Helen McCrory Movies and TV Shows highlight her incredible range and versatility as an actress. Over her celebrated career, she graced the stage, silver screen, and television with unforgettable performances that captivated audiences worldwide.
Known for her commanding presence and emotional depth, Helen brought complex characters to life, earning critical acclaim for her exceptional talent. Her film career includes standout roles such as Narcissa Malfoy in the Harry Potter series, where she portrayed a fiercely protective mother with grace and intensity.
In The Queen (2006), Helen played Cherie Blair, showcasing her ability to seamlessly blend into historical dramas. She also starred in Skyfall (2012), adding her touch to the iconic James Bond franchise.
On television, Helen McCrory shone in Peaky Blinders as Polly Gray, a formidable matriarch whose strength and wit became a cornerstone of the series. Other notable works include Penny Dreadful and MotherFatherSon, where she displayed her incredible emotional range.
Her theater background further enriched her performances, making her a force in every medium she touched. Helen McCrory’s legacy in movies and TV shows reflects her passion for storytelling and her unmatched ability to immerse herself in any role, leaving an enduring impact on the entertainment world.
Helen McCrory Biography/Wiki
Field | Details |
Full Name | Helen Elizabeth McCrory |
Date of Birth | August 17, 1968 |
Place of Birth | Paddington, London, England |
Date of Death | April 16, 2021 |
Age at Death | 53 years |
Cause of Death | Cancer |
Nationality | British |
Ethnicity | White British |
Profession | Actress |
Years Active | 1990–2021 |
Famous Roles | Polly Gray (Peaky Blinders), Narcissa Malfoy (Harry Potter series) |
Education | Drama Centre London |
Parents | Father: Iain McCrory (Diplomat), Mother: Anne McCrory (Physiotherapist) |
Siblings | Two younger siblings |
Spouse | Damian Lewis (m. 2007–2021) |
Children | Two: Manon Lewis and Gulliver Lewis |
Notable Films | Harry Potter series, Skyfall, The Queen, Hugo |
Notable TV Shows | Peaky Blinders, Penny Dreadful, Fearless |
Theater Highlights | Macbeth, Medea, As You Like It |
Awards | London Film Critics’ Circle Award for Best Supporting Actress |
Philanthropy | Co-founder of Feed NHS, raised $1.8 million for frontline workers |
Hobbies | Reading, traveling, spending time with family |
Net Worth at Death | $25 million |
Estate | £857,257.12 left in trust for her family |
Legacy | Renowned for her incredible acting talent and charitable contributions |
Who is Helen McCrory?
Helen McCrory was an accomplished British actress who was celebrated for her powerful performances in film, television, and theater. Born on August 17, 1968, in Paddington, London, she built a career defined by versatility and depth. McCrory gained global fame as Polly Gray in Peaky Blinders and Narcissa Malfoy in the Harry Potter series.
Her performances showcased her ability to embody complex, resilient characters, earning her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. Beyond her acting, McCrory was known for her philanthropic efforts, co-founding Feed NHS and raising $1.8 million to support healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Married to actor Damian Lewis, she was a devoted wife and mother to their two children, Manon and Gulliver. Despite her untimely death from cancer in 2021 at the age of 53, McCrory’s legacy as an extraordinary artist and compassionate individual lives on, inspiring countless admirers worldwide.
Helen McCrory Early Life and Family
Growing up in a family that valued education and culture, Helen developed an early passion for storytelling and the arts. She was the eldest of three siblings, often described as the confident and charismatic leader among them.
Her father’s diplomatic career exposed her to diverse cultures, as the family frequently moved across the globe. This international upbringing enriched Helen’s perspective and creativity, fueling her desire to pursue acting. She attended Queens wood School in Hertfordshire, where her talent for drama became evident.
After completing her secondary education, McCrory enrolled at the Drama Centre London, where she honed her craft and prepared for a career in the performing arts. Her upbringing, marked by cultural exposure and familial support, laid the foundation for her extraordinary achievements in acting and philanthropy.
Helen McCrory Amazing Career
Helen McCrory’s career was a masterclass in versatility and excellence. Beginning her journey in theater, she debuted at the National Theatre in London during the early 1990s, quickly becoming a standout performer.
