Broke into television at the age of 15 when a production manager for the British series Byker Grove noticed him in a shoe store. The encounter led to three appearances on the long-running show.
Moved to Los Angeles in 1999 and soon landed a role in Young Americans, a short-lived Dawson's Creek spin-off.
Learned how to ride a motorcycle for his role in Children of Men.
Had been previously cast in two uncompleted film projects with Sons of Anarchy costar Tommy Flanagan.
Participated with the rest of the Sons of Anarchy cast in the 2008 Love Ride, a motorcycle event that benefits several California charities.
Wrote a screenplay based on the life of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula.
Awards
2015, Critics' Choice Television Awards — Best Actor in a Drama Series: Nominee