Wil Johnson – Profile

Full Name:

Wilbert Charles Johnson

Date of Birth:

18 April 1965

Place of Birth:

Muswell Hill, London, England

Profession:

Actor, Theatre Performer, Producer

Career Overview

Wil Johnson is a seasoned British actor with a career spanning over three decades across television, film, and theatre. Known for his commanding presence and emotional depth, he has become one of the most recognisable faces in UK drama.

He made his TV debut in the late 1980s and has since built an impressive body of work. Johnson is particularly known for his roles in ensemble drama series that highlight contemporary social issues, as well as for his work on stage in Shakespearean productions.

Theatre Work

Johnson is also celebrated for his Shakespearean performances, particularly with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) and various UK theatres. His stage roles include:

  • Othello (title role)

  • Macbeth

  • Hamlet

  • The Winter’s Tale

His work in theatre has been praised for blending classical training with raw emotional delivery.

Personal Life

  • Of Jamaican heritage.

  • Grew up in North London.

  • Married and a father of six children.

  • Passionate about supporting young actors and encouraging diversity in the arts.

wil main website

Notable TV Roles

  • Matt Beer in Waking the Dead (BBC One, 2000–2011) – A long-running role in the award-winning crime drama.

  • Steve Robinson in Babyfather (BBC, 2001–2002) – A cult favourite Black British drama series.

  • Mark Thompson in Emmerdale (ITV, 2012–2014).

  • DC Michael Trent in Waterloo Road (BBC).

  • Doctor/Various roles in Casualty (BBC).

  • Victor in Kingdom of Heaven (Film, 2005, directed by Ridley Scott).

  • Arturo “Artie” West in The Larkins (ITV, 2021–2022).

  • Joe in House of the Dragon (HBO, 2022) – part of the Game of Thrones prequel universe.

Style & Impact

Wil Johnson is respected as one of the UK’s most versatile Black actors. He moves seamlessly between TV soaps, gritty crime dramas, period pieces, and Shakespeare. His ability to embody both contemporary and classical characters has secured him a lasting place in British acting history.