelling performances in Bodyguard, Line of Duty, Ashes to Ashes, and Spooks, Hawes is a symbol of resilience, intelligence, and emotional depth in British acting.
She grew up in a working-class family in central London, the youngest of four siblings. Her father was a London taxi driver, and her mother a homemaker. Hawes has often spoken about her humble beginnings and how her parents instilled in her the value of hard work and humility — traits that continue to define her.
As a teenager, she attended the prestigious Sylvia Young Theatre School, a breeding ground for many successful British performers. During her time there, she briefly ventured into modeling but soon realized her heart belonged to acting. This early exposure to performance and storytelling paved the way for her long-lasting career in both television and film.
Keeley Hawes Young: From Theatre School to Rising Star
The early years of Keeley Hawes’s career were marked by determination and a willingness to take on diverse roles. Her first significant recognition came in 1998 with the BBC adaptation of “Our Mutual Friend,” where her portrayal of Lizzie Hexam was widely praised. The performance showcased her ability to portray complex emotions — a skill that became her hallmark.
In her younger years, Hawes appeared in a series of acclaimed British productions, including Wives and Daughters (1999), Tipping the Velvet (2002), and The Beggar Bride (1997). She quickly became known for bringing subtle strength and dignity to her roles. Even in her early twenties, her on-screen presence reflected maturity and poise far beyond her years.
These formative years helped shape Hawes into one of the most versatile actresses of her generation. Her “young” era was not about fame or glamour but about building credibility and range — qualities that would serve her well throughout her career.
Keeley Hawes Movies: A Blend of Range and Refinement
Though television has been the cornerstone of Keeley Hawes’s career, her film roles are equally impressive. Her cinematic journey reflects a wide array of genres — from dark comedies to historical dramas. Here are some of her most notable movies:
1. Death at a Funeral (2007)
A dark British comedy directed by Frank Oz, Death at a Funeral showcases Hawes’s comedic timing as Jane, the fiancée of the protagonist. Amid chaos and absurdity, Hawes delivers a restrained yet hilarious performance that anchors the film’s emotional tone.
2. The Bank Job (2008)
In this gripping heist film based on real events, Hawes plays Wendy Leather, the wife of Jason Statham’s character. Her performance brings emotional depth to the story, balancing tension with tenderness. The film was both a critical and commercial success, earning her further acclaim.
3. High-Rise (2015)
An adaptation of J.G. Ballard’s dystopian novel, High-Rise stars Tom Hiddleston and features Keeley Hawes as Ann Royal, a refined resident of a collapsing social experiment. Hawes’s portrayal adds layers of melancholy and sophistication to the film’s chaotic energy.
4. Misbehaviour (2020)
Set during the 1970 Miss World competition, Misbehaviour is a sharp feminist dramedy in which Hawes plays Julia Morley, the wife of the contest’s organizer. Her role highlights the generational clash of values during a time of changing gender norms.
5. To Olivia (2021)
In this moving biographical drama, Hawes stars as Patricia Neal, the acclaimed actress and wife of author Roald Dahl. The film captures the couple’s grief following their daughter’s death, and Hawes’s performance is widely praised for its emotional authenticity and grace.
While her movie appearances may be fewer than her television roles, each film has demonstrated her precision and depth as an actress. Her performances stand out not through showiness, but through quiet strength and genuine emotion — the essence of Keeley Hawes’s artistry.
Keeley Hawes on Television: The Small Screen’s Queen
Keeley Hawes has arguably had more influence on television than almost any other British actress of her generation. Her career-defining TV performances have solidified her as a small-screen icon.
- Spooks (2002–2004): As MI5 agent Zoe Reynolds, Hawes helped elevate this spy thriller into one of the BBC’s flagship shows.
- Ashes to Ashes (2008–2010): Playing DI Alex Drake, she blended psychological drama and sci-fi with poise and intelligence.
- Line of Duty (2014–2016): Her turn as DI Lindsay Denton remains one of the most memorable and morally ambiguous performances in British TV history.
