Top 10 Movies and TV Shows Featuring Theo James

Theo James has carved out a diverse niche in film and television, showcasing his talents across a variety of genres, from heartfelt coming-of-age stories to intense sci-fi thrillers. Though he celebrated his 40th birthday in 2024, many still regard him as relatively new to Hollywood, largely due to his breakthrough role in The Divergent Series, which coincided with his 30th birthday. The success of this franchise catapulted him into the limelight, paving the way for an eclectic array of subsequent roles.

Before his ascent to fame, James had notable roles, including a significant part as David in Underworld: Awakening and its sequel. Since then, he has expanded his portfolio, engaging in voice acting in popular series like Castlevania and X-Men ’97, in addition to dramatic performances in projects such as The Gentlemen and The White Lotus.

10 The Time Traveler’s Wife (2022)

Henry DeTamble

Based on Audrey Niffenegger’s acclaimed 2003 novel, The Time Traveler’s Wife was reimagined as a streaming series by HBO in 2022. This science fiction narrative revolves around Henry DeTamble, portrayed by Theo James, who experiences uncontrollable time travel due to a genetic disorder. The storyline intricately weaves his life with that of Clare, played by Rose Leslie, who encounters older versions of Henry and learns of their destined future together.

Despite mixed reviews for the series, James and Leslie’s performances garnered commendation. While the show developed a devoted fanbase, it ultimately faced cancellation from HBO after one season, despite efforts from fans to revive it through petitions.

9 Underworld: Awakening (2012)

David

The Underworld series continued to evolve with Awakening, accentuating Kate Beckinsale’s return as Selene, following the exit of her romantic counterpart, Michael. James stepped into the role of David, a determined vampire on a mission to locate Selene and assist her in protecting a unique hybrid child, their daughter born during her cryogenic imprisonment.

The new installment shifted the narrative landscape; vampires and Lycans were now publicly known and on the brink of extinction. Although it received less acclaim than its predecessors, this film delivered the anticipated action sequences that fans had come to love.

8 Golden Boy (2012-2013)

Walter William Clark Jr.

Golden Boy marked one of Theo James’ early ventures in television, airing for a single season on CBS. The crime drama chronicles the rapid ascent of Walter Clark, played by James, from a rookie officer to New York City’s youngest Police Commissioner, all by the age of just 27. The narrative alternates between his police detective days and flash-forwards to his more complex life ahead.

Tragically, the show was cut short by CBS after just one season, despite receiving mostly positive reviews, denying viewers the chance to witness Clark’s complete evolution into a police leader.

7 The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance (2019)

Rek’yr

Thirty-seven years after Jim Henson’s original film, The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance graced screens as a prequel series. Centered around three Gelflings—Rian, Deet, and Brea—the tale follows their quest to unite factions against the villainous Skeksis. This ambitious endeavor garnered near-universal acclaim from audiences and critics alike.

Theo James lent his voice to Rek’yr, a Sandmaster of the Southern Xeric. Featuring a stellar cast, including Taron Egerton and Anya Taylor-Joy, the series was highly regarded but unfortunately canceled by Netflix after a single season.

6 The Gentlemen (2024)

Eddie Horniman

Directed by Guy Ritchie in 2019, The Gentlemen followed marijuana mogul Mikey Pearson, portrayed by Matthew McConaughey, as he navigated a treacherous landscape of rival gangs. In 2024, Ritchie adapted the story into a Netflix series where Theo James took on the lead role of Eddie Horniman, inheriting a cannabis empire marked by familial legacy and mounting threats.

This fresh take on the narrative received favorable reviews and impressive viewership, prompting Netflix to greenlight a second season, alongside earning three Primetime Emmy nominations.

5 Divergent (2014)

Tobias “Four” Eaton

Theo James starred as Tobias “Four” Eaton in all three films of The Divergent Series, which adapted Veronica Roth’s novels. The story unfolds in a dystopian society where individuals must select their faction based on virtues, amidst a backdrop of political unrest. James’ character becomes integral in aiding heroine Tris, played by Shailene Woodley, in the battle against oppressive societal norms.

Year	Movie
2014	The Divergent Series
2015	The Divergent Series: Insurgent
2016	The Divergent Series: Allegiant

Although the planned fourth installment was shelved, the series solidified his status as a leading man, earning him the Teen Choice Award for Choice Movie Actor: Action.

4 Castlevania (2018-2022)

Hector

James secured a key voice role in Netflix’s critically acclaimed animated series Castlevania, based on the classic video game franchise. The series showcases an epic battle against Count Dracula, as characters like Trevor Belmont and Alucard strive to end his reign of terror.

Joining the cast in its second season, Theo James voiced Hector, a Devil Forgemaster with the pivotal ability to create creatures from the dead to serve Dracula. His complex storyline, particularly his relationship with Lenore, stood out vividly amid the series’ acclaim.

3 The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf (2021)

Bad luck

In an exciting addition to the Witcher franchise, James voiced Vesemir in The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf, an animated film set decades before the live-action series starring Henry Cavill. This origin story chronicles Vesemir’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a distinguished monster hunter.

The film received universal acclaim, achieving a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and earning an Annie Award nomination, highlighting its engaging storytelling.

2 The White Lotus (2022)

Cameron Sullivan

The pinnacle of Theo James’ television career (up to this point) arrived in 2022 with his role in The White Lotus during its second season. James portrayed Cameron Sullivan, a cunning investments manager tangled in a web of relationships and deceit alongside his wife and a newly wealthy friend. The season unfolded with heightened drama and suspense, captivating audiences and critics alike.

The second season garnered high praise with a 94% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and received 23 Primetime Emmy nominations. James himself was nominated multiple times, ultimately contributing to the ensemble’s win at the SAG Awards for Outstanding Performance in a Drama Series.

1 X-Men ‘97 (2024)

Bastion

The most significant role in Theo James’ career to date is arguably in the animated series X-Men ‘97, which premiered in 2024 as a sequel to the beloved 1990s series. The new installment dives back into the fight against social injustice, continuing Stan Lee’s vision of the X-Men’s legacy.

James voices Bastion, a principal antagonist designed by the fearsome mutant-hunting machine, Nimrod. His character represents a pivotal challenge for the X-Men, elevating the stakes in a narrative that has received a stellar 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, showcasing James’ contribution to an iconic franchise.

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