Colin McFarlane (born 15 September 1961) is a British actor whose career covers film, television, theatre and animation. Born in Upper Clapton, London, England, he is widely recognised for authoritative supporting parts as well as for voice performances in a variety of animated projects.

Career overview

McFarlane's screen career includes roles in high-profile feature films and a steady presence on British television. International audiences will know him for portraying Commissioner Gillian B. Loeb in Christopher Nolan's Batman franchise, appearing in Batman Begins and returning in The Dark Knight. On television he has appeared in popular series such as Jonathan Creek, The Fast Show and Black Books while also taking on numerous guest and recurring parts across dramas and comedies.

Notable roles and voice work

McFarlane has balanced on-screen acting with significant voice work. He has provided narration and character voices for animated films and series, including a credited role as the voice of God in the animated series Testament: The Bible in Animation. His clear diction and commanding delivery make him a frequent choice for roles that require gravitas.

  • Film: Commissioner Gillian B. Loeb in Nolan's Batman films.
  • Television: appearances in Jonathan Creek; sketch and comedy work including The Fast Show and Black Books.
  • Voice and animation: narration, character voices and audio projects for both children and adult audiences.

Beyond screen credits, McFarlane has maintained a presence in theatre and radio, typical for classically trained British actors who move between stage and screen. His versatility has allowed him to perform in a wide range of genres, from comedy to serious drama.

Personal details commonly cited in profiles note that he was born in Upper Clapton and that he is married to Kate McFarlane; the couple have a son named Josh. McFarlane's career is an example of a contemporary character actor who builds a durable body of work across multiple media while remaining identifiable through a recurring type of authoritative character.

For further reading on specific credits and listings, consult filmographies and databases that list his stage, screen and voice roles in detail.