Biography

Hywel was born in Neath, South Wales, February 10th 1970.  For those who are interested, that makes him an Aquarian.

He was brought up in the seaside town of Porthcawl  where he later attended Porthcawl comprehensive School and, with ongoing support from his parents, it was there that he was first inspired to act by his drama teacher, Roger Burnell.

He says of himself, “I’m Welsh, so I’m naturally deeply romantic and emotional” and although not a Welsh speaker, he retains a great affection for his home and loves to return from London, where he now lives, to visit his parents, sister and niece Tarian.  He is also godfather to Molly, the daughter of actor Jason Hughes (This Life, House!) and Lilly, daughter of the Port Talbot born actor, Michael Sheen and Kate Beckinsale. 

Hywel used to surf, but says that he now prefers to walk the coastline, and admits to no real hobbies beyond dominoes and occasional woodcarving.

He once sent for details about joining the police, following in the footsteps of his grandfather and great-grandfather, decided it wasn't for him and went to LAMDA in 1991, graduating in 1993.  From LAMDA he moved on immediately to the BBC drama series ‘Roughnecks’ following this with a variety of theatrical roles and small roles in the films ‘Wilde’ and ‘Shakespeare in Love’.  After this came more one-off TV roles, culminating in April 2001 when he became a regular cast member of ITV’s ‘The Bill’ where he beautifully portrayed gay sergeant, Craig Gilmore.  Leaving the series in February 2003 he returned to the theatre to play Baron Tusenbach in Chekhov’s  ‘Three Sisters’ at the Mercury Theatre, Colchester, following this with more theatre and television work.  He married his partner, Sarah Tansey, in August 2005.

Porthcawl Area