Domhnall Gleeson: Biography, Roles, and Family | Irish Actor

There’s something quietly magnetic about an actor who appears in a Harry Potter blockbuster, a Star Wars sequel, and a Richard Curtis rom-com without ever seeming to repeat himself. Domhnall Gleeson has done exactly that, building a career that spans indie dramas, sci-fi franchises, and literary adaptations.

Born: 12 May 1983 ·
Nationality: Irish ·
Known For: Bill Weasley in Harry Potter ·
Notable Film: About Time (2013) ·
Father: Brendan Gleeson (actor)

Six key biographical facts, one pattern: Gleeson’s career moves between franchise blockbusters and intimate character studies, rarely settling in one lane.

Who did Domhnall Gleeson play in Harry Potter?

Domhnall Gleeson played Bill Weasley, the eldest son of Arthur and Molly Weasley, across the final two Harry Potter films — Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 (2010) and Part 2 (2011), according to his IMDb Biography. Bill is a curse-breaker for Gringotts Wizarding Bank who marries Fleur Delacour and later fights in the Battle of Hogwarts.

What is Domhnall Gleeson’s most famous role?

While his Harry Potter role gives him global recognition, many critics and audiences point to Tim Lake in the 2013 rom-com About Time as his most beloved performance. The film, directed by Richard Curtis, casts him as a young man who can travel back in time to improve his relationships. As Fandango notes, the role remains one of his most widely associated credits.

• Bill Weasley in Harry Potter (2010–2011) — franchise recognition
• Tim Lake in About Time (2013) — lead role, critical darling

For fans of the Harry Potter franchise, it’s worth noting that the actor who played Mad-Eye Moody, Michael Gambon, also left a lasting legacy. Michael Gambon: Biography, Death, Net Worth, and Legacy offers a deeper look at that actor’s career.

Is Domhnall Gleeson Irish?

Yes. Domhnall Gleeson is Irish, born in Dublin on 12 May 1983, as confirmed by the Golden Globes. His nationality is a core part of his public identity, and his career has deep roots in Irish film and stage.

Are Brendan Gleeson and Domhnall Gleeson related?

Yes — they are father and son. Brendan Gleeson, also an Irish actor, has starred in Braveheart, In Bruges, and the Harry Potter films as Alastor “Mad-Eye” Moody. According to the Golden Globes, Domhnall is the son of Brendan Gleeson. They both appear in the Harry Potter franchise, though in different roles and generations.

Who is Domhnall Gleeson’s father?

His father is Brendan Gleeson, the acclaimed Irish actor. This family tie has drawn public curiosity for years, but Domhnall has built a filmography that stands apart from his father’s, appearing in more sci-fi and fantasy projects while also taking on literary adaptations like Anna Karenina (2012).

The pattern: Domhnall’s career trajectory suggests a deliberate choice to avoid typecasting, moving from intimate character studies to billion-dollar franchises.

Is Domhnall Gleeson in a relationship?

Yes. Domhnall Gleeson is married to Juliette Bonass. The couple have children, though the exact number and details have not been publicly confirmed. Gleeson keeps his personal life notably private — a rarity for an actor of his profile.

Who is Domhnall Gleeson’s wife?

His wife is Juliette Bonass. Few details about her professional life or background appear in major entertainment databases, consistent with Gleeson’s general approach of keeping family matters out of the spotlight.

Does Domhnall Gleeson have children?

Reports indicate that Gleeson and Bonass have children, but the exact number and names remain unconfirmed in public records. This is listed as unclear in several biographical summaries.

What movies has Domhnall Gleeson appeared in?

Gleeson’s filmography spans more than two dozen feature films. Here is a selection of key roles across genres.

• Anna Karenina (2012) — Konstantin Levin (BookMyShow)
• About Time (2013) — Tim Lake (Fandango)
• Frank (2014) — Jon Burroughs (AlloCiné)
• Calvary (2014) — Freddie Joyce (AlloCiné)
• Ex Machina (2015) — Caleb
• Brooklyn (2015) — Jim Farrell (AlloCiné)
• The Revenant (2015) — Andrew Henry
• Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015) — General Hux (IMDb Biography)
• Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017) — General Hux
• Goodbye Christopher Robin (2017)
• Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019) — General Hux

A notable pattern in his career is repeated casting in prestige science-fiction and fantasy franchises alongside character-driven dramas and literary adaptations, as noted by IMDb Biography and Golden Globes.

For fans of the Star Wars sequel trilogy, understanding the broader timeline can enrich the viewing experience. Star Wars Watch Order & Jedi Trivia: Complete Guide (2025) provides a comprehensive overview.

Has Domhnall Gleeson appeared in Black Mirror?

Yes. He guest-starred in the Black Mirror episode “The Entire History of You” (2011), playing a character in a world where people can replay their own memories. The episode is one of the anthology series’ most acclaimed, and it predates his major film breakthrough.

Did Domhnall Gleeson appear in a Taylor Swift music video?

Yes. Gleeson appeared in Taylor Swift’s music video for “The Last Great American Dynasty” (2020), playing the husband of the song’s subject, Rebekah Harkness. The video marked a surprise crossover moment for the actor and drew significant media attention.

What awards has Domhnall Gleeson won?

Gleeson has received several award nominations. While he has not won major individual acting Oscars or BAFTAs, he has been recognized by the Irish Film & Television Academy and has been part of ensemble casts nominated for Screen Actors Guild Awards, including The Revenant.

What was Domhnall Gleeson’s first acting role?

Gleeson’s early screen work includes the 2001 television mini-series Rebel Heart, according to BookMyShow. His feature-film debut is listed as Boy Eats Girl (2005). Before those, he performed in Irish stage productions, building a foundation in live theatre.

When was Domhnall Gleeson born?

Domhnall Gleeson was born on 12 May 1983 in Dublin, Ireland, as recorded by Golden Globes.

“Domhnall Gleeson played Bill Weasley in the Harry Potter film franchise, specifically across 2010–2011.”

IMDb Biography

“He is widely associated with the role of Tim Lake in About Time (2013).”

Fandango

The pattern: Gleeson’s career moves from intimate character studies — Frank, Calvary, Brooklyn — to billion-dollar franchises, suggesting a deliberate strategy of variety over typecasting.

Domhnall Gleeson’s career exemplifies a deliberate crossing of genres, ensuring his name is remembered beyond any single franchise billing.

For a deeper look into his early life and lesser-known projects, you can read more about Domhnall Gleesons career and personal life.

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