
Derek Riddell
ActingAbout Derek Riddell
Derek Riddell (born 11 January 1967) is a Scottish television and theatre actor. He is best known for the portrayal of Richard Cawood in the BBC One television series Happy Valley. He is also known for Gentleman Jack, Industry and The Missing. He has guest-starred in Doctor Who, Ugly Betty, Silent Witness, Waterloo Road, and Shetland. Riddell was born in Glasgow, the son of teacher and former actress Hope Ross and former St Mirren and Berwick Rangers footballer Ian Riddell. He graduated from the University of Strathclyde with a degree in business, before training at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, graduating in 1990.
Derek Riddell Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of Derek Riddell reflects a career marked by diverse experimentation. Across 13 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of Derek Riddell's work falls within the Drama genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 46% of Derek Riddell's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains National Theatre Live: Till The Stars Come Down, which stands out as a key performance.
Best Derek Riddell Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Derek Riddell's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie Derek Riddell has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | The Christmas Quest | Victor Grimes | Hit | Similar → |
| 2024 | National Theatre Live: Till The Stars Come Down | John | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 2018 | Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald | Torquil Travers | Hit | Similar → |
| 2017 | Mary Shelley | William Baxter | Hit | Similar → |
| 2012 | Bad Sugar | Father Rodrigo | Average | Similar → |
| 2009 | A Previous Engagement | Hotel Desk Clerk | Flop | Similar → |
| 2009 | Micro Men | Nigel Searle | Hit | Similar → |
| 2007 | The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey | Parson | Average | Similar → |
| 2007 | Forgiven | Stephen | Flop | Similar → |
| 2005 | Much Ado About Nothing | Don | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 2005 | Meat the Campbells | Mr. Campbell | Flop | Similar → |
| 2004 | Tumshie McFadgen's Bid for Ultimate Bliss | Tumshie McFadgen | Flop | Similar → |
| 2002 | The Project | Richard Loach | Flop | Similar → |
Derek Riddell - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Derek Riddell?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Derek Riddell is "National Theatre Live: Till The Stars Come Down" with a rating of 10.0/10.
How many movies has Derek Riddell acted in?
Derek Riddell has been featured in at least 13 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Derek Riddell?
Other notable films include "Much Ado About Nothing", "Micro Men", and "Mary Shelley".




