Charlie Thomas Cox was born in London, England, to Patricia C. A. (Harley) and Andrew Frederick Seaforth Cox, a publisher, who boasts a rich ancestry comprising English, Scottish, and Irish heritage. Notably, Cox descends from several prominent forebears, including Baronets of Agnew and Carnegie, an Earl of Findlater, and a Colonial Governor of New York, Andrew Elliot.
Cox's educational and dramatic training took place at Sherborne School in Dorset, where he showcased his talents in various productions, including Dealer's Choice, The Writing Game, Code Crackers, Confusions, and Henry V. For his outstanding performances, he received the prestigious Gerald Pitman Award for Acting from Sherborne School. Additionally, he appeared in the television series Judge John Deed in 2001, playing the role of the Young Vicar.
Cox has starred in several notable films, including Things to Do Before You're 30 (2005),alongside Dougray Scott, The Merchant of Venice (2004),featuring Al Pacino, and Dot the I (2003),also known as Obsession, with Gael García Bernal. The latter received rave reviews at The Sundance Film Festival.