For over forty years, Hugh Laurie has captivated audiences with his exceptional talent across film and television. He launched his acting career in the 1980s, earning recognition in various productions throughout that decade and the 1990s, including iconic series like Blackadder, along with beloved films such as 101 Dalmatians, Stuart Little, and The Man in the Iron Mask.
However, it was not until 2004 that Laurie truly ascended to stardom, thanks to his compelling portrayal of Dr. Gregory House in the critically acclaimed medical drama House. Widely regarded as one of the greatest medical drama series to grace television, House has defined much of Laurie’s career, albeit he has also showcased his prowess in notable roles in Veep, The Night Manager, and Chance.
10
Chance (2016-2017)
Hugh Laurie as Dr. Eldon Chance
Adapted from Kem Nunn’s novel of the same name, Chance follows Dr. Eldon Chance, a forensic neuropsychiatrist who inadvertently gets embroiled in a world of police corruption and manipulation through one of his patients. Despite its brief two-season run, Chance stands out as a gripping thriller, showcasing Laurie’s impressive performance that elevates the intensity of the narrative.
While Dr. Chance may not possess the same level of strength as Laurie’s memorable Dr. House, the actor masterfully reveals the character’s darker complexities, transforming him from an ostensibly moral man to one entangled in moral dilemmas.
9
Stuart Little (1999)
Hugh Laurie as Mr. Frederick Little
Based on E.B. White’s classic children’s book, Stuart Little tells the heartwarming tale of a young mouse adopted by the Little family, navigating life’s challenges with optimism. This delightful family film stands out due to strong performances, notably from Michael J. Fox as Stuart and Jonathan Lipnicki as his older brother George.
In his role as Mr. Frederick Little, Laurie’s connection with Stuart is immediate and heartfelt, as he embodies the supportive patriarch who embraces the absurdity of their situation. His charming performance adds depth, making him an endearing figure throughout the film.
8
Tehran (2024)
Hugh Laurie as Eric Peterson
One of Hugh Laurie’s latest roles is in the Israeli spy thriller Tehran, focusing on Tamar Rabinyan, a Mossad agent sent on an undercover mission to sabotage Iran’s nuclear operations. Though the first two seasons set a solid foundation, the third season elevates the narrative with Laurie’s compelling portrayal as Eric Peterson, a South African nuclear inspector caught in a web of international intrigue.
As his character grapples with ethical dilemmas and danger, Laurie’s performance reveals layers of complexity, culminating in an impressive villainous turn that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
7
Arthur Christmas (2011)
Hugh Laurie as Steve Claus
Arthur Christmas explores the charming dynamics of Santa Claus’ family, centering around Arthur, Santa’s younger son. This enchanting holiday film combines humor and heartfelt moments with superb animation, celebrating the spirit of Christmas.
Laurie voices Steve Claus, Arthur’s older brother, who embodies a joyless and cynical demeanor against the backdrop of a joyous holiday narrative. His voice acting brings a nuanced edge to Steve’s character, making it one of his standout vocal performances.
6
The Personal History of David Copperfield (2020)
Hugh Laurie as Mr. Dick
In this modern adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic, The Personal History of David Copperfield, we witness a fresh and humorous take on David’s life, portrayed by Dev Patel. The film features a stellar cast, and Laurie’s role as Mr. Dick—a kind-hearted yet eccentric figure—provides a poignant touch to the narrative.
Laurie’s portrayal of Mr. Dick is a testament to his ability to embody quirky characters, delivering an unforgettable performance that resonates with audiences.
5
Sense and Sensibility (1995)
Hugh Laurie as Mr. Palmer
Sense and Sensibility, based on Jane Austen’s beloved novel, masterfully presents themes of romance and societal expectations through the lives of sisters Elinor and Marianne Dashwood. This timeless period drama resonates with audiences and has seen numerous adaptations across multiple mediums.
In a supporting role as Mr. Palmer, Laurie skillfully navigates his character’s contrasting relationship with his more carefree wife, providing moments of humor and depth that enrich the overall story.
4
Catch-22 (2019)
Hugh Laurie as Major de Coverley
Adapted from Joseph Heller’s acclaimed novel, Catch-22 serves as a sharp satirical commentary on war. The miniseries follows a bewildered bombardier struggling to remain sane amidst the absurdities of military life during World War II.
Laurie’s portrayal of Major de Coverley might be understated, but his characterization captures the essence of authority and dysfunction in a military setting, contributing to the miniseries’ biting humor and commentary.
3
Veep (2015-2019)
Hugh Laurie as Sen. Thomas James
Veep, featuring Julia Louis-Dreyfus as the ambitious Selina Meyer, stands as one of the finest political satirical comedies, offering sharp and humorous insights into the world of American politics. Hugh Laurie makes a memorable impact as Senator Thomas James, whose complicated relationship with Selina adds a layer of intrigue and tension to the series.
His performances are consistently engaging, showcasing Laurie’s knack for humor while navigating the show’s political mines.
2
The Night Manager (2016)
Hugh Laurie as Richard Onslow Roper
In The Night Manager, a six-episode British spy thriller based on John le Carré’s novel, Laurie plays the charismatic yet dangerous arms dealer Richard Roper. The show follows Jonathan Pine, portrayed by Tom Hiddleston, as he infiltrates Roper’s operations, creating a tense and engaging narrative filled with unexpected twists.
Laurie’s duality of charm and menace makes his performance magnetic, highlighting one of the show’s key strengths—its ability to keep viewers captivated by the dynamics between the main characters.
1
House (2004-2012)
Hugh Laurie as Dr. Gregory House
Few medical dramas have reached the iconic status of House, which ran for eight seasons. The series delves into the complex and often bizarre world of medicine through the lens of Dr. Gregory House, whose unconventional methods and sharp wit captivate audiences.
Laurie’s portrayal of House is often hailed as the pinnacle of his career, establishing him as a formidable force in television. His dynamic performance resonates as one of the most intricate character studies in the genre, earning him widespread acclaim and a devoted fan following.