Dominic Edward Cooper (born 2 June 1978) is an English actor whose career spans film, television and theatre. He is widely recognised for his musical and dramatic work and for moving between British and American productions. Cooper first reached broad audiences through major film roles and later gained attention for leading a contemporary television drama.

Early life and training

Cooper grew up and trained in the United Kingdom and began his professional career on stage before establishing himself on screen. His early work built a foundation in classical and contemporary theatre, and he developed skills in both acting and musical performance that later informed his film roles.

Notable screen roles

On film, Cooper is perhaps best known to international audiences for playing Sky in the popular musical film Mamma Mia! and reprising the part in the sequel, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. He has alternated between light-hearted parts and more serious characters, demonstrating a range that includes comedy, romance and period drama.

Television and genre work

On television, Cooper gained critical and genre recognition playing the conflicted preacher Jesse Custer in the AMC series Preacher (2016–2019). The role highlighted his capacity to carry a complex, long-form narrative and to work within darker, offbeat material. He has also appeared in series tied to larger franchises, bringing a recognisable presence to supporting arcs.

Connections to the Marvel universe

Cooper has a recurring connection to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, portraying a young Howard Stark. He appears in the World War II–era film Captain America: The First Avenger and in later MCU projects, including a cameo in Captain America: The Winter Soldier and the television drama Agent Carter. These appearances made him familiar to comic-book film audiences as well as to viewers of period pieces.

Range, stage roots and selected roles

Trained on the stage and comfortable in musicals and straight drama, Cooper is noted for his adaptability. He has continued to work across media, returning periodically to theatre while taking on film and television parts that capitalise on his charm and dramatic presence. Selected notable roles include:

Cooper's career illustrates a contemporary British actor's pathway from theatre training to international film and television, maintaining a balance of commercial and character-driven work. His recurring involvement in large franchises alongside independent and stage projects underlines his versatility and continued presence across entertainment mediums.