Acclaimed British actress Olivia Colman is known for her remarkable versatility across film, television, and stage.
She rose to prominence with comedic roles in British television, particularly in shows like Peep Show and Twenty Twelve, before gaining widespread recognition for her dramatic performances.
She’s celebrated for her ability to switch effortlessly between comedy and intense drama, portraying both relatable everyday characters and historical figures with depth and authenticity.
From her early comedy work to her Oscar-winning dramatic roles, Olivia Colman has continually proven herself one of the most gifted and compelling actors of her generation.
A classic character actor, her latest flick, Wicker, sees her marry a man made of wicker, played by Alexander Skarsgård. Described as an “audacious comedic fable” the trailer shows the film will feature plenty of interesting intimate scenes (that have us wondering about splinters).
It’s coming to select theatres in November 2026. Until then, here are Olivia Colman’s best roles, in our opinion.
The best Olivia Colman movies and TV shows:
The Roses
Starring as a talented chef opposite architect-turned-househusband Benedict Cumberbatch, Olivia shines in this film. The two portray a married couple who go through a tough period fuelled by ego, jealousy, and guilt. It’s quick-witted, heartfelt, and her outfits are incredible. A must-watch for both actors.
Where to watch: Disney+
Stream The Roses on Disney Plus from $15.99/mth. SUBSCRIBE HERE.
Broadchurch (2013–2017)
In this gripping British crime drama, Olivia plays DS Ellie Miller, investigating the murder of a boy in a small seaside town. Her nuanced performance earned her a BAFTA Award. for Best Actress
Where to watch: Prime Video and Brit Box.
Stream Broadchurch on Prime Video from $6.58/mth, with a 30-day free trial. SUBSCRIBE HERE.
Stream Broadchurch on BritBox from $9.99/mth, with a 7-day free trial. SUBSCRIBE HERE.
The Favourite (2018)
Olivia won a Best Actress Oscar for her performance in this dark comedy. She plays the ailing and mercurial Queen Anne, caught in a power struggle between two ambitious women. Olivia Colman delivered a performance that was equal parts tragic, grotesque, and darkly funny.
Where to watch: Disney+.
Stream The Favourite on Disney Plus from $15.99/mth. SUBSCRIBE HERE.
The Crown (2019–2020)
Olivia took over the role of Queen Elizabeth II in Seasons 3 and 4 of The Crown from Claire Foy. She won a Golden Globe and was nominated for an Emmy for her regal yet restrained performance.
Where to watch: Netflix.
Paddington in Peru (2024)
In this delightful family adventure, Olivia plays Reverend Mother in a story that sees Paddington journey to Peru to find his beloved Aunt Lucy. All of the Paddington films are whimsical, heartwarming tales, and this instalment is no different.
Where to watch: Rent or buy via Apple TV+.
The Lost Daughter (2021)
This psychological drama explores motherhood, guilt, and identity. Plus, Olivia earned an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Leda, a woman confronting painful memories during a seaside holiday.
Where to watch: Netflix.
Fleabag (2016–2019)
In this Emmy-winning comedy-drama, Olivia plays the passive-aggressive Godmother-turned-stepmother to Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s titular Fleabag. If you’re after a sharp, black comedy, this show is a must-watch.
Where to watch: Prime Video.
Stream Fleabag on Prime Video from $6.58/mth, with a 30-day free trial. SUBSCRIBE HERE.
Tyrannosaur (2011)
Olivia gives a devastating performance in Tyrannosaur as Hannah, a kind woman in an abusive marriage who forms an unlikely bond with a violent widower.
Where to watch: Rent or buy via Apple TV+.
Flowers (2016–2018)
In Flowers, Olivia balanced dark humour and tender family dynamics, demonstrating her ability to convey both tragedy and hilarity in a single performance.
Where to watch: Rent or buy via Apple TV+
Twenty Twelve (2011–2012)
If you loved Utopia and The Office, then Twenty Twelve should definitely be on your watch list. It was a satirical comedy about the (fictional) Olympics Deliverance Commission, the group responsible for organising the 2012 London Olympic Games. The show poked fun at bureaucracy, PR blunders, and the chaos behind major public events.
Olivia stars as Sally Owen, the long-suffering personal assistant to Hugh Bonneville’s character. She delivered deadpan lines and exasperated expressions with pitch-perfect timing.
Where to watch: Rent or buy via Apple TV+
The Lobster (2015)
Her darkly comic role in The Lobster showcased her ability to navigate absurdist, offbeat material with perfect timing, proving she could thrive in the weirdest and most inventive stories.
Where to watch: Rent or buy via Apple TV+
Related stories
Native ad body.
Book Review: Tell Me Something True by Michael Robotham
Native ad body.
Book Club: Tell Me Something True by Michael Robotham
Native ad body.
