Born in the historic city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, a renowned metropolis in northeastern England, he is the offspring of a highly accomplished and respected architect, Professor Douglass Wise, whose professional expertise and artistic vision undoubtedly had a profound impact on his life and career.
As the son of a distinguished architect, it was initially assumed that he would follow in his father's footsteps and pursue a career in architecture. Consequently, he enrolled in the prestigious University of Edinburgh to study architecture, where he spent a considerable amount of time honing his skills and developing his knowledge of the field.
However, he eventually decided to deviate from the traditional path and explore other creative avenues. He abandoned his architectural studies and relocated to the vibrant city of Glasgow, where he enrolled in a drama program to pursue his passion for the performing arts.
His first professional acting job on stage was a significant milestone in his career, as he starred in the musical production "Good Rockin' Tonight", which was based on the life of the renowned TV producer Jack Good. This role not only showcased his impressive acting abilities but also marked the beginning of his journey in the world of entertainment.
In addition to his stage work, he also ventured into the world of filmmaking, making his cinematic debut in the mid-1990s with the critically acclaimed movies "Sense and Sensibility" (1995) and "Feast of July" (1995). These early film projects not only demonstrated his versatility as an actor but also cemented his position as a rising star in the entertainment industry.