Lily James — biographical portrait
A Documentary Film

Lily James

Full Name: Lily Chloe Ninette Thomson (professionally known as Lily James)

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50+
Film Credits
1940
Academy Awards
7
Chapters
Iconic
Status

Chapters

01

Origins

The Beginning

Lily James holds British nationality. Born and raised in England, she comes from an artistic family with deep roots in the British entertainment industry.

02

The Rise

Building a Legacy

Lily James began her professional career immediately after graduating from Arts Educational Schools in 2010. Unlike many young actors who struggle to find work, her combination of formal training and family connections helped her secure early opportunities.

03

The Work

Defining Moments

Lily James has built an impressive filmography spanning period dramas, musicals, contemporary films, and television series. Her work demonstrates remarkable versatility and a willingness to take on diverse, challenging roles.

04

The Peak

Greatest Achievements

Lily James's career has earned her recognition from major award bodies, with particular acclaim for her transformative performance as Pamela Anderson in "Pam & Tommy." While she is still early in her career compared to many of her peers, she has already received Emmy, Golden Globe, and...

05

The Legacy

Lasting Impact

Lily James comes from a family with deep theatrical roots that have profoundly shaped her life and career. Her father, James Thomson (stage name James Chalmers), was an actor and musician who died of cancer when Lily was 18.

(2010), where she appeared as Ethel Brown. **Stage Debut:** Her professional stage debut came in

— Lily James - Early Life and Background

at the Young Vic Theatre in 2011, an adaptation of the Booker Prize-winning novel. **Name Change:** Around this time, she adopted the professional name

— Lily James - Early Life and Background

—combining her first name with her father's middle name. The change served two purposes: to honor her late father and to avoid confusion with other actors named Lily Thomson. ## Early Television Work (2010-2012) **Quickly (2010):** Lily appeared in the television film

— Lily James - Early Life and Background

Clash of the Titans,

— Lily James - Early Life and Background

(2010), where she played Ethel Brown. This children's television series provided valuable on-set experience. **Theater Work:** James prioritized stage work in her early career, understanding the value of classical training: -

— Lily James - Career Overview

Filmography

Year Title Role/Impact Type
1989 Full Name and Birth Information Performance Film
2024 Current Status and Career Position Performance Film
2010 Early Career Beginnings Performance Film
2013 She appeared in this production at the Minerva Theatre in Chichester. Performance Film
1989 Family Background and Acting Heritage Performance Film
2010 Early Career Beginnings (2010) Performance Film
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