Best known for playing Cyril in ‘Phantom Thread’ (Oscar-nominated), Mary in ‘Mum’ (BBC sitcom), and Laila in ‘Another Year’ (Mike Leigh film).
Films
- The Beautiful GameFiona2024
- Mrs. Harris Goes to ParisPamela2022
- The BatmanDory2022
- Phantom ThreadCyril Woodcock2017
- Maleficent: Mistress of EvilQueen Ingrith2019
- Another YearMary2010
- Vera DrakeMrs. Wells2004
- All or NothingPenny2002
- Topsy-TurvyLucy Gilbert1999
- High HopesLaetitia Boothe-Braine1988
TV shows
- The CrownPrincess Margaret2022–2023
- SherwoodJulie Jackson2022–2024
- MumCathy (Mary)2016–2019
- RiverChrissie Read2015
- Moving OnLynne2014
- Doctor WhoElla2014
- Waking the DeadDr. Grace Foley2004–2005
- Prime Suspect 4DC Jones1995
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About Lesley Manville
Lesley Manville is a highly acclaimed English actress, renowned for her long collaboration with director Mike Leigh and her versatility across stage, film, and television. Over five decades, she has earned an Academy Award nomination, multiple BAFTA nominations, and an OBE for her services to drama.
FAQs
What is Lesley Manville’s most famous film role?
Her most celebrated role is Cyril Woodcock in Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘Phantom Thread‗ (2017), for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
Has Lesley Manville won any major awards?
Yes, she has won a BAFTA TV Award for Best Supporting Actress for ‘River’ (2016) and a National Society of Film Critics Award for ‘Another Year’ (2010). She was appointed OBE in 2015.
What TV show did Lesley Manville play Princess Margaret in?
She played Princess Margaret in the final two seasons (5-6) of Netflix’s ‘The Crown’ (2022-2023), succeeding Helena Bonham Carter.
Is Lesley Manville associated with Mike Leigh?
Very much so. She has appeared in six of his films: ‘High Hopes’ (1988), ‘Secrets & Lies’ (1996), ‘Topsy-Turvy’ (1999), ‘All or Nothing’ (2002), ‘Vera Drake’ (2004), and ‘Another Year’ (2010).
What is Lesley Manville’s role in ‘Mum’?
In the BBC sitcom ‘Mum’ (2016-2019), she plays Cathy (often called Mary), the central character, a widow navigating family life with gentle humour.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026