Polly Walker, born on May 19, 1966, in Warrington, Lancashire, England, is an acclaimed English actress known for her versatile roles in film and television. She initially pursued a career in ballet, attending the Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance. However, a leg injury at the age of 18 forced her to abandon dancing and turn to acting.

She trained at the Drama Centre London and began her acting career with the Royal Shakespeare Company, where she played various small roles before transitioning to television and film.

Her breakthrough role came in the 1992 film "Patriot Games," where she played an English member of an Irish terrorist group. This performance garnered her international attention and led to roles in films such as "Enchanted April" (1991), "Sliver" (1993), "Restoration" (1995), and "The Gambler" (1997).

Her portrayal of Atia of the Julii in the HBO/BBC series "Rome" (2005-2007) earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Television Series – Drama in 2006. This role showcased her ability to bring complex historical characters to life and solidified her reputation as a talented actress.

In her personal life, Polly Walker married Laurence Penry-Jones in 2008, and they have two children together. She is known for maintaining a private lifestyle, focusing on her family and career. Her dedication to her craft is evident in her diverse body of work, which includes roles in television series such as "Prisoners’ Wives" (2012-2013), "Line of Duty" (2016, 2019), and "Bridgerton" (2020-present). Her performance in "Bridgerton" as Lady Featherington has been particularly well-received, adding to her list of memorable roles.

Throughout her career, Polly Walker has received numerous accolades and nominations, reflecting her talent and versatility as an actress. Her ability to seamlessly transition between dramatic roles in historical dramas and contemporary settings has made her a respected figure in the entertainment industry.