Her remarkable talent was recognized in productions like Medea and Twelfth Night, earning her accolades and cementing her as a leading figure in British theater. McCrory seamlessly transitioned to screen, captivating audiences with her roles in acclaimed films such as The Queen, The Special Relationship, and Narcissa Malfoy in the Harry Potter series. Her portrayal of Polly Gray in Peaky Blinders became iconic, showcasing her ability to imbue characters with strength and complexity.
Beyond acting, Helen was committed to philanthropy, co-founding Feed NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her work left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, securing her legacy as one of Britain’s most cherished and accomplished actresses.
Helen McCrory Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
Attribute | Details |
Height | 5 feet 4 inches (162 cm) |
Weight | 119 pounds (54 kg) |
Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Hair Color | Dark Brown |
Skin Tone | Fair |
Body Type | Slim |
Facial Features | Sharp cheekbones, expressive eyes, and a radiant smile |
Distinctive Traits | Poised demeanor and commanding on-screen presence |
Wardrobe Style | Elegant, often favoring classic and sophisticated attire |
Shoe Size | 6 (US) / 36.5 (EU) |
Makeup Preferences | Minimalist with a focus on enhancing natural beauty |
Fitness Routine | Balanced diet and regular yoga for maintaining mental and physical well-being |
Signature Look | Wavy dark hair, natural makeup, and tailored dresses for red-carpet events |
Notable Features | Versatile appearance suited for diverse roles across historical dramas and contemporary films |
Helen McCrory Movies and TV Shows:
TV Shows
- Peaky Blinders (2013–2022)
Helen McCrory played the iconic role of Polly Gray, the fierce matriarch of the Shelby family, showcasing her commanding screen presence and depth of character. - Penny Dreadful (2014–2016)
In this gothic horror series, Helen portrayed Evelyn Poole (Madame Kali), a witch and antagonist, bringing elegance and menace to the role. - Fearless (2017)
Helen starred as Emma Banville, a lawyer dedicated to uncovering justice, in this gripping legal drama. - Quiz (2020)
She played Sonia Woodley QC in this miniseries based on the infamous “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” cheating scandal. - Doctor Who (2010)
Helen appeared as Rosanna Calvierri, a memorable antagonist in the episode “The Vampires of Venice.”
Movies
- Harry Potter Series (2009–2011)
Helen portrayed Narcissa Malfoy in the final three films of the series, delivering a nuanced performance as Draco’s protective mother. - The Queen (2006)
She played Cherie Blair, wife of Prime Minister Tony Blair, in this critically acclaimed biographical drama. - Skyfall (2012)
Helen had a brief but impactful role as the Chairwoman of the Intelligence and Security Committee in this James Bond classic. - The Count of Monte Cristo (2002)
As Valentina Villefort, Helen added depth and elegance to this adaptation of the classic novel. - Loving Vincent (2017)
She voiced Louise Chevalier in this groundbreaking animated film about the life of Vincent van Gogh.
Helen McCrory Husband/Boyfriend and Relationship Status
Helen McCrory shared a beautiful and enduring relationship with fellow actor Damian Lewis, whom she married in 2007. The couple epitomized love and partnership, often described as one of the most admired couples in the entertainment industry.
Together, they had two children, a daughter, Manon, and a son, Gulliver, who were the center of their lives. Known for their mutual respect and shared passion for the arts, Helen and Damian supported each other’s careers while maintaining a close-knit family dynamic. Despite their fame, the couple kept their personal lives relatively private, focusing on their family and philanthropic efforts.
Their bond was evident in their public appearances, where they exude warmth and affection. After Helen’s untimely passing in 2021, Damian paid heartfelt tributes to her, celebrating her as a remarkable woman, mother, and actress. Their love story remains a testament to true partnership and devotion.
Helen McCrory Net Worth
Aspect | Details |
Net Worth at Death (2021) | $25 million |
Primary Sources of Wealth | Acting in theater, film, and television; endorsements; philanthropic initiatives |
Estate Value | £857,257.12, left in trust for her husband Damian Lewis and their children Manon and Gulliver |
Annual Earnings (Peak) | Estimated $3–5 million annually from acting projects and endorsements |
Major Projects | Harry Potter series, Peaky Blinders, The Queen, Medea, Twelfth Night, The Special Relationship |
Brand Endorsements | Collaborations with luxury fashion and lifestyle brands |
Charitable Contributions | Co-founded Feed NHS, raising $1.8 million during the COVID-19 pandemic |
Real Estate Holdings | Family home in London, valued in millions |
Luxury Assets | Art collections, designer wardrobe, and a penchant for fine jewelry |
Posthumous Legacy | Her work continues to generate revenue through royalties and syndication |
Helen McCrory Future Plans and Goals
Before her untimely passing in 2021, Helen McCrory was an actress with a clear vision for her future. She expressed a desire to continue exploring challenging and diverse roles that pushed the boundaries of storytelling.
