Lewis Howden

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The world of Scottish television has been graced by many talented actors, but few have captured audiences quite like Lewis Howden. From his humble beginnings in Edinburgh to becoming a staple of the beloved BBC drama Shetland, Howden’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and family legacy in the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Artistic Roots

Born and raised in Leith, Edinburgh, Lewis Howden was destined for the performing arts. Growing up in a family deeply connected to entertainment, he was surrounded by creativity from a young age. His father, Alex ‘Happy’ Howden, was a comedian and actor who worked diverse jobs before finding his calling in stand-up comedy and acting. His sister, Kathryn Howden, is also a prominent actress known for her role as Maggie McLean in the Scottish soap opera River City.

The Path to Acting

Howden’s artistic journey began early, with involvement in Edinburgh Youth Theatre. Despite initial hesitation due to the challenges he saw his mother facing while supporting the family, he eventually embraced his passion. He studied drama at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama (now the Conservatoire), where an interesting naming story emerged. Originally named Alexander after his father, he chose the name Lewis from a baby book to avoid confusion with his dad in the acting world.

Breaking into Television

His breakthrough came with the long-running BBC drama Shetland, where he has portrayed Sergeant Billy McCabe since the show’s inception in 2013. Howden has been a consistent presence in the series, becoming a fan favorite and an integral part of the show’s success. His character, Billy McCabe, has been a reliable and experienced police sergeant, providing stability to the dramatic narratives of the show.

A Family of Performers

The Howden family’s artistic credentials are impressive. His late father, Alex Howden, appeared in notable films like Martin Scorsese’s Gangs of New York, sharing screen space with Leonardo DiCaprio and Daniel Day-Lewis. His sister Kathryn has carved her own path with roles in various television series including Taggart, Pramface, and Outlander.

Beyond Shetland

While Shetland has been a significant part of his career, Howden’s acting portfolio is diverse. He has appeared in other productions like Taggart and Hope Springs, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Interestingly, he considers himself primarily a stage actor, having trained specifically for theatre, though he has found equal joy in television roles.

In a charming anecdote, Howden once shared a humorous story about working with co-star Ashley Jensen in a play where she had to give him a bath on stage - an experience he jokes might have "scarred her forever"!

Looking to the Future

When asked about the future of Shetland, Howden maintains the classic actor’s perspective: “Of course, when somebody asks you what your favourite part is, the actor-y thing to say is, ‘The next one’.” This attitude reflects his continued passion and openness to new opportunities in his acting career.

With a rich family history in entertainment and a career that continues to evolve, Lewis Howden represents the best of Scottish acting talent - versatile, passionate, and deeply connected to his roots.