‘Love Actually’ cast then and now as beloved Christmas classic lands on Netflix

The heartwarming movie, headlined by a star cast is one of the most-talked-about Christmas flicks
PUBLISHED DEC 20, 2025
A still from 'Love Actually' (Cover image credit: Universal Studios | Photo by Peter Mountain)
A still from 'Love Actually' (Cover image credit: Universal Studios | Photo by Peter Mountain)

It's time for Christmas content with streamers dropping some new and old releases on their platforms ahead of Christmas Eve. Among the bunch of releases is an iconic classic in 'Love Actually'. The heartwarming movie is one of the most-talked-about Christmas flicks, even after 22 years of its release. It was first released in the UK in November 2003.

The ensemble cast saw Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, and Hugh Grant, along with marquee names in Keira Knightley, Martin Freeman, and Kris Marshall. With the film set to release on Christmas Eve on Netflix and on ITV1 (at 9:15 PM), here's a quick look at the cast of the classic, then, and how they are now.

Thomas Brodie-Sangster made his debut with the hit classic and has since gone on to work in major projects including 'Star Wars', 'The Maze Runner', and 'Game of Thrones'. He currently plays another folk classic character, Jack Dawkins, in Disney+'s 'The Artful Dodger'. Marshall was later back in 'Beyond Paradise', the spin-off of 'Death in Paradise'. Freeman was a familiar face in 'Black Panther' and also went on in 'The Hobbit' trilogy. Colin Firth, who played Jamie in the film,m made headlines with 'Kingsman: The Secret Service' and 'The King's Speech.'

Another major name was Andrew Lincoln, who later starred as the legendary Rick Grimes in AMC's 'The Walking Dead'. Chiwetel Ejiofor went on to make a string of movies to add to his already-impressive CV with 'The Martian' and '12 Years a Slave'. Grant was later a recognizable name in 'Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy'. Lastly, Knightley went on to become a success with 'Pirates of the Caribbean' and on Netflix's 'Black Doves'.

The synopsis for 'Love Actually' reads, "Nine intertwined journeys examine the complexities of the one emotion that connects all individuals, love. Among these individuals is David, the handsome, newly elected British prime minister, who falls for a junior staffer. Sarah is a graphic designer whose devotion to her mentally ill brother complicates her love life. Harry, a married man, is tempted by his attractive new secretary."

'Love Actually' streams on Christmas Eve on Netflix.

GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

In what comes as good news for fans of 'Mamma Mia 3,' Meryl Streep teased potential return as Donna in the in-development sequel, along with pop icon.
3 minutes ago
'Avatar: Fire and Ash' is finally available on streaming platforms, with the digital releases slated for May 19.
2 hours ago
The animated film follows Mario and Luigi on another adventure as they encounter a vast range of characters from the popular video game franchises
3 hours ago
'Weapons' prequel adds the services of Zach Shields, who has previously worked in several acclaimed movies
5 hours ago
The next 'James Bond' sequel unveils key details, setting the stage for what’s to come before Denis Villeneuve’s Amazon reboot begins.
21 hours ago
The movie is based on the comic book series 'Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow,' which was published in 2022 and illustrated by Bilquis Evely.
1 day ago
With the trailer dropping earlier on Tuesday, all eyes are on Parsons' age after his viral YouTube series is now a full-fledged theatre feature.
1 day ago
The latest trailer of 'Masters of the Universe' sees Jared Leto's chilling and signature Skeletor cackle as he trash-talks He-Man/Prince Adam.
1 day ago
Dwayne Johnson took to Instagram to share an update on the third installment of 'Jumanji,' and also paid a tribute to Robin Williams.
1 day ago
Sydney Sweeney has earned millions in recent years from her profitable ventures, ranging from acting, producing, and endorsement deals
2 days ago