Who Is Iwan Rheon? Biography, Career, Family & More

Iwan Rheon is a Welsh actor, singer, and songwriter who has earned worldwide recognition through memorable performances in television, film, and theater. Best known for playing the ruthless Ramsay Bolton in Game of Thrones and the fan-favorite Simon Bellamy in Misfits, Rheon has showcased remarkable versatility across a wide range of roles. Beyond acting, he has also built a successful music career, releasing multiple EPs and studio albums that highlight his talents as a singer-songwriter.

Despite portraying some of television’s most notorious villains, Rheon is known off-screen for his quiet personality and commitment to maintaining a private family life. His ability to balance acting, music, and personal privacy has helped him remain one of Wales’ most respected entertainers. Here’s everything you need to know about Iwan Rheon, including his biography, career, family, and more.

Iwan Rheon at a Glance

Iwan Rheon was born on May 13, 1985, in Carmarthen, Wales. When he was five years old, his family moved to Cardiff, where he developed a passion for acting during his school years. After being recognized for his stage talent, he went on to study at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) before launching his professional acting career.

Rheon first gained recognition in the Welsh television series Pobol y Cwm before earning critical acclaim in the stage production of Spring Awakening, a performance that won him the 2010 Olivier Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical. His international breakthrough came as Simon Bellamy in Misfits, followed by his unforgettable portrayal of Ramsay Bolton in HBO’s Game of Thrones. He has since appeared in productions including The Dirt, Inhumans, Riviera, and Those About to Die, establishing himself as one of Britain’s most versatile actors.

Iwan Rheon earned worldwide recognition for portraying the unforgettable Ramsay Bolton in Game of Thrones (Image via HBO)

Away from acting, Rheon has maintained a parallel music career. After serving as the lead singer of the band The Convictions, he released several solo EPs before debuting his album Dinard in 2015. His acoustic folk-inspired sound reflects a different creative side, allowing him to balance music alongside his acting commitments.

In his personal life, Rheon is fluent in both Welsh and English, with Welsh being his first language. He previously shared a long-term relationship with actress and photographer Zoë Grisedale, and the couple welcomed a son in 2018. Although they reportedly separated in 2023, Rheon has continued to keep his family life largely private, rarely discussing it publicly.

Today, Iwan Rheon continues to enjoy a successful career across television, film, music, and theater. Whether portraying complex villains or recording original music, he has built a reputation for versatility, earning admiration from audiences around the world while remaining grounded away from the spotlight.