Benjamin Walker Bio
Benjamin Walker Scodelario-Davis (born June 21, 1982) is an American actor and stand-up comedian. He is known for his role as Andrew Jackson in the Broadway musical Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson and for his title role in the film Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter. His performances on stage and screen have garnered critical acclaim, including a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Play for his work in All My Sons. Walker has appeared in television series such as Jessica Jones and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.
Early Life and Background
Benjamin Walker was born in Cartersville, Georgia, as the younger of two boys. His mother, Jeannine Walker, was a music teacher, while his father, Greg Davis, owned a movie rental store and worked in financial services. To avoid confusion with another actor named Benjamin Davis, he adopted his mother’s maiden name, Walker, as his stage name. He attended Cartersville High School and later studied at the Interlochen Arts Academy before graduating from the Juilliard School in New York City in 2004.
Path to Hollywood
Walker’s early career included various stage roles that helped him hone his craft. He made his Broadway debut in the 2007 revival of Inherit the Wind. His performance in the musical Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson, which premiered in 2010, marked a significant turning point in his career. This role showcased his talent and led to further opportunities in both theater and film, establishing him as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Benjamin Walker Career
Early Career (2004–2010)
After graduating from Juilliard, Walker quickly made a name for himself on Broadway. His early work included roles in productions such as The Arrangements and Lady Windermere’s Fan. In 2010, he starred in the musical Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson, which was well-received and solidified his reputation as a talented actor. Walker’s film career began with appearances in independent films, but his breakout role came when he was cast as Abraham Lincoln in the 2012 film Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter, which was released to mixed reviews but showcased his versatility as an actor.
Breakthrough (2011–2015)
Walker’s portrayal of Abraham Lincoln in Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter was a defining moment in his career, allowing him to transition from theater to film successfully. He continued to build his filmography with roles in movies such as Kinsey and In the Heart of the Sea. His stage work also flourished during this time, with notable performances in productions like All My Sons, for which he received a Tony Award nomination.
Notable Works and Milestones
Benjamin Walker’s signature work includes his role in Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson and his portrayal of Abraham Lincoln. He has received critical acclaim for his performances, including a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Play for All My Sons. Walker’s ability to navigate both stage and screen has made him a versatile and respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Benjamin Walker Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Benjamin Walker has received several nominations, including a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Play for his performance in All My Sons.
Benjamin Walker Awards Won
While Benjamin Walker has not won major awards, his performances have been critically acclaimed, and he has established himself as a talented actor in both theater and film.
Benjamin Walker Family
Benjamin Walker was previously married to actress Mamie Gummer from 2011 to 2013. He later married actress Kaya Scodelario in 2015, and the couple has two children together, a son born in 2016 and a daughter born in 2021.
Personal Life
Walker began dating Kaya Scodelario in 2014, and they became engaged later that year. They married in late 2015 and adopted the surname Scodelario-Davis. In February 2024, the couple announced their separation. Walker has performed stand-up comedy at various venues and continues to engage with audiences through his comedic work.