Known for her transformative performances, Helen aimed to work with emerging directors and writers, fostering fresh talent in the film and theater industries. Philanthropy was a significant part of her plans, as she and her husband Damian Lewis actively supported charitable causes.
Helen’s work with Feed NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated her commitment to making a tangible difference in the world. She envisioned expanding such efforts, focusing on initiatives that supported underprivileged communities and the arts.
In interviews, Helen often spoke about balancing her career with her role as a mother. Her goal was to create a legacy of kindness, excellence, and inspiration that would resonate far beyond her acting achievements.
Helen McCrory Social Media
Platform | Followers | Engagement | Posts | Description | Link |
14K | – | 81 | Fans honor Helen McCrory’s legacy by sharing memorable photos and quotes. | Visit Instagram | |
TikTok | – | 7,566 Likes, 24 Comments | 20.9M posts | TikTok features tributes, clips, and fan-made edits celebrating her career. | Visit TikTok |
– | – | – | Fan pages regularly share updates about her work and charitable efforts. | Visit Facebook | |
YouTube | – | – | – | Includes interviews, speeches, and iconic scenes from her projects. | Visit YouTube |
– | – | – | Tweets highlight her exceptional talent, philanthropic work, and career impact. | Visit Twitter |
Fun Facts About Helen McCrory
-
Versatile Talent:
Helen McCrory was celebrated for her ability to seamlessly transition between stage, television, and film, earning critical acclaim in all three mediums.
-
Polly Gray Legacy:
Her role as Polly Gray in Peaky Blinders became iconic, with fans praising her for bringing depth and strength to the character.
-
Charitable Efforts:
Alongside her husband Damian Lewis, Helen helped raise $1.8 million for the Feed NHS campaign during the COVID-19 pandemic.
-
Royal Recognition:
Helen was honored by Queen Elizabeth II in 2017, receiving an OBE for her services to drama.
-
Multilingual Skills:
Fluent in French, Helen often expressed her love for the language and credited it for enhancing her acting versatility.
Helen McCrory Videos and Images
Frequently Asked Questions about Helen McCrory
What was Helen McCrory’s most famous role?
Helen McCrory is best known for her role as Polly Gray in the hit television series Peaky Blinders. Her portrayal of the strong and resourceful matriarch earned her widespread acclaim. She also played Narcissa Malfoy in the Harry Potter series, further cementing her legacy in film and television.
Was Helen McCrory married?
Yes, Helen McCrory was married to actor Damian Lewis. The couple tied the knot in 2007 and shared a loving relationship until her passing in 2021. They had two children, Manon and Gulliver.
What philanthropic work did Helen McCrory do?
Helen McCrory was actively involved in philanthropy. She, alongside her husband, helped raise $1.8 million for the Feed NHS initiative to provide meals for healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What was Helen McCrory’s net worth?
At the time of her death in 2021, Helen McCrory’s net worth was estimated to be $25 million. Her estate was left in a trust for her husband, Damian Lewis, and their children.
Conclusion about Helen McCrory
Helen McCrory was a remarkable actress whose talent, charisma, and dedication left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Born on August 17, 1968, in Paddington, London, she rose to prominence through her work in theater, film, and television, earning critical acclaim for roles such as Polly Gray in Peaky Blinders and Narcissa Malfoy in the Harry Potter series.
Beyond her artistic achievements, Helen was a compassionate individual who contributed to society through philanthropy, including her efforts in the Feed NHS campaign. Her legacy is not only defined by her impressive career but also by her warmth, generosity, and the inspiration she provided to countless individuals.
Even after her untimely passing in 2021, Helen McCrory remains a symbol of excellence and resilience in the performing arts. Her contributions will continue to inspire future generations, ensuring her place in the hearts of fans and peers alike.