Introduction
Tommy Flanagan is a Scottish actor who has made a name for himself in Hollywood. He is known for his roles in movies like Braveheart, Gladiator, and Sin City. But there is more to Flanagan than just his acting career. In this article, we will take a closer look at his personal life, career, movies, and the Glasgow smile scars that have become a part of his signature look.
Personal Life
Early Life and Education
Tommy Flanagan was born on July 3, 1965, in Glasgow, Scotland. He grew up in a rough neighborhood and was involved in gang activity as a teenager. However, he turned his life around after a near-fatal stabbing incident and decided to pursue a career in acting. Flanagan attended the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow and graduated with a degree in acting.
Family and Relationships
Flanagan is a private person and does not share much about his personal life. However, it is known that he is married to Dina Livingston, a Scottish actress. The couple has been together for over 20 years and has two children together. Flanagan is also a stepfather to Livingston’s daughter from a previous relationship.
Career
Early Career
After graduating from drama school, Flanagan began his acting career in Scotland. He appeared in several stage productions and made his television debut in the Scottish drama series, Taggart. Flanagan’s breakthrough role came in the 1995 movie, Braveheart, where he played the character of Morrison.
Hollywood Success
Flanagan’s success in Braveheart led to more opportunities in Hollywood. He landed roles in movies like Gladiator, Sin City, and Alien vs. Predator. Flanagan is also known for his role as Filip “Chibs” Telford in the FX series, Sons of Anarchy. He appeared in over 90 episodes of the show and became a fan favorite.
Movies
Braveheart
Braveheart is a 1995 historical epic movie directed by Mel Gibson. The movie tells the story of William Wallace, a Scottish warrior who led a rebellion against the English. Flanagan played the character of Morrison, one of Wallace’s allies. The movie was a critical and commercial success and won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Gladiator
Gladiator is a 2000 epic historical drama directed by Ridley Scott. The movie tells the story of Maximus Decimus Meridius, a Roman general who seeks revenge against the corrupt emperor who murdered his family. Flanagan played the character of Cicero, one of Maximus’s allies. The movie was a box office success and won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Glasgow Smile Scars
Origin of the Scars
Flanagan’s Glasgow smile scars have become a part of his signature look. The scars were caused by a knife attack that Flanagan suffered in a bar in Scotland in 1990. The attacker used a broken glass to slash Flanagan’s face, leaving him with scars on both sides of his mouth. The scars have become a part of Flanagan’s persona and have even been incorporated into some of his movie roles.
Impact on Flanagan’s Career
Flanagan’s Glasgow smile scars have not affected his acting career. In fact, they have become a part of his unique look and have helped him stand out in Hollywood. Flanagan has even joked that he owes his career to the scars. He has used his experience to raise awareness about knife crime and has spoken out against violence.
