| Real Name: | Dominic Edward Cooper |
| Birthday: | June 2, 1978 |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Height: | 177 cm |
| Occupation: | English Actor, |
Dominic Edward Cooper, an English actor born on June 2, 1978, has carved a distinguished career in film and television, becoming particularly well-known for bringing comic book characters to life. He has most notably portrayed Jesse Custer in the AMC series “Preacher” from 2016 to 2019, and the character of young Howard Stark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His Howard Stark portrayal spans across films and television with prominent appearances in “Captain America: The First Avenger” and the ABC series “Agent Carter.”
In addition to his accomplishments in action and comic book adaptations, Cooper has also showcased his range with performances in film adaptations of stage works like “The History Boys” and in musicals such as “Mamma Mia!” His breadth of work exhibits his versatility, embracing roles in period dramas, musicals, and biographical films like “The Devil’s Double.” Whether on the big screen or television, Dominic Cooper’s presence has been a significant one in the entertainment industry in the United Kingdom and beyond.
Content Compass
Early Life and Education
Dominic Cooper’s early years were marked by his London upbringing and his eventual pursuit of a career in acting through formal dramatic training.
London Beginnings
Born on June 2, 1978, Dominic Edward Cooper was a native of Greenwich, London. He grew into a family where his mother, Julie, worked as a nursery school teacher, and his father, Brian, was an auctioneer. Cooper’s family life included two brothers, Simon and Nathan, as well as a half-brother, James, and a half-sister, Emma.
Dramatic Training
Cooper’s passion for acting led him to train at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA). This institution is renowned for its comprehensive training programs and has been instrumental in shaping the talents of many successful actors. Through his education at LAMDA, Cooper honed the skills necessary to embark on a professional acting career.
Theatrical Career
Dominic Cooper’s theatrical career began with promising roles at prestigious institutions and later expanded to international acclaim with a seamless transition from the West End to Broadway.
Stage Debut and Breakthrough
Cooper made his stage debut in 2001 at the Royal National Theatre in the play “Mother Clap’s Molly House.” His breakthrough came with the pivotal role of Dakin in “The History Boys,” a production of the Royal National Theatre which later transferred to the Royal Shakespeare Company. His performance received high praise and set the stage for further accomplishments.
West End to Broadway
The success of “The History Boys” propelled Cooper’s career from London’s West End to Broadway. In 2006, he was part of the original cast that brought the play across the Atlantic. The Broadway rendition of “The History Boys” not only solidified Cooper’s standing as a distinguished actor but also showed his versatility in performing on international stages.
Film and Television Successes
Dominic Cooper has made a significant impact in both the film and television industries, showcasing his versatility across various genres from blockbuster films to cult television series and compelling dramas.
Blockbuster Appearances
Dominic Cooper stepped into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as young Howard Stark in Captain America: The First Avenger, a role he reprised in the television series Agent Carter. His portrayal of Stark made a notable impression on the franchise, cementing Cooper’s place in blockbuster cinema.
Cult Television Series
Cooper took on the lead role of Jesse Custer in the AMC’s adaptation of the comic book series Preacher. His performance was a key factor in the show’s success, earning a following for its unique blend of dark comedy and supernatural elements.
Romantic Comedies and Dramas
Appearing in beloved romantic musicals like Mamma Mia! and its sequel Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, Cooper demonstrated his musical talents and was fundamental in the films’ international success. His roles in period pieces such as The Duchess and in compelling dramas like My Week with Marilyn and Miss You Already reveal his range and depth as an actor.
Personal Projects and Collaborations
In the spectrum of his career, Dominic Cooper has not only taken pivotal acting roles but has also engaged in various personal projects and collaborations, partnering with a range of fellow actors and diving into the world of executive production to shape the entertainment landscape.
Productions and Partnerships
Cooper has worked alongside a number of prestigious actors in his projects. He starred with Keira Knightley in “The Duchess” (2008), portraying Earl Grey. In the realm of musicals, Cooper reconnected with Amanda Seyfried in the renowned “Mamma Mia!” (2008) and its sequel “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again” (2018). Gemma Chan, another well-known British talent, joined Cooper in “Stratton” (2017), solidifying his versatility in casting partnerships.
Notable Collaborations:
- “The Duchess”: with Keira Knightley as Georgiana
- “Mamma Mia!”: featuring Amanda Seyfried as Sophie
- “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again”: reuniting with Seyfried
- “Stratton”: alongside Gemma Chan
Executive Productions
Transitioning into the realm of production, Cooper has expanded his impact in the entertainment industry. Although his executive production roles are more nuanced in his career arc, they signify a growing footprint in this arena.
Executive Production Credits:
- “That Dirty Black Bag” (Year): Cooper steps into the role of executive producer, contributing to this project’s creative vision.
Note: While the search results and public information up to 2023 suggested involvement in various projects, specific executive production credits for Dominic Cooper, particularly in relation to the mentioned entities like “Sky” or “James Corden,” may not be accurately reflected or could be pending updates beyond the knowledge cutoff date. This section will focus on the available accurate information up to the stated period.
Roles and Recognition
Dominic Cooper has earned significant critical recognition for his dynamic range in portraying a wide variety of characters across stage, film, and television. His noteworthy performances have often led to accolades and positive reception within the industry.
Critical Acclaim
Cooper gained considerable praise for his stage work when he originated the role of Dakin in the 2004 play “The History Boys.” His portrayal in both the West End production and the subsequent Broadway transfer showcased his ability to capture the nuances of his character, earning him and the ensemble widespread accolades. The play’s success was further amplified when it was adapted into a film, with Cooper reprising his role and solidifying his reputation as a talented actor.
Diverse Character Portrayal
| Medium | Character | Production | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Film | Howard Stark | Captain America: The First Avenger | Brought to life the charismatic inventor and father of Tony Stark. |
| Television | Jesse Custer | Preacher | Played the complex lead role, blending action and drama. |
| Theatre | Arthur McCoy | Reason unknown | Character specifics not provided. |
His versatility is highlightable through the bold characters he has embodied, such as Howard Stark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where his portrayal resonated with audiences for capturing the essence of Tony Stark’s father with charm and wit. In television, Cooper embraced the lead role of Jesse Custer in the AMC series “Preacher,” showcasing his ability to anchor a series with a presence that brought the graphic novel character to life. While not much is provided about Arthur McCoy, his track record suggests that this role, too, was likely performed with distinction and skill.