James Frain Biography:

Born on March 14, 1968 in Leeds, Yorkshire, James Frain received his drama training from the University of East Anglia and was also a student at the Central School of Speech and Drama. His first big screen appearance was in the 1993 film, Shadowlands, and his casting was made possible by actor Richard Attenborough. His other film credits include Nothing Personal, Elizabeth, Hilary and Jackie, The Count of Monte Cristo and Into the Blue. Like his co-star, Steven Waddington, in the Showtime drama miniseries, The Tudors, Frain has worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company. He has also appeared in the hit television series, 24.

Thomas Cromwell, Earl of Essex is portrayed by James Frain in the television miniseries, The Tudors. Thomas, the 1st Earl of Essex, enters King Henry the VIII’s inner circle through his connection with Cardinal Thomas Wolsey. Not of royal or noble birth, Cromwell worked his way up to power by helping Cardinal Wolsey with integral ecclesiastical projects and becoming a member of the English Parliament. Because King Henry the VIII views Cromwell as a trustworthy individual, he makes him the chief minister.


(Photo courtesy of Showtime)