James Harkness was born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland, in the area of the Gorbals. Growing up in a challenging environment, he was no stranger to the hardships of inner-city life. Raised primarily by his mother, Harkness learned resilience and independence from an early age. His childhood was marked by moments that could have deterred many from pursuing their dreams, yet he held a deep fascination with drama and storytelling.
From his days at King’s Park Secondary School, it was evident that he had an exceptional talent for performance. Drama classes and school plays became his sanctuary, a space where he could transform into different characters and escape the limitations of his environment. This early exposure to theatre laid the foundation for a career that would later span stage, television, and film.
One significant and traumatic incident occurred when Harkness was 18 years old. He was attacked with an axe in a dispute over a stolen mobile phone. The event left lasting physical and emotional scars, including anxiety when encountering certain situations or places. Instead of allowing this to hinder his path, Harkness used it as a source of strength, drawing on his own experiences to bring depth and authenticity to the roles he would later portray.
Breakthrough in Television Drama
Harkness’s rise in the acting world was steady, marked by memorable performances that showcased his range. His breakthrough came with the 2019 BBC drama The Victim, in which he played Craig Myers, a man wrongly accused of being a convicted child murderer. The series was gripping and morally complex, and Harkness’s portrayal drew praise for its raw emotional intensity. His performance conveyed the torment of a character caught in a storm of public outrage and personal desperation.
Following this, he appeared in The Nest (2020), another BBC drama that kept viewers on edge. Harkness played a role that required both subtlety and grit, proving once again his ability to adapt to different storylines and emotional landscapes. That same year, he starred as Jimmy Love in Netflix’s The English Game, a period drama that explored the early history of football. As Love, Harkness brought warmth and humanity to the screen, connecting with audiences worldwide.
Other notable television credits include Anne Boleyn (2021), where he demonstrated his versatility in historical drama, and Raised by Wolves (2022), showing his ease in adapting to contemporary, innovative storytelling. In The Sixth Commandment (2023), he continued to demonstrate his skill in portraying layered characters. In 2025, he appeared as DS Sandy Gay in the powerful drama The Bombing of Pan Am 103, cementing his reputation as an actor capable of handling sensitive, real-life subject matter with respect and depth.
Film Career and Memorable Roles
James Harkness’s filmography is just as impressive as his television work. His debut in major cinema came with Macbeth (2015), a film adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy. Though his role was modest, it was a significant step into the world of high-profile film production.
In 2016, he appeared in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, portraying Private Basteren. While a small role in a large-scale production, it was a testament to his growing recognition within the industry. His talent for blending seamlessly into a cast while leaving a lasting impression on audiences became one of his hallmarks.
Harkness’s performance in Darkest Hour (2017) placed him alongside some of the most respected actors in the industry. This role, combined with appearances in Wild Rose (2018) and Spencer (2021), highlighted his adaptability and ability to enhance a film’s emotional texture, even in supporting parts. More recently, his work in Poison Arrows (2022) and Betrayal (2023) further displayed his ability to tackle complex narratives and deliver memorable performances.
A Strong Presence in Theatre
While many know James Harkness from his screen roles, his theatre career is equally remarkable. He has performed in an impressive array of stage productions, both in the UK and internationally. His credits include Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Aida, Chicago, Guys and Dolls, Dreamgirls, and The Color Purple. These productions not only showcased his acting talent but also revealed his skills in singing and movement, qualities that have enhanced his screen performances.
One of his most notable stage roles was in Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, where he played Paul Williams in the original Broadway production. This role demanded a balance of vocal talent, dramatic ability, and stage charisma — all of which Harkness delivered with distinction.
In addition to acting, Harkness has worked as a choreographer and creative director in theatre, lending his expertise to various productions. His association with companies such as the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe underscores his commitment to artistic excellence and collaborative performance.
Recognition and Industry Respect
James Harkness’s dedication to his craft has not gone unnoticed. In 2019, he was selected for the BAFTA Elevate programme, an initiative designed to support emerging actors from underrepresented backgrounds. This recognition not only affirmed his talent but also positioned him as a role model for aspiring performers who come from challenging circumstances.
His ability to convey authenticity and emotional truth has made him a respected figure among directors, producers, and fellow actors. Whether portraying a working-class Glaswegian, a historical figure, or a character caught in extraordinary events, Harkness consistently brings a sincerity that resonates with audiences.
Acting Style and Approach
Harkness is known for his immersive approach to acting. He often draws on personal experiences to inform his portrayals, creating characters that feel grounded and real. His ability to inhabit a role fully means he is equally at home in gritty dramas, historical pieces, and light-hearted productions.
He avoids overacting, instead focusing on subtle expressions and physicality to convey emotion. This naturalistic style allows viewers to connect with his characters on a deeper level, making his performances memorable even when he is not the central figure in a story.
Overcoming Adversity
The journey of James Harkness is not only about professional success but also about personal resilience. The challenges he faced in his youth could easily have led him down a different path. Instead, he channelled his energy into the arts, using performance as both a creative outlet and a form of personal empowerment.
His story is a reminder that adversity can be transformed into strength. By sharing his experiences openly, Harkness has also helped to break down stigmas around trauma and mental health, inspiring others to pursue their goals despite obstacles.
Future Prospects
With each new role, James Harkness expands his range and deepens his impact as an actor. His consistent ability to choose projects with substance suggests that he will continue to be a powerful presence in both British and international entertainment.
As streaming platforms create new opportunities for diverse storytelling, actors like Harkness are well-positioned to reach wider audiences. Given his track record, it is likely that the coming years will see him taking on even more challenging and prominent roles.
Conclusion
James Harkness’s career is already an inspiring narrative of determination, skill, and authenticity. He has proven that one can rise from difficult beginnings to achieve success on an international stage without compromising artistic integrity. His performances are grounded in truth, making them resonate long after the credits roll.
As a figure in contemporary acting, Harkness represents a blend of talent and resilience that appeals to a broad audience. His journey from the Gorbals to acclaimed roles across television, film, and theatre is a testament to the transformative power of the arts.
