Best known for writing and starring in BAFTA-winning sitcom People Just Do Nothing (Rudeboy Paul), as well as roles in After Life, The Crown, and The Windsors.
Films
- The Last RiflemanAlfie2023
- Love Actually 2? Actually (Red Nose Day short)TV director2017
- The FestivalShayne2016
- Bridget Jones’s BabyMeditation leader2016
- Burn Burn BurnDan2015
- The PardonStephen2015
- RoadkillMac2010
TV shows
- The CrownDesmond Doyne-Ditmas (1 episode)2023
- Dead PixelsRalph (series regular)2019
- After LifePsychic Paul (1 episode)2019
- People Just Do NothingRudeboy Paul (series regular)2012
- The WindsorsPrince Andrew (recurring)2016
- PlebsAlfius (1 episode)2015
- Him & HerDan (recurring)2011
- Comedy LabVarious (1 episode: ‘The Crouches’)2008
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About Tom Basden
Tom Basden is an English actor, writer, and comedian known for his deadpan style and collaborations with the comedy collective behind People Just Do Nothing. He has built a diverse career on British television and film, appearing in both acclaimed comedies and historical dramas.
FAQs
What is Tom Basden’s most famous role?
He is best known for playing Rudeboy Paul in the BAFTA-winning BBC Three mockumentary People Just Do Nothing, which he also co-wrote.
Has Tom Basden been in The Crown?
Yes, he appeared in the 2023 sixth season of The Crown, playing Desmond Doyne-Ditmas, a figure from Diana, Princess of Wales’s summer holiday.
Does Tom Basden write his own material?
Yes, besides co-creating People Just Do Nothing, he has written and performed in radio shows and theatre, notably winning a Fringe First award for his play The Dawson Brothers.
Is Tom Basden in After Life?
He appears in one episode of Ricky Gervais’s After Life (2019) as a psychic named Paul.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026