The Unconventional Life Of Jonny Lee Miller: 7 Shocking Facts About The 'Sick Boy' Actor And His Latest 2025 Projects

Jonny Lee Miller remains one of the most enigmatic and versatile actors working today, effortlessly transitioning between iconic roles like the drug-addled 'Sick Boy' in Trainspotting and the meticulous detective 'Sherlock Holmes' in Elementary. As of December 15, 2025, the British star is gearing up for a major new television project, a Sky Original thriller that promises to showcase his dramatic range once again, proving his career is far from slowing down.

This article dives deep into the celebrated actor's unconventional life, his most recent career moves, and the surprising details about his personal world, including his life as a dedicated runner and his unique relationship with ex-wife Angelina Jolie. Get ready to uncover the latest updates and the little-known facts about the man who brought some of modern cinema's most memorable characters to life.

The Complete Biography and Profile of Jonathan Lee Miller

Jonathan Lee Miller, known professionally as Jonny Lee Miller, has carved out a career defined by intense, transformative performances across film, television, and theatre. Born into a theatrical family, his path to stardom was almost predestined, yet his choices—from his early breakthrough to his most recent roles—have consistently defied expectation. His profile is marked by a blend of classic British training and a distinctly American sensibility, cultivated through years of living and working in New York.

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• Full Name: Jonathan Lee Miller
• Date of Birth: November 15, 1972
• Age (as of Dec 2025): 53 years old
• Place of Birth: Kingston upon Thames, London, England, UK
• Nationality: British
• Education: Attended Tiffin School and later the National Youth Music Theatre.
• Profession: Actor
• Notable Roles: Simon "Sick Boy" Williamson in Trainspotting, Sherlock Holmes in Elementary, John Major in The Crown.
• Marital Status: Divorced (Twice)
• Ex-Wives: Angelina Jolie (m. 1996; div. 2000), Michele Hicks (m. 2008; div. 2018).
• Child: Son, Buster Timothy Miller (born 2008).
• Estimated Net Worth: Between $10 million and $14 million.
• Unique Distinction: Volunteer firefighter in New York City.

Latest Career Moves: From West End to Sky Original Thrillers

The year 2025 continues a strong run for Jonny Lee Miller, who has successfully balanced high-profile television with a return to his theatrical roots. His career strategy demonstrates a commitment to challenging, character-driven roles over mere commercial appeal, solidifying his status as an actor’s actor.

The Upcoming Sky Original Thriller: Inheritance

One of the most anticipated projects featuring Miller is the new Sky Original thriller, Inheritance. Announced in late 2025, Miller is set to star alongside a stellar cast including Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Sheldon Shepherd, and Bel Powley. While plot details are tightly guarded, the involvement of such high-caliber talent suggests a complex, character-focused narrative, a genre where Miller consistently excels. This role marks a significant return to a major television series following his acclaimed turn in The Crown.

A Return to the Stage: The Success of A Mirror

In a move that delighted theatre critics and fans, Miller starred in Sam Holcroft's acclaimed play, A Mirror. The production, which premiered at the Almeida Theatre, proved so successful that it transferred to the West End in January 2024. Miller's performance in the play was lauded for its intensity and nuance, reminding audiences of his foundation in live performance. Sharing the stage with actors like Tanya Reynolds (of Sex Education fame) further highlighted his collaborative spirit in the arts.

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The Political Transformation: Playing John Major in The Crown

Miller's 2022 portrayal of former British Prime Minister John Major in the fifth season of the Netflix historical drama The Crown was a critical and popular success. The role required a subtle, transformative performance, capturing the essence of a real-life political figure during a turbulent period. This project broadened his appeal and demonstrated his ability to inhabit roles far removed from his previous work as 'Sick Boy' or 'Sherlock Holmes'. The contrast between his political drama role and his earlier, edgier characters is a testament to his impressive versatility.

Beyond the Screen: 5 Surprising Facts About Jonny Lee Miller's Private Life

While his on-screen career is widely documented, Jonny Lee Miller's personal life is full of surprising and unconventional details that reveal a man dedicated to service, fitness, and maintaining unique family bonds.

1. He is a Dedicated Volunteer Firefighter in New York City

Perhaps the most unexpected fact about the actor is his commitment to serving his community as a volunteer firefighter in New York. Living mainly in New York, Miller dedicates a significant amount of his time to this high-risk, selfless work. This commitment to physical and civic duty offers a profound contrast to the glamorous world of Hollywood, underscoring his grounded nature and desire for a life of purpose beyond acting.

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2. The 'Wonderful' Relationship with Ex-Wife Angelina Jolie

Miller’s first marriage to actress Angelina Jolie in 1996 was a media sensation, partly due to the unconventional wedding where Jolie wore black rubber pants and a white shirt with Miller's name written in her blood. Despite the marriage being short-lived (divorcing in 2000), their relationship has endured as a close friendship. In February 2025, Jolie publicly spoke about their "wonderful relationship" years later, confirming that they remain important figures in each other's lives. This mature, continued bond is a rare example of Hollywood exes maintaining a deep connection.

3. He is an Ultra-Marathon Runner

Miller is not just a casual runner; he is a dedicated athlete who participates in ultra-marathons. His passion for extreme endurance running, which involves races much longer than the traditional 26.2 miles, speaks to his intense discipline and mental fortitude. This hobby likely contributes to the lean, fit physique he maintains and mirrors the intense focus he brings to his acting roles, whether he is playing the volatile 'Sick Boy' or the highly energetic 'Sherlock Holmes'.

4. He Has a Strong Theatrical Pedigree

Miller's grandfather was the acclaimed actor Bernard Lee, best known for playing 'M' in the early James Bond films. This family connection to the world of performance provided a strong foundation for his own career. His early training at the National Youth Music Theatre and his frequent returns to the London stage, such as with A Mirror, showcase his respect for the craft and his training in classical performance.

5. His Iconic Role as Sherlock Holmes Lasted Seven Seasons

While many associate him with Trainspotting, Miller’s longest and most consistent role was as the titular detective in the CBS series Elementary. Running for seven seasons, his portrayal of 'Sherlock Holmes'—a recovering opioid addict working in modern-day New York—was a fresh, critically praised take on the classic character. The show, which ended its run six years ago, has recently seen a spiritual successor in the new show *Watson*, proving the enduring popularity and influence of Miller's interpretation of the iconic detective. This long-running success cemented his status as a major television star in the United States.

The Continuing Legacy

Jonny Lee Miller's career is a masterclass in reinvention. From his breakthrough role in the seminal film Trainspotting to his recent, politically charged work in The Crown and his upcoming high-stakes thriller Inheritance, he consistently chooses projects that challenge him and engage audiences. His life off-screen, marked by his dedication as a volunteer firefighter and an ultra-marathon runner, reveals a man who values discipline, service, and a life lived fully. As he moves into 2026, fans eagerly await the next chapter from this truly unique and captivating British talent.