Rory Keenan: The Irish Actor's Movies, TV Shows, & Wife Gemma!

Ally Labadie 10 May 2025

Ever wondered what it takes to conquer both the stage and the screen? Rory Keenan, the multifaceted Irish actor, has not only done that but has also carved a unique path across theatre, film, and television, captivating audiences with his versatile performances.

From the gritty streets of "Peaky Blinders" to the historical landscapes of "War & Peace," Keenan's presence is magnetic. A true chameleon, he seamlessly transitions between genres and roles, proving his mettle as one of the most compelling actors of his generation. His dedication to his craft, combined with his undeniable talent, has made him a sought-after performer both in London's prestigious West End and in the world of film and television.

Category	Information
Full Name	Rory Keenan
Date of Birth	9 June 1980
Nationality	Irish
Occupation	Actor, Writer, Director
Spouse	Gemma Arterton (m. 2019)
Education	BA, College of the Holy Cross
Known For	"Peaky Blinders," "War & Peace," "The Guard," "Ella Enchanted"
Stage Work	Extensive experience in London's West End and beyond, performing leading roles.
Other Skills	FINRA General Securities Registered Representative (Series 7, 63)
Reference	Rory Keenan IMDB Profile

Born on 9 June 1980, Rory Keenan's journey began in Ireland, but his ambition and talent quickly propelled him onto the international stage. He honed his skills in theatre, becoming a regular fixture in London's competitive theatre scene. His stage presence is undeniable, captivating audiences with powerful performances in leading roles. But Keenan's talents extend far beyond the stage; he has seamlessly transitioned into film and television, earning critical acclaim for his diverse portrayals.

Keenan's filmography showcases his versatility. He is known for the role of Otto in Ella Enchanted (comedy fantasy) in 2004, aidan mcbride in the guard (crime thriller) in 2011, and james thurbeck in the brothers grimsby (adventure action) in 2016. Whether he's portraying a menacing gangster, a conflicted soldier, or a charismatic hero, Keenan brings depth and nuance to every role.

His appearance in "Peaky Blinders" solidified his reputation as a formidable character actor. As Donal Henry, Keenan brought a simmering intensity to the screen, portraying a man who loathed Thomas Shelby and struggled to contain his anger during their meetings. The dynamic between Henry and Shelby, often playing out in tense encounters at the rival pub, "The Black," added another layer of intrigue to the series.

Beyond "Peaky Blinders," Keenan's television credits include notable roles in "War & Peace" (2016), "Birdsong," "Somewhere Boy," and "Versailles." He is also set to appear in the upcoming HBO series "The Regime," further expanding his reach and showcasing his talent to a global audience. Each of these roles has allowed him to explore different facets of the human condition, demonstrating his ability to embody characters from diverse backgrounds and time periods.

His role in Blackshore is 2024 irish crime drama series directed by datha keane, starring lisa dwan and rory keenan and was broadcast on rt one from 4 february 2024.

Keenan's film work is equally impressive, with appearances in "Reign of Fire" (2002), "The Guard" (2011), "Grimsby," "Ella Enchanted," "The Duchess," "The Young Messiah," and "The Crush." In The Guard, Rory Keenan portrayed the character of Aidan McBride. This diverse range of roles demonstrates his ability to navigate different genres and work with some of the industry's most talented directors and actors.

In addition to his acting career, Keenan is also a writer and director. This further demonstrates his commitment to the craft and his desire to explore different aspects of storytelling. It's clear that Keenan is not content to simply perform; he is driven to create and contribute to the art form in multiple ways.

Adding to his personal story, Rory Keenan is married to the acclaimed actress Gemma Arterton. The couple tied the knot in a private ceremony at Ballybeg House in County Wicklow, Ireland, in September 2019. Arterton, known for her roles in films like "Quantum of Solace," confirmed in 2023 that they had welcomed their first child, a son, delighting fans and adding another chapter to their lives.

