James Nelson-Joyce is fast becoming one of the most recognisable faces on British television. With his gritty performances, authentic Scouse charm, and a string of high-profile roles, the Liverpool-born actor is capturing the attention of audiences and critics alike. From his breakout in hard-hitting dramas to his recent leading roles and even speculation about him becoming the first Scouse James Bond, Nelson-Joyce’s journey is a testament to talent, resilience, and a deep connection to his roots.
Early Life: From Liverpool’s Streets to the Small Screen
Born in Orrell Park, Liverpool, in 1989, James Nelson-Joyce grew up in a working-class family. His path to acting was far from conventional. He left school without qualifications, not realising at the time that he was dyslexic. It was his English teacher, Miss Griffiths, who first recognised his potential and encouraged him to pursue acting at The City of Liverpool College. Nelson-Joyce credits this early support for setting him on a path that would eventually see him starring in some of the UK’s most acclaimed dramas.
Breakout Roles and Rise to Prominence
Nelson-Joyce’s first major break came in 2017 with ITV’s Little Boy Blue, where he played James Yates, a teenage gang member involved in the tragic death of Rhys Jones. The role established him as a compelling screen presence, able to bring nuance and depth to even the most challenging characters.
He continued to build his reputation with roles in The Nest, Time, and The Outlaws, often cast as tough or villainous figures but always imbuing them with humanity. His performance in the BBC’s Time, alongside Sean Bean and Stephen Graham, was particularly praised for its intensity and realism. Nelson-Joyce has spoken openly about his tendency to play intimidating characters, noting that he is “the complete opposite” in real life—a sensitive person who values loyalty and friendship.
Leading Man: This City Is Ours and A Thousand Blows
2025 has been a landmark year for Nelson-Joyce. He took on his first major leading role in the BBC drama This City Is Ours, playing Michael Kavanagh, a trusted enforcer and surrogate son to crime boss Ronnie Phelan (Sean Bean). The series, set and filmed in Liverpool, has been hailed as the “Scouse Sopranos,” drawing comparisons to iconic crime dramas for its complex characters and authentic portrayal of the city’s underworld.
Michael’s story is one of conflict—caught between loyalty to his criminal family and a desire for a more honest life with his partner Diana. The show explores themes of masculinity, vulnerability, and the struggle for redemption, with Nelson-Joyce delivering a performance that moves seamlessly between violence and tenderness. The series has been a hit with viewers, prompting the BBC to commission a second season, much to the delight of fans and the actor himself.
At the same time, Nelson-Joyce starred in A Thousand Blows, a bare-knuckle boxing drama set in Victorian London, where he played Edward ‘Treacle’ Goodson alongside Stephen Graham. The role required intense physical preparation and showcased his commitment to authenticity, both in the ring and on screen.
From Crime Dramas to Black Mirror
Nelson-Joyce’s range as an actor is evident in his diverse body of work. In addition to crime dramas, he has appeared in the acclaimed anthology series Black Mirror, the historical series The Gold, and the Disney+ production A Town Called Malice. His ability to inhabit complex, often morally ambiguous characters has made him a sought-after talent in the industry.
He has also won critical acclaim for his work in independent film, including a Best Actor award at the Florence International Film Festival in 2024 for his performance in Reputation. Collaborations with directors like Andrea Arnold and Lena Headey have further cemented his reputation as a versatile and compelling performer.
The Next James Bond? Nelson-Joyce’s Ambitions
In recent months, James Nelson-Joyce has found himself at the centre of speculation about the next James Bond. Unlike many actors who shy away from such rumours, he has embraced the idea, declaring his ambition to become the first Scouse Bond. He has even joked about delivering the iconic lines in his native accent, bringing a fresh twist to the legendary role. Bookmakers currently list him as a genuine contender, with odds of 6/1 to take over from Daniel Craig, as Amazon prepares to produce the next Bond film.
For Nelson-Joyce, the prospect of playing Bond is both thrilling and daunting. He acknowledges the legacy of the role and the unique challenges it presents, but his openness and enthusiasm have only fuelled public interest. Beyond Bond, he has expressed a desire to portray Manchester United legend George Best, reflecting his passion for both acting and football.
Liverpool Roots and Personal Growth
Despite his rising profile, Nelson-Joyce remains deeply connected to Liverpool. Filming This City Is Ours on familiar streets, surrounded by family and friends, was a source of pride and inspiration. He has spoken about the importance of showing off his city and using his accent in projects, challenging stereotypes and celebrating Merseyside’s rich cultural heritage.
His journey from class clown to acclaimed actor is a story of perseverance, self-discovery, and the transformative power of encouragement. Nelson-Joyce’s willingness to embrace vulnerability, both on and off screen, has resonated with audiences and made him a role model for aspiring actors, particularly those from working-class backgrounds.
What’s Next for James Nelson-Joyce?
With a second season of This City Is Ours confirmed, a growing list of film and television credits, and the possibility of stepping into the shoes of 007, James Nelson-Joyce’s star shows no sign of fading. As he continues to take on challenging roles and break new ground, he remains an actor to watch—one who brings authenticity, passion, and a touch of Scouse wit to everything he does.
Whether he’s portraying a conflicted gangster, a Victorian boxer, or perhaps even the world’s most famous spy, James Nelson-Joyce is redefining what it means to be a leading man in British drama. His story is proof that talent, honesty, and a strong sense of identity can take you from Liverpool’s streets to the very top of the industry.
