Roy Marsden

Roy Marsden is a British actor best known for his portrayal of Commander Adam Dalgliesh in the long-running television adaptations of P.D. James's detective novels, which aired primarily on ITV from the 1980s through the early 2000s. His portrayal of Dalgliesh — an intellectual and introspective Scotland Yard detective — earned him widespread acclaim and became his signature role.

Born on June 25, 1941, in Stepney, London, Marsden trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and had a prolific stage career before transitioning to television and film. In addition to his work on the Dalgliesh series, he appeared in numerous British TV dramas including "The Sandbaggers," "The Avengers," "The Wings of the Dove," and "Foyle’s War."

Though primarily known for his television work, Marsden has maintained a consistent presence in theatre, including performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company and in various West End productions.