Michael Socha

British actor Michael Socha is the epitome of the working-class English boy made good. He had his breakthrough role while in his late teens when he was cast as the thuggish Harvey in the hit inner-city drama "This Is England" (2006). Two years later, the wiry young actor turned up in a stint on the popular medical show "Casualty" (BBC One, 1986- ), and was featured in the pensive movie "Summer," starring Robert Carlyle. Returning to the character of Harvey for the TV spinoffs of "This Is England," Socha truly hit his stride when he joined the cast of the fan-favorite supernatural series "Being Human" (BBC, 2008-2013) and appeared on the show over the course of two years. Shortly after "Being Human" wrapped up, he won the part of the Knave of Hearts on "Once Upon a Time in Wonderland" (ABC, 2013-14), giving him international exposure and showcasing his rugged British charm.

A native of the East Midlands, Socha grew up in a modest home with his sister and fellow actor, Lauren Socha. As a child, Michael became intrigued by acting but didn't pursue it in earnest until his later teen years. Socha's casting in the well-received urban film "This Is England" provided his career with a jumpstart, though he wasn't immediately able to follow up on the opportunity. After two years of little screen work, he scored a recurring gig on "Casualty" and worked with the revered actor Robert Carlyle in the subdued drama "Summer." In 2010, Socha happily rejoined the crew of "This Is England" for the Channel 4 sequel miniseries "This Is England '86," which was followed by "This Is England '88" (2011). Meanwhile, his career ascension continued as he signed on to the fantastical series "Being Human," portraying werewolf Tom McNair and becoming a regular on the show's final two seasons. In 2013, Socha received his first readymade global audience when he was featured as the roguish Knave of Hearts on the much-hyped magical series "Once Upon a Time in Wonderland."