Gemma Arterton shared the joyous news on Zoe Ball's BBC Radio 2 breakfast show, revealing that their son was born late last year. The couple had managed to keep the pregnancy and birth private, surprising many with the announcement. This new chapter in their lives has undoubtedly brought them immense joy and further solidified their bond.

Before embarking on his acting career, Rory Keenan received a BA from the College of the Holy Cross. Interestingly, he also holds a FINRA General Securities Registered Representative (Series 7, 63) certification. This seemingly unrelated qualification highlights Keenan's diverse interests and his ability to excel in different fields. It also suggests a well-rounded individual with a strong work ethic and a commitment to personal and professional development.

While Keenan's professional life continues to flourish, his personal life has also become a source of inspiration. His marriage to Gemma Arterton and the arrival of their son have brought a new dimension to his life. The couple's shared passion for the arts and their commitment to each other create a supportive and loving environment, allowing them to thrive both individually and as a family.

For those interested in connecting with Rory Keenan, various online platforms offer avenues to explore his work and follow his career. While he may not have a prominent presence on all social media channels, fans can find information and updates about his projects through professional platforms like IMDb and industry news outlets. Facebook also features profiles of people named Rory Keenan, although it's important to verify the authenticity of these accounts.

For those seeking to book Rory Keenan for speaking engagements or other professional appearances, it's essential to contact his agent and provide all necessary details. This includes the event date, location (or virtual platform), and the topic or purpose of the engagement. By providing this information upfront, you can ensure a smooth and successful booking process.

Rory Keenan's career is a testament to his talent, hard work, and versatility. He has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with, captivating audiences with his performances on stage, in film, and on television. As he continues to explore new roles and challenges, it's clear that his star will only continue to rise. Whether he's portraying a complex character in a historical drama or a menacing villain in a crime thriller, Keenan brings a unique blend of charisma and intensity to every role, solidifying his place as one of the most compelling actors of his generation.

His journey is not just one of professional success, but also one of personal fulfillment. His marriage to Gemma Arterton and the birth of their son have added a new dimension to his life, providing him with a sense of purpose and joy that extends beyond his career. As he continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come his way, Rory Keenan remains an inspiration to aspiring actors and a testament to the power of talent, hard work, and dedication.

So, whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his work, be sure to keep an eye on Rory Keenan. With his talent, versatility, and unwavering commitment to his craft, he is sure to continue captivating audiences for years to come. And as he takes on new roles and challenges, we can all look forward to witnessing the continued evolution of this remarkable Irish actor.

His recent projects showcase his continuous evolution as an actor. Keenan starred in Blackshore, an Irish crime drama series released in 2024. Directed by Datha Keane and featuring Lisa Dwan, the series was broadcast on RT One starting February 4, 2024, adding another compelling performance to Keenan's growing list of credits.

Rory Keenan's portrayal of Donal Henry in "Peaky Blinders" remains a standout role, capturing the character's simmering resentment and palpable tension with Thomas Shelby. Similarly, his theater work continues to earn him accolades. His performances in London's West End underscore his dedication to the stage, where he regularly takes on leading roles, demonstrating his range and ability to command an audience. From his early work in "Reign of Fire" to his more recent projects, Keenan's career is a journey through diverse characters and genres, proving his commitment to the art of storytelling.

Furthermore, Keenan's versatility extends to writing and directing, allowing him to explore the creative process from different angles. This multi-faceted approach not only enriches his performances but also enhances his understanding of the industry, making him a well-rounded and sought-after artist. His education at the College of the Holy Cross and his FINRA certification reflect a diverse set of interests and capabilities, underscoring his commitment to both personal and professional growth.

In summary, Rory Keenan's career is a testament to his talent, dedication, and versatility. From his early roles to his recent projects, he has consistently delivered compelling performances that captivate audiences. His marriage to Gemma Arterton and their recent parenthood add a personal dimension to his public persona, creating a well-rounded and inspiring figure in the entertainment industry. As he continues to take on new challenges and explore different aspects of storytelling, Rory Keenan remains a force to be reckoned with, promising even greater achievements in the years to come.