- Bodyguard (2018): As Home Secretary Julia Montague, Hawes brought authority and vulnerability to one of the most-watched UK dramas of the decade.
- It’s a Sin (2021) and Crossfire (2022): Her recent roles continue to demonstrate her versatility and fearlessness in tackling emotional material.
Her television work has earned her multiple BAFTA nominations and a UNICEF ambassadorship, further cementing her status as an actress who uses her influence for meaningful causes.
Keeley Hawes Husband: Matthew Macfadyen
Behind Keeley Hawes’s professional success is a strong personal life anchored by her marriage to acclaimed actor Matthew Macfadyen. The couple met while filming Spooks in the early 2000s and married in October 2004.
Matthew Macfadyen, best known for his roles as Mr. Darcy in Pride & Prejudice (2005) and Tom Wambsgans in HBO’s Succession, shares a deep bond with Hawes, both professionally and personally. Their marriage is admired for its privacy and stability — qualities rare in the entertainment industry.
The pair have two children together: Maggie Macfadyen, born in 2004, and Ralph Macfadyen, born in 2006. Hawes also has an older son, Myles, from her previous marriage to DJ Spencer McCallum.
Despite their fame, Hawes and Macfadyen have kept their family life out of the spotlight, occasionally offering glimpses of domestic life marked by humor, balance, and mutual respect.
Maggie Macfadyen: Keeley Hawes’s Daughter
Maggie Macfadyen is the eldest child of Keeley Hawes and Matthew Macfadyen, born shortly after her parents married. While still young, she has occasionally drawn public curiosity due to her parents’ fame.
Keeley and Matthew have been protective of their children’s privacy, ensuring that they enjoy a normal upbringing away from the pressures of celebrity life. In interviews, Hawes has expressed how motherhood has influenced her acting choices, often leading her to roles that explore emotional resilience and family dynamics.
Although there is speculation that Maggie Macfadyen may one day follow in her parents’ footsteps, both actors have emphasized education and normalcy over fame for their children.
Keeley Hawes Parents and Early Influences
Hawes’s parents played a crucial role in shaping her grounded personality. Growing up in Marylebone, she often recalls her childhood as happy and modest. Her father, a taxi driver, and her mother, a homemaker, raised her in a close-knit family that valued kindness and perseverance.
Even after achieving fame, Hawes has often credited her parents for keeping her humble and for teaching her that “the most important thing is to treat people well.” This down-to-earth attitude has made her beloved not just by fans, but also by colleagues in the industry.
Keeley Hawes Net Worth and Achievements
As of 2025, Keeley Hawes’s net worth is estimated to be between $4 million and $6 million USD. This wealth stems from her long-standing acting career, her production credits, and occasional voice work, such as lending her voice to Lara Croft in the Tomb Raider video game series.
Unlike many celebrities, Hawes has maintained a modest lifestyle. Her focus remains on artistic growth and storytelling rather than luxury or fame. In interviews, she often highlights the importance of meaningful work and family over material success.
Keeley Hawes Age and Birthday
Keeley Hawes was born on February 10, 1976, which makes her 49 years old as of 2025. Despite nearly three decades in the entertainment industry, her career shows no signs of slowing down.
She has continued to age gracefully, taking on roles that reflect maturity and life experience. Her evolution as an actress mirrors her growth as a person — confident, intelligent, and deeply empathetic.
Keeley Hawes: A Timeless Talent
Keeley Hawes is not just an actress; she’s a storyteller who embodies the changing landscape of modern British drama. Whether in Keeley Hawes’s movies or her award-winning television performances, she consistently brings authenticity to her work.
Her marriage to Matthew Macfadyen, her role as a devoted mother to Maggie and Ralph, and her dedication to humanitarian causes all showcase a woman who balances fame with grace.
As she continues to take on new projects, Keeley Hawes remains a role model for aspiring actors and an inspiration to audiences who appreciate talent grounded in integrity.
Written and Published by Infory – Your Source for Authentic Celebrity Stories and Entertainment Insights., or beyond, her star will continue to shine brightly.