In a season of award shows and emerging talents in the world of cinema, we can’t seem to tear our attention away from up-and-coming actor Jamie Dornan. Starring as Christian Grey in the highly anticipated film Fifty Shades of Grey, the UK native has already captured the hearts of American (albeit predominantly female) audiences. Combining a successful acting repertoire with his signature smoldering countenance, Dornan is on his way to becoming a household name. Here’s some facts you need to know to get to know this cutie:
1. He’s Irish.
With his dashing good looks and swoon-worthy accent, who wouldn’t fall in love.
2. He’s a former underwear model.
Dornan has modeled for the likes of Armani, Dior, and Calvin Klein alongside Eva Mendes and British bombshell Kate Moss.
3. He originally wanted to be a rugby player.
During his time at Methodist College, Dornan played for the Belfast Harlequins, a small local team in his hometown of Belfast in Northern Ireland. He had hoped to become a pro one-day, however, he eventually turned to acting.
4. He used to be in a band called Sons of Jim.
Although the folk band broke up in 2008, they achieved some notable success, playing as an opening act for singer KT Tunstall. Singing, playing sports, and acting, what can’t he do?
5. Dornan has also starred in popular small screen hits.
Dornan has had multiple roles in the ABC hit series Once Upon a Time and is currently in a Northern Irish drama titled The Fall. Dornan has even garnered a BAFTA nomination for his role in The Fall.
6. He’s also starred in some prominent Hollywood films.
Dornan’s first big break came with the Sofia Coppola film Marie Antoinette. Dornan plays the role of Count Axel von Fersen, the French man who engages in a steamy love affair with Marie Antoinette (played by Kirsten Dunst). His dynamic character and captivating portrayal of the queen’s inconspicuous debauchery earned the movie a cult following in the decade after it’s release.
7. He’s very trendy.
The Fifty Shades star proves that he looks good both in and out of his clothes.
8. His twitter account is quite comical.
Not only does he have the good looks, but the wit to boot.
9. He’s a father and husband.
Sorry ladies, but he’s taken. Dornan married singer-songwriter Amelia Warner in April 2013 and celebrated the birth of their baby girl in November of that year. Although the couple has chosen to keep the name of their daughter private, we are sure it’s no less than perfect coming from these two artistically driven parents.
10. He’s very humble.
Although Dornan is both multitalented and extremely handsome, the Irish hunk is very down to earth. Dornan even told E! Online in a recent interview that he at times still feels like the skinny kid he was in high school. Well, it seems pretty obvious that Dornan is far from his awkward teen days.