Colin Firth has been a household name for over 30 years and some of his most iconic roles have since stuck with fans.
His most prominent roles include Mr. Darcy in the BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice (1995) while others may know him as Mark Darcy in Bridget Jones’s Diary or Harry Bright in Mamma Mia! (2008).
From period dramas to action-packed thrillers to musical numbers, Firth has starred in them all. He won an Oscar for his performance as King George VI in The King’s Speech (2010), also earning a Golden Globe, BAFTA, and Screen Actors Guild Award for the role.
Now, let’s dive into his most memorable and standout roles!
Pride and Prejudice (1995)
Pride and Prejudice (1995) is truly the best, and no list of romantic films is complete without Colin’s role as Mr. Darcy.
The series follows Elizabeth Bennet (Jennifer Ehle), who meets the seemingly stuck-up and arrogant Darcy at a ball, which he attends with his best friend, Mr. Bingley.
Elizabeth takes an instant dislike to him, though she later learns more about him, and all isn’t as it appears.
This classic is one of the most iconic “enemies to lovers” stories ever told. The supporting cast, including Alison Steadman and Donald Sutherland, brings this classic Austen tale to life.
Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
In Bridget Jones’s Diary, Mark Darcy is the quiet, romantic hero. He’s shy and a little awkward as he tries to win over Bridget.
Compared to Hugh Grant’s flashy character, Daniel Cleaver, Mark’s slow reveal of his feelings makes him the perfect romantic lead.
I know many of us couldn’t help but feel overcome with emotion at his heartfelt confession. We can all agree Mark is a beloved character in romantic comedy history.
The King’s Speech (2010)
The King’s Speech tells the gripping story of King George VI, who must overcome a crippling stutter to lead Britain through World War II.
From self-doubt to self-acceptance is nothing short of inspiring, as he transforms from a hesitant, reluctant king into a strong, confident leader.
Love Actually (2003)
Love Actually includes the story of a writer named Jamie, who goes to France and starts a romance with Aurelia. Despite their turbulent relationship, fans find out whether their love makes it through the storm.
A Single Man (2009)
A Single Man tells the heartfelt story of George Falconer, a man coping with the loss of his partner.
Set over one important day, the film takes viewers on an emotional journey of grief and self-reflection. With themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning, George’s story is deeply moving.
Mamma Mia! (2008)
Many of us will remember watching Mamma Mia! The film follows our main protagonists Donna, played by Meryl Streep, and her soon-to-be bride Sophie Sheridan (Amanda Seyfried) as they prepare for her wedding in Greece.
In an unexpected twist, Sophie invites three men from her mother’s past, unsure of which one is her father, including Harry (played by Colin Firth) a charming and slightly awkward man who’s reconnecting with his past.
Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014)
When Kingsman: The Secret Service hit theaters in 2014, Harry Hart instantly became a standout character. A seasoned spy with a sharp eye for talent, he mentors a young recruit, guiding him into the world of espionage.
Magic in the Moonlight (2014)
Magic in the Moonlight follows Stanley, a cynical illusionist, who meets Sophie, a young woman claiming to have psychic powers. Set on the French Riviera, fans are treated to a blossoming yet unexpected romance in this charming, light-hearted film.
Then She Found Me (2007)
In Then She Found Me, Colin stars opposite actress Helen Hunt as Frank, a good-natured teacher who unexpectedly finds love. While it is one of his lesser-known movies, Firth is brilliant as he plays a romantic lead in this emotional story.
Where the Truth Lies (2005)
For those who enjoy a touch of mystery with their romance, Where the Truth Lies should be your next watch! The story follows Vince Collins, a singer involved in a scandal. Set in the glamorous 1950s, this movie is perfect if you love suspense, mystery, and forbidden attraction.
Easy Virtue (2008)
Easy Virtue is about John Whittaker, who returns home with his older, American wife, Larita, causing tension with his disapproving mother. As Larita faces hostility from her new in-laws, things take a turn for the worse.
The English Patient (1996)
If you haven’t seen The English Patient, it’s definitely one of those underrated movies you should watch. The film tells the story of Geoffrey Clifton a British pilot who is deeply in love with his wife, Katharine, but his world falls apart when she begins an affair with Almásy.
Hope Springs (2003)
A romantic comedy, Hope Springs is set in the small town of Hope, Vermont. The film follows a British artist who has just experienced a painful breakup and decides to escape to America.
Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003)
Girl with a Pearl Earring is about the story of Griet, a young servant who becomes the muse for the famous painter Johannes Vermeer. Set in 17th-century Delft, Colin Firth stars alongside Scarlett Johansson.
Genius (2016)
Genius follows editor Maxwell Perkins and his turbulent partnership with the eccentric Thomas Wolfe. As they fight over the writer’s bold ideas, their relationship becomes a rollercoaster of tension.
Okay, now we’ve truly gone through some of his movie roles – and it has really showcased Firth’s incredible talent. So, grab some popcorn, cozy up, and let his charm sweep you off your feet!
Colin Firth’s Rise to Stardom
Born in Hampshire, the actor started out his career in theatre, with his first role being in the production of Hamlet. In 1987, Firth and other up-and-coming British actors such as Tim Roth, Bruce Payne, and Paul McGann were dubbed the ‘Brit Pack.’
From there he landed a part in the 1988 BBC dramatization Tumbledown, where he played real-life British soldier Robert Lawrence MC. Due to his role, Colin earned his first-ever Royal TV Society Best Actor Award and a nomination for the 1989 BAFTA Television Award.
However, his breakthrough came when he finally played Mr Darcy in the television adaption of Pride and Prejudice. As you can tell the rest is history.