Kieran O'Brien - Actor Profile

Kieran O'Brien

Acting
Freshness: Jan 13, 2026
18Total Films
7.1 Highest Rated
Born: Jan 23, 1973
Birth Place: Oldham, Greater Manchester, UK

About Kieran O'Brien

O'Brien grew up in nearby Royton and was educated at the Bishop Henshaw Roman Catholic Memorial High School in Rochdale. He began acting at an early age and was the star of a BBC TV series Gruey by the time he was 15. He also featured in several other series at the time in one-off or recurring roles. In 1993, he played the role of Craig Lee in Coronation Street and then the role of Lee Jones in Children's Ward. In 1993 he also became a regular in the detective series, Cracker, playing Mark, the son of central character Robbie Coltrane. In 1999 he made his cinema debut with the film Virtual Sexuality and began a reunited with Cracker director Michael Winterbottom for 24 Hour Party People in 2002 and, in '04, for the controversial 9 Songs, which included scenes of genuine sexual intercourse between O'Brien and his leading lady Margo Stilley. His role had earned him the credit of being the only mainstream British actor who has been shown ejaculating in a mainstream UK-produced feature. Since 9 Songs, O'Brien has made two further films with Winterbottom; A Cock and Bull Story and The Look of Love. Recent regular TV roles include Holby Blue and The Syndicate.

Career Statistics & Market Influence

Analyzing the cinematic journey of Kieran O'Brien reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 18 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.

Genre Dominance: Drama

The majority of Kieran O'Brien's filmography leans towards the Drama genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.

The "Box Office" Signature

With a 33% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Kieran O'Brien remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in The Shock Doctrine, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.

Best Kieran O'Brien Movies Ranked

Must-watch hits from Kieran O'Brien's career based on audience ratings.

Complete Filmography & Success Status

Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Kieran O'Brien.

YearMovieCharacterSuccessMore
2021 The Following Year Ben Average Similar →
2018 Holmes & Watson PC Smalls Flop Similar →
2018 Peterloo Peter Wilkes, a Farrier Hit Similar →
2016 The Watchman Lee Simpson Average Similar →
2013 The Look of Love Jimmy Humphries Average Similar →
2012 Spike Island Poster Vendor Average Similar →
2009 The Shock Doctrine Narrator (Voice) Hit Similar →
2007 Goal II: Living the Dream Hughie McGowan Average Similar →
2006 Cracker: Nine Eleven Mark Fitzgerald Hit Similar →
2006 Elizabeth David: A Life in Recipes Charles Gibson Cowan Flop Similar →
2005 Goal! Hughie McGowan Hit Similar →
2005 A Cock and Bull Story Gary Average Similar →
2004 The Banker Vain Man Average Similar →
2004 9 Songs Matt Average Similar →
2002 24 Hour Party People Nathan Hit Similar →
1999 Virtual Sexuality Alex Thorne Flop Similar →
1989 Monster Maker Matt Banting Hit Similar →
1987 Bellman and True The Boy Average Similar →

Kieran O'Brien - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best movie of Kieran O'Brien?

According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Kieran O'Brien is "The Shock Doctrine" with a rating of 7.1/10.

How many movies has Kieran O'Brien acted in?

Kieran O'Brien has been featured in at least 18 major films throughout their career.

What are some other popular movies by Kieran O'Brien?

Other notable films include "Cracker: Nine Eleven", "24 Hour Party People", and "Goal!".