Katherine Kelly's life journey began in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, England, where she was raised by her Irish parents. Her childhood was spent oscillating between County Kerry, Ireland, and America, where she received her education. This diverse upbringing has undoubtedly contributed to her unique versatility as a performer.
Katherine's professional career kicked off with a stint at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA),where she honed her craft. Since then, she has consistently worked in theatre, television, and film, showcasing her impressive range.
Recent projects include her critically acclaimed performances in ITV's "The Long Shadow" and "Mr Bates Vs The Post Office", as well as her role in the new ITVX comedy "Ruby Speaking".
Some of Katherine's notable screen credits include her leading role as 'DI Natalie Hobbs' in Netflix's International Emmy-nominated drama "Criminal: UK", ITV's prime time crime drama "Innocent", and the second series of Chris Lang's hit psychological drama "Official Secrets" alongside Keira Knightley, Ralph Fiennes, and Matt Smith.
Katherine has also appeared in the BIFA and Sundance Festival nominated film "Dirty God", "Liar" with Joanne Froggatt, 'Lady Mae' in ITV's "Mr Selfridge", ITV four-part chilling drama "Cheat" opposite Molly Windsor, the BBC adaptation of John Le Carré's spy thriller "The Night Manager", Sally Wainwright's multi award-winning "Happy Valley", Sky One series "Strike Back", TV mini-series "Him" with Fionn Whitehead, the Sky hit comedy "Bloods" alongside Jane Horrocks, "The Last Train to Christmas" (Sky Cinema) starring alongside Michael Sheen, BBC Dr. Who spin-off series "Class", and playing the role of 'Elizabeth Sutherland' in the second series of historical BAFTA and RTS nominated drama "Gentelman Jack" (BBC/HBO).
Before transitioning to screen work, Katherine began her professional career in theatre, with projects at the Chichester Festival Theatre and Manchester Royal Exchange. She later joined the esteemed Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) in 2004/5. Notable theatre credits include Jamie Lloyd's critically acclaimed production of Oliver Goldsmith's "She Stoops To Conquer" at The National Theatre and Josie Rourke's "dazzling revival" of "City of Angels" at the Donmar Warehouse.
In 2021, Katherine co-created, wrote, and directed the critically acclaimed fictional podcast "Curl Up and D.I.", which quickly soared to the top of the fiction podcast charts, claiming the Number 1 spot. It was one of The Guardian's chosen Podcasts of the Year.
Katherine is set to appear in the new ITV drama 'Protection' with Siobhan Finneran, launching in 2024, and is working with Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith on their final series of Inside Number 9.
