Benedict Cumberbach, the actor who will co-star with “Wanted” star James McAvoy in the new TV show “Neverwhere”, is a British actor. He stunned the television viewing audience with his dramatic portrayal of the wildest Sherlock Holmes character in recent memory to the delight of fans of the BBC. After the show broadcast on the American Public Broadcasting System, his popularity exploded internationally. In the summer of 2013, he’s expected to take the world by storm as he’ll be starring in a feature role in what is sure to be a blockbuster movie. Playing the younger version of Captain James T. Kirk’s nemesis Khan in the upcoming Star Trek film, he’s certainly going to be a character people will love to hate. But before anyone in the United States tried to typecast him into playing bad-guy film roles for all eternity, it is probably smarter to get to know this interesting U.K. celeb’s off-screen personality better first. Why? Because looking at his life and career from the outside in, he appears to be a devout humanitarian.
The UK Independent reports that his latest project is to portray Julian Assange in a film about Wikileaks titled The Fifth Estate. But don’t think acting is his only gig. Cumberbach does extensive charity work as an ambassador for the Prince’s Trust. Last July 19, Radiotimes reported that his fans from all around the globe donated money in his name, to raise over £9,000.
He worked on a film festival for the Prince’s Trust last June, according to ContactMusic. The festival featured short films inspired by issues and events affecting young people who were designed to help boost teenagers’ confidence.
Last October, the good sport participated in a bike ride for the Palace-to-Palace bike ride, a trip of 45 miles. Prince Charles established the Prince’s Trust in 1976. The trust helps to improve the lives of disadvantaged young people in the UK.
According to Contactmusic, Cumberbach raised $32,000 for the charity saying, “The Prince’s Trust is a charity which I am passionate about helping. Young people are our future, and with so many struggling to find work in the U.K., I feel it’s vital we do everything we can to make sure all young people have the opportunities to succeed.”
He was born on July 19, 1976 to actors Timothy Carlton and Wanda Ventham. He was formally trained at Harrow, at Manchester University and at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. He appeared in such films as War Horse and Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy.
He and In the Thick of It actor Olivia Poulet dated for over 12 years before they split in 2010. Since then, he has dated designer Anna Jones.
But all of the celeb gossip about his personal life is not anywhere near as fascinating as the humanitarian good deeds he does for charity or the acting performance he gives when filming movies or shows for TV. Using his star power wisely to support childrens charities seems to be his favorite thing.