Except for the ending, there are many things to thank Game of Thrones for. One of them is introducing us to many excellent actors, including Richard Madden. His latest show opposite Priyanka Chopra, Citadel, is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
With the Russo Brothers as executive producers, this show follows two agents of a spy organization named Citadel whose memories have been wiped out. But their lives are in danger because the competing spy agency, Manticore, wants their hands on sensitive information, and they are willing to kill for it.
Raised in Elderslie, Renfrewshire, Scotland, Richard Madden has been acting since he was just 11 years old. While Robb Stark remains his most popular role, there are many other television shows where he truly shines as an actor.
TV Shows
While Game of Thrones is arguably one of the best shows Richard Madden has been in, there are several others you should check out.
Bodyguard
In just six episodes, Madden delivers a performance that will bring you to tears. He plays David Budd, a war-veteran suffering from PTSD from his time in Afghanistan. Budd is assigned to protect a politician whose principles do not match his own.
Madden sincerely portrays Budd’s inner conflict while doing his duty, fighting between what he thinks is right and what he is ordered to do.
From the raw vulnerability displayed in moments of emotional turmoil to the unwavering determination in high-stakes action sequences, Madden’s portrayal of David Budd was nothing short of captivating.
The show is unpredictable and will cause a bit of heartache, and the storyline makes it worth the watch.
Bodyguard gave Madden a platform to truly put his abilities on the big stage, which brought him a ton of critical acclaim and a Golden Globe award.
Medici
The first season of the show on Netflix, titled Medici: Masters of Florence, stars Madden in the lead role as Cosimo de’ Medici. In 1429, the story follows how Cosimo has to fight external forces to ensure his family bank retains its place as the most powerful bank in Florence after his father’s death.
Based on a true story and real people, Madden captured the essence of this historical figure with great authenticity.
Richard Madden flawlessly embodied the complexities of Cosimo de’ Medici’s character. He portrayed a man driven by ambition, intellect, and an unwavering determination to build the Medici dynasty.
His portrayal skillfully showcased the struggles and challenges Cosimo faced as he navigated the treacherous political landscape of Renaissance Florence, Italy.
With a mysterious murder included in the storyline, this show makes for an engaging watch for people who love historical and political thrillers.
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Sirens
Here, Madden showed that he doesn’t just have to stick to playing the stern, quiet, and mysterious characters. In this comedy revolving around British paramedics, he plays Ashley Greenwick, a gay man with a cheeky sense of humor.
The show only lasted for one season. But, it was a breath of fresh air watching Madden explore roles outside of what he is known for and prove his versatility.
Klondike
This 3-episode miniseries produced by Discovery Channel takes place in 1897. It follows real-life characters Bill Haskell and his best friend Byron Epstein on an adventurous and harsh journey trying to profit from the Gold Rush.
It is based on the book Gold Diggers: Striking It Rich in the Klondike by Charlotte Gray.
In “Klondike,” Madden portrayed the determined and resilient adventurer Bill Haskell. He embarks on a treacherous journey to the Yukon in search of gold.
With his characteristic intensity, Madden brought depth and authenticity to the character, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the harsh realities of the Klondike Gold Rush.
From the excitement of striking gold to the despair of facing danger and hardship, Madden captured the complex layers of his character’s experiences.
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Movies
Rocketman
Through a blend of vibrant musical performances and intimate storytelling, Rocketman is a biopic that delves into the emotional highs and lows of Elton John’s life. It showcases his transformative musical career and the personal demons he overcame to find his true identity and artistic voice.
Richard Madden portrayed the character of John Reid, who was Elton John’s manager and lover in the film.
John Reid is portrayed as a manipulative and controlling figure who has a significant impact on Elton John’s life and career trajectory. Madden’s performance was widely praised by critics and audiences.
This was one of the few roles where we see him playing the “bad guy,” and he aces it. The film took home an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Eternals
Eternals marks Richard Madden’s entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The movie follows a group of immortal alien beings known as the Eternals who have been living on Earth secretly for thousands of years, protecting humanity from a monstrous race called the Deviants.
Richard Madden portrays the character Ikaris. Ikaris is one of the central members of the Eternals and serves as their de facto leader. He possesses superhuman strength, durability, and the ability to project cosmic energy beams from his eyes.
But as the movie progresses, he completely disagrees with how his team approaches the main crisis of the movie, and he will go to any lengths to stop them. His arc from the leader to the antagonist is thrilling to watch.
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Bastille Day
Bastille Day is a 2016 action thriller film in which Richard Madden plays a pivotal role. The movie revolves around a young pickpocket named Michael Mason, portrayed by Richard Madden.
Mason becomes unwittingly involved in a terrorist plot in Paris, leading to him being pursued by both the police and the terrorists.
Acting alongside Idris Elba, portraying a CIA Agent, this movie is action-packed with great performances. He captures the essence of an ordinary individual forced to confront extraordinary circumstances, displaying vulnerability and resilience throughout the film.
But overall, the movie did not do well at the box office and was criticized for its mediocre storytelling and plot.
1917
1917 is a war film that was one of the most critically acclaimed films of 2019, with 10 Academy Award nominations. Directed by Sam Mendes, the story follows two soldiers on a critical mission during World War I.
They must deliver a message deep into enemy territory to prevent a deadly ambush. It could potentially save the lives of 1,600 soldiers, including Blake’s own brother.
Richard Madden portrays the character of Lieutenant Joseph Blake. Although his screen time is brief, his performance adds tension and realism to the movie.
Lieutenant Blake is a fellow officer in the British army. He provides critical information to Lance Corporal Schofield, one of the film’s main characters, regarding the urgent mission they undertake.
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Cinderella
In Disney’s Cinderella, Richard Madden’s Prince Kit is a kind and compassionate character who is searching for true love. He becomes enamored with Cinderella, played by Lily James, after a chance encounter at the royal ball.
The Prince is determined to find the mysterious young woman who captured his heart. This eventually led to the iconic glass slipper search.
The film received positive reviews for its lavish production design, stunning visuals, and strong performances.
His portrayal adds so much charm and authenticity to the character, making him a memorable and integral part of the beloved fairy tale adaptation.
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