Jodie Comer has rapidly established herself as one of the most talented and versatile actresses of her generation. With her striking performances in both television and film, Comer has demonstrated her ability to portray a wide range of characters, earning critical acclaim and numerous accolades. From her breakthrough role in “Killing Eve” to her Hollywood success, this article explores Jodie Comer’s most notable movies and TV shows.
Early Career and Breakthrough Roles
Jodie Comer began her acting career with guest appearances in British television series, slowly making a name for herself with her impressive performances. Some of her early roles included appearances in Holby City (2010), Doctors (2012), and Casualty (2013), where she showcased her natural talent for drama.
Her first significant role came in 2013 with My Mad Fat Diary, a British comedy-drama series in which she played Chloe Gemell, the best friend of the main character, Rae. Her portrayal of Chloe, a seemingly confident yet deeply insecure teenager, was praised for its depth and relatability.
Rise to Fame: “Killing Eve” (2018–2022)
Jodie Comer’s career reached new heights with her role as Villanelle in BBC America’s Killing Eve. The show, based on Luke Jennings’ Codename Villanelle novellas, follows an obsessive cat-and-mouse chase between a psychopathic assassin (Villanelle) and an intelligence officer (played by Sandra Oh). Comer’s performance as the charming yet ruthless Villanelle won her widespread acclaim, showcasing her ability to switch effortlessly between different languages, accents, and emotional states.
Her portrayal earned her several awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2019 and a BAFTA TV Award for Best Leading Actress in 2019. Villanelle’s unpredictability, humor, and vulnerability made her one of the most compelling characters on television.
Other Notable TV Roles
“Doctor Foster” (2015–2017)
Before Killing Eve, Comer played Kate Parks in Doctor Foster, a BBC One drama about infidelity and betrayal. Kate is the young mistress of Simon Foster, and Comer’s performance as a seemingly innocent but ultimately manipulative character added complexity to the show’s dramatic tension.
“Thirteen” (2016)
In the BBC miniseries Thirteen, Comer took on the challenging role of Ivy Moxam, a young woman who escapes captivity after being held prisoner for 13 years. Her performance was lauded for its emotional intensity and authenticity, further cementing her reputation as a formidable actress.
“The White Princess” (2017)
Comer starred as Elizabeth of York in The White Princess, a Starz historical drama based on Philippa Gregory’s novel. Playing the strong-willed queen consort of Henry VII, Comer delivered a nuanced performance that highlighted both Elizabeth’s political acumen and personal struggles.
“Help” (2021)
In this Channel 4 drama, Comer portrayed a care home worker during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her deeply moving performance, opposite Stephen Graham, received widespread acclaim for shedding light on the challenges faced by caregivers during the crisis.
Transition to Hollywood: Notable Films
“Free Guy” (2021)
Jodie Comer made her Hollywood blockbuster debut in Free Guy, starring alongside Ryan Reynolds. She played Millie/Molotov Girl, a video game designer seeking justice against a corrupt game company. The film allowed Comer to showcase her comedic timing, action chops, and ability to switch between real-world and in-game personas seamlessly.
“The Last Duel” (2021)
In Ridley Scott’s The Last Duel, Comer took on the role of Marguerite de Carrouges, a historical figure at the center of a legal battle in 14th-century France. Starring alongside Matt Damon, Adam Driver, and Ben Affleck, Comer’s performance was praised for its emotional depth and strength, as she portrayed a woman fighting for justice in a patriarchal society. Her role in the film further established her as a powerhouse performer in Hollywood.
“The Bikeriders” (2024)
Comer is set to star in The Bikeriders, a drama about the rise of a motorcycle club in the 1960s. The film, directed by Jeff Nichols, will showcase her alongside Austin Butler and Tom Hardy, adding another high-profile project to her growing filmography.
“Big Swiss” (Upcoming)
Comer has been cast in the upcoming HBO series Big Swiss, based on the novel by Jen Beagin. This highly anticipated project will likely offer yet another opportunity for Comer to display her dramatic range.
Jodie Comer’s Unique Acting Strengths
Jodie Comer’s success can be attributed to her remarkable versatility. She seamlessly adopts different accents, languages, and personas, making each of her characters distinct and memorable. Her ability to balance vulnerability and strength, humor and intensity, allows her to bring a unique presence to both television and film.
Her deep commitment to character research and preparation also sets her apart. Whether it’s learning different dialects for Killing Eve or embodying historical figures in The White Princess and The Last Duel, Comer’s dedication to her craft has won her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
Conclusion
Jodie Comer has proven herself as one of the most compelling actresses of her generation. With an impressive portfolio that spans drama, thriller, historical fiction, and action-comedy, she continues to captivate audiences worldwide. As she transitions further into Hollywood with upcoming film and television projects, it’s clear that Jodie Comer’s star is only beginning to rise. Whether on the big screen or the small screen, her ability to bring complex characters to life ensures that she will remain a dominant force in the entertainment industry for years to come.