Nigel Harman
Nigel Derek Harman (born 11 August 1973) is a British actor, most famous for his role as Dennis Rickman in the BBC soap opera EastEnders. He has worked mostly in theatre, with the stage being described as his "first love". He starred in the final series of Hotel Babylon. In early 2013 he started filming for the fourth series of Downton Abbey, and is currently playing the role of a visiting valet Mr Green.
In the theatre, he has played various musical roles including Sky Masterson in Michael Grandage's revival of Guys and Dolls and Lord Farquaad in the original London production of Shrek the Musical for which he received an Olivier Award for his performance.
Childhood and early career
Harman grew up in Woldingham, and was educated at elite Dulwich College. However, he found school difficult: "I was never comfortable sitting down. I always wanted to get involved in something, not just learn and write. I was in so much trouble I had my own desk in detention." His father was a bank manager, but also involved in amateur dramatics including work with Croydon Operatic and Dramatic Association (CODA), an interest which was passed on to Harman. His mother was also involved in the productions, but she died when Harman was 18.
