Tom Hiddleston has made a name for himself in Hollywood primarily through his movie roles, but the actor has also made waves through his compelling TV show performances. Tom Hiddleston’s movie roles span everything from charming comedies to period romances, indie dramas to suspenseful thrillers, and, of course, the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The actor has ventured into the realm of television less frequently, with both minor roles before his breakthrough and leading roles since. Hiddleston is renowned for his magnetic charm, his razor-sharp humor, and his ability to tap into a deep well of emotions, making him a versatile performer who seamlessly transitions between grand character roles and nuanced dramatic ones.
Since his on-screen debut in the 2001 television movie The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby, Hiddleston has continued to captivate audiences with his exceptional performances across the mediums of stage, television, and film, underlining his versatility and several times earning nominations for his work. The actor’s greatest roles on the small screen showcase his multifaceted skills as he tackles the roles of real-life historical figures, superpowered beings, and even complicated pastors. Whether the role demands high-stakes drama or uproarious humor, Tom Hiddleston approaches each TV character with a level of commitment that elevates the storytelling.
7 Suburban Shootout As Bill Hazeldine
(2006-2007)
Hiddleston stars in this regrettably short-lived black comedy series about a group of rival housewives in the suburbs of London who form warring gangs. The actor flexes a different side of his skills as someone much less assured than his usual roles. In Suburban Shootout, he plays the awkward, naive son of the lead character, a young man recently returned from his missionary work in Africa. Hiddleston’s hilariously uncomfortable interactions with his less reserved and very flirtatious neighbor are a highlight of the show, and an early showcase of his comedic skills. The series offers a brilliantly absurd spin on British suburban life, along with some underappreciated yet outstanding performances that deserve more praise.
6 The Essex Serpent As Will Ransome
(2022 Miniseries)
The actor stars alongside Claire Danes in Apple TV+’s period-set romantic miniseries as a skeptical pastor in Essex County who is tasked with calming his parishioners’ hysteria caused by reports of a dangerous, mythical serpent. Hiddleston skillfully portrays the pastor’s mix of emotions, dealing with his daughter’s trauma, his affection for Cora, and his enduring love for his wife, Stella, all while attempting to maintain his important role as a figurehead in a community descending into chaos. Hiddleston and Danes share radiant chemistry in this series, which weaves Gothic ambiance and moments of true terror with romance and themes of morality.
5 The Hollow Crown As Henry V
(2012-2016)
Hiddleston gives a remarkable and deeply felt performance in this series of television adaptations of several of Shakespeare’s historical plays. The adaptations bring together an impressive ensemble and breathe new life into his timeless words with a contemporary finesse. Hiddleston takes the audience on a captivating journey, allowing them to witness Henry V’s transformation from a brash and cocky young man to a powerful and charismatic leader. The actor masterfully delivers Shakespeare’s words, balancing the heightened text with emotional resonance, making them feel accessible to modern audiences. It is truly Shakespeare for the modern age, with Hiddleston offering a performance filled with growth, soul, and nuance within a beautifully realized and weighty adaptation.
4 What If …? As Loki (Voice)
(2021-Present)
Hiddleston reprises his role as the mischievous and cunning adopted brother of Thor in this animated reimagining of pivotal moments in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The series explores alternate timeline versions of key events from the films, and what would happen if minor changes were made, offering creative reinterpretations of many iconic MCU moments. Through merely his voice, Hiddleston again breathes life into the character, skillfully portraying the complex duality of Loki’s nature, from his warring sides of good and evil to his sharp wit. The show offers a fascinating exploration of the character within alternate timelines, complemented by stunning and distinctive animation, making it a must-watch for Marvel fans.
3 Wallander As Magnus Martinsson
(2008-2016)
Before his major Hollywood breakthrough, Hiddleston appeared in the first two seasons of this adaptation of the Swedish crime drama about brilliant and troubled detective Kurt Wallander (played by Kenneth Branagh). Hiddleston plays a member of Wallander’s team at the police station, a keen and bright but easily impatient young man. The actor also brings some much-needed humor to the series. The series is alluringly hypnotic, delving not just into the many cases Wallander takes on, but into the depths of his character as well. It’s not the first time Hiddleston would work with Branagh, with the actor directing Hiddleston in the 2011 Thor movie, which premiered just a year after Wallander‘s second season.
2 The Night Manager As Jonathan Pine
(2016)
Hiddleston takes on his first leading television role as Jonathan Pine, a former soldier and night manager at a luxury Cairo hotel. His character’s life takes a thrilling turn when he’s recruited to infiltrate the inner circle of notorious arms dealer Richard Roper, portrayed by Hugh Laurie. Hiddleston’s performance is marked by nuanced restraint as he gradually unveils the cracks in his meticulously maintained customer service facade, revealing a character overwhelmed by high-stakes espionage.
Hiddleston infuses the part with slyness, stiff dignity, and a well of emotion which hints at the character’s complex history. The actor’s portrayal in this stylish, seductive, and action-packed series earned him an Emmy Award nomination and a Golden Globe win. Despite how acclaimed Hiddleston’s performance is in the underrated series The Night Manager, it still doesn’t beat the actor’s best TV role to date.
1 Loki As Loki
(2021-Present)
Hiddleston returns as the Asgardian God of Mischief in Disney+’s popular TV series, Loki, which follows the alternate universe version of Loki created in Avengers: Endgame. With an ingenious blend of humor and action, the series offers a thrilling continuation for this iconic character and allows Hiddleston’s marvelously malevolent and sly portrayal of the role to shine. While Loki retains his cunning qualities, the series introduces more vulnerability and depth to his character, and Hiddleston incorporates subtle choices that distinguish this alternate version.
Loki is an epic and endlessly creative show that deepens the character, allowing Hiddleston’s brilliant portrayal to shine. After two hit seasons streaming on Disney+ and continued critical acclaim, Loki season 2’s ending sees some of Hiddleston’s greatest TV acting as he dives deeper into his most iconic character. Loki is undoubtedly Tom Hiddleston‘s best TV role, and a must-watch for Marvel fans and general audiences alike.
