Alun Armstrong: From New Tricks to Stage Legend

Alun Armstrong, a distinguished actor with a career spanning stage and screen, is widely recognized for his role as Brian Lane in the crime drama New Tricks. This beloved series aired on BBC1 for over a decade, from 2003 to 2015, with Armstrong's character leaving in its tenth season.

Beyond his television work, Armstrong boasts an impressive stage career, including nine years with the Royal Shakespeare Company. His performance in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street earned him an Olivier Award. His other acting credits include "Black Beauty," "Sleepy Hollow," "Downton Abbey," and "Breeders."

Armstrong's personal life includes his marriage to Sue, whom he met while she was hitchhiking. They have three sons: Tom, Joe, and Dan. Armstrong has reflected on his past as a workaholic, regretting not being more present during his sons' upbringing.

Two of Armstrong's sons have entered the entertainment industry. Joe, a middle son, is an actor who has performed in stage productions like "Orphans" and appeared in the Oscar-winning film "Darkest Hour" and series such as "Gentleman Jack." Joe and Alun have shared the stage in productions like "A Passionate Woman."

His youngest son, Dan, pursued a career in music as the keyboardist and vocalist for the indie rock band Clock Opera, which was active until 2022. Armstrong has shown support for Dan's musical endeavors, even appearing in a music video for the band.