Daryl McCormack is a critically acclaimed Irish actor best known for his breakout leading role in the 2022 film Good Luck to You, Leo Grande and his portrayal of Isaiah Jesus in the hit BBC series Peaky Blinders. As of early 2026, McCormack has solidified his status as an A-list talent, recently starring in the blockbuster Twisters (2024) and joining the elite ensemble cast of Rian Johnson’s Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery (2025). He is currently making waves for his upcoming portrayal of Mr. Bingley in Netflix’s highly anticipated 2026 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, further showcasing his range across period drama and contemporary thrillers.
Early Life and Background
Daryl McCormack was born on January 22, 1993, in Nenagh, County Tipperary, Ireland. He is the son of an Irish mother, Theresa McCormack, and an African-American father, Alfred Thomas, who is originally from Baltimore; his parents met in California before his mother returned to Ireland to raise him as a single parent.
Growing up in Nenagh, McCormack’s interest in the arts was piqued early through local theater and school productions. He has often spoken about his “unique bi-racial perspective” in rural Ireland, which has influenced his artistic sensitivity. To pursue acting professionally, he moved to Dublin to study at the TU Dublin Conservatoire (formerly DIT Conservatory of Music and Drama) and the renowned Gaiety School of Acting, graduating in 2014.
Breakout Television Roles
McCormack’s television career began with the long-running Irish soap opera Fair City, where he played Pierce Devlin from 2015 to 2016. However, it was his transition to British television that brought him into the global spotlight.
Peaky Blinders and Global Recognition
In 2019, McCormack joined the fifth season of the BBC’s Peaky Blinders, taking over the role of Isaiah Jesus from Jordan Bolger. As a close associate of the Shelby family, his character became more prominent in the sixth and final season (2022), allowing McCormack to showcase a gritty, period-authentic performance that caught the eye of international casting directors.
Bad Sisters and Apple TV+
Following the success of Peaky Blinders, he starred as Matthew Claffin in Sharon Horgan’s dark comedy-thriller Bad Sisters (2022). His performance as the conflicted insurance investigator who falls for Becka Garvey (Eve Hewson) added a layer of emotional complexity to the show, which went on to win a Peabody Award and earn widespread acclaim for its second season in late 2024.
Film Career and Awards
The year 2022 marked a seismic shift in McCormack’s career with the release of Good Luck to You, Leo Grande, where he starred opposite Academy Award winner Emma Thompson.
The Leo Grande Effect: Playing the titular role of a compassionate male sex worker, McCormack received a nomination for the BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role.
Rising Star Award: His rapid ascent earned him a nomination for the EE BAFTA Rising Star Award in 2023, an honor previously bestowed upon actors like Tom Hardy and Daniel Kaluuya.
Trophée Chopard: In 2023, he was honored with the Trophée Chopard at the Cannes Film Festival, a prestigious award recognizing the most promising young talents in world cinema.
Upcoming Projects in 2026
As of 2026, Daryl McCormack’s schedule is packed with high-profile releases that span multiple genres, confirming his position as a leading man in both film and television.
Pride and Prejudice (2026): McCormack is set to star as Mr. Bingley in Netflix’s major new adaptation of the Jane Austen classic. Fans are eagerly anticipating his take on the wealthy and affable friend of Mr. Darcy.
Cry to Heaven: He is currently filming a leading role in this adaptation of the Anne Rice novel, a project that highlights his ability to tackle dense, historical narratives.
Rogue Trooper: McCormack will provide the voice of Helm in the upcoming animated feature based on the famous comic book character, directed by Duncan Jones.
I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning: A gritty upcoming drama from director Clio Barnard, where he plays the lead character, Conor.
Theatrical Roots and Stage Credits
Despite his massive on-screen success, McCormack remains dedicated to live theater, having made his West End debut in 2018 in Martin McDonagh’s The Lieutenant of Inishmore.
He has frequently returned to the stage to sharpen his craft, most notably starring as Jamie Tyrone Jr. in the 2024 production of Long Day’s Journey Into Night at Wyndham’s Theatre. His theatrical background also includes classical roles such as Romeo in Romeo and Juliet at the Gate Theatre and the title role in Othello at Theatre Royal Waterford, performances that critics cited for their “magnetic intensity” and “commanding stage presence.”
Practical Information for Fans
For those following Daryl McCormack’s career or looking to catch his latest work, here are the essential details for 2026.
Where to Watch: His major films are available on Netflix (Knives Out 3, Pride and Prejudice), Disney+ (Twisters), and Apple TV+ (Bad Sisters).
Social Media: While relatively private, he is active on Instagram (@_darylmccormack), where he shares photography and updates on his projects.
Representation: He is represented by Independent Talent Group in the UK and WME (William Morris Endeavor) in the United States.
Awards Season: Keep an eye on the 2026 awards cycle for his performance in Wake Up Dead Man, which is expected to be a major contender in the comedy/ensemble categories.
FAQs
How old is Daryl McCormack?
Daryl McCormack was born on January 22, 1993, making him 33 years old as of early 2026.
Where is Daryl McCormack from?
He was born in Nenagh, County Tipperary, Ireland. He holds dual Irish and American citizenship.
Who did Daryl McCormack play in Peaky Blinders?
He played Isaiah Jesus, a member of the Peaky Blinders gang and the son of Jeremiah Jesus, appearing in seasons 5 and 6.
Is Daryl McCormack in the new Knives Out movie?
Yes, he plays the character Cyrus “Cy” Draven in Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, released in 2025.
What is Daryl McCormack’s role in Pride and Prejudice?
He has been cast as Mr. Bingley in the 2026 Netflix adaptation of the Jane Austen novel.
Did Daryl McCormack win a BAFTA?
He was nominated for two BAFTAs in 2023 (Best Leading Actor and Rising Star) but did not win. However, he won the Trophée Chopard at Cannes in 2023.
Was Daryl McCormack in Star Wars?
No, but he famously came very close to being cast as Finn in The Force Awakens (2015), a role that eventually went to John Boyega.
Who are Daryl McCormack’s parents?
His mother is Theresa McCormack, an Irishman from Tipperary, and his father is Alfred Thomas, an African-American from Baltimore.
Does Daryl McCormack have any upcoming theater roles?
As of early 2026, he has not announced a return to the stage following his 2024 run in Long Day’s Journey Into Night, as he is currently focusing on film and TV.
What is Daryl McCormack’s height?
Daryl McCormack is approximately 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) tall.
What was Daryl McCormack’s first role?
His first professional screen role was Pierce Devlin in the Irish soap Fair City in 2015
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