Lars Mikkelsen

Lars Dittmann Mikkelsen was born in Gladsaxe, Denmark, on May 6, 1964. As the third child in a family of six, he was raised by his nurse mother, Bente Christiansen, and bank clerk father, Henning Mikkelsen. Growing up in the Nørrebro district with his younger brother Mads, who also pursued acting, Lars engaged in diverse activities like handball and choir, enriching his early life experiences.

Following high school, Lars served in the Royal Danish Army’s infantry regiment for nine months, then studied biology at the University of Copenhagen. However, he eventually realized that his true interest lay elsewhere and enrolled in a juggling school. There, he mastered skills like juggling and fire breathing, setting the stage for his unique career trajectory.

As a circus performer, Lars toured Europe with a troupe, also studying the art of pantomime in a Danish circus. At 27, he decided to switch to acting, making a significant impact in “Dracula” at the Aalborg Theatre. His graduation from drama school marked the beginning of an illustrious theater career, with over 40 roles that garnered audience acclaim.

Lars Mikkelsen’s career in the entertainment industry spans both Danish projects and Hollywood films. His breakout role in 2007 as a mayoral candidate in “The Killing” led to working with Sofie Gråbøl, Marie Askehave, and director Charlotte Sieling. This role catapulted him into the international spotlight, opening doors to more diverse opportunities.

In 2010, Mikkelsen shone as a villain in “Sherlock,” alongside Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. His portrayal of the Russian President in “House of Cards” in 2013 further showcased his versatility. Following these roles, Mikkelsen received numerous offers in cinema, including his part in “When Animals Dream” with Sonja Richter, “The Team” alongside Jürgen Vogel and Jasmin Gerat, and the lead in “The Day Will Come.” In 2019, he joined the cast of “The Witcher,” working with Henry Cavill, Freya Allan, Joey Batey, and Eamon Farren.

In 1985, Lars Mikkelsen met Anette Støvelbæk, who became his wife in 1988, marking the start of a shared life journey based on mutual love at first sight. The couple welcomed their first son, Lue, in 1995, and a second son, Thor, in 2000. Mikkelsen’s linguistic proficiency extends to Danish, English, German, and Swedish, reflecting his diverse cultural interests and intellectual curiosity.

Continuing his vibrant acting career, Lars Mikkelsen was featured in the 2023 television project “Ahsoka.” His voice acting role in 2016’s “Star Wars Rebels” added another dimension to his career. His co-stars in these projects include Rosario Dawson, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Ray Stevenson, and Ivanna Sakhno, highlighting his continued collaboration with prominent figures in the industry.