Martin Freeman Profile

Find out more about the actor who plays genius detective Sherlock Holmes' partner in solving crime, Dr. John Watson.

Martin Freeman

Early Career

Born 8th September 1971, Martin Freeman joined a youth theatre group at the age of 15, but it wasn't till he was 17 that he knew he wanted to pursue a career in acting.

Since attending the Central School of Speech and Drama Martin managed to secure a main acting role in The Office (2001) playing the part of Tim Canterbury. He also appeared in Sitcom Hardware in 2003 and several films such as Ali G Indahouse (2002).

Martin Freeman as Dr John Watson and Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes

Martin Freeman as Dr John Watson and Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes

On TV

Martin made his first appearance on screen in a minor part of The Bill in 1997. Since then he has gone on to appear in many TV shows such as his most known role in Sherlock Holmes (2010) as Dr. John Watson. His most recent roles on TV are as Lester Nygaard in TV series Fargo (2014).

On Film

Martin's big break into the film industry was in his early days of acting in 2002 when he played John in Love Actually. Since then he has gone on to star in his more notable films such as Hitchhickers Guide to the Galaxy (2005) and Nativity! (2009).

Martin's most recent role and most known role is in The Hobbit three part film as the main character Bilbo Baggins.