Sam Riley Biography: Wikipedia, Age, Wife, Net Worth, Movies, Maleficent, Career, Songs

Samuel Peter W. Riley, known professionally as Sam Riley, is a British actor and singer celebrated for his intense performances in films such as Control, where he portrayed Joy Division frontman Ian Curtis, and Maleficent, where he played Diaval.

With a career spanning independent cinema and major Hollywood productions, Riley brings a brooding authenticity to his roles, complemented by his musical talents as the former lead singer of the band 10,000 Things.

Profile

• Full Name: Samuel Peter W. Riley
• Stage Name: Sam Riley
• Born: 8, January 1980
• Age: 45 years old
• Birthplace: Menston, West Yorkshire, England
• Nationality: British
• Occupation: Actor, Singer
• Height: 1.85m
• Parents: Amanda Riley, Andrew Riley
• Siblings: Annabel Riley, Jack Riley, George Riley
• Spouse: Alexandra Maria Lara (m. 2009)
• Children: 1
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $1 million

Early Life and Education

Sam Riley was born on January 8, 1980, in Menston, West Yorkshire, England, to Amanda Riley, a nursery school teacher, and Andrew Riley, a textile agent.

He grew up with two brothers, Jack and George Riley, and a sister, Annabel Riley, in a close-knit family.

Riley attended Malsis School and later Uppingham School, where he developed an interest in drama and music, though he did not pursue formal acting training.

His ethnicity is Caucasian, and his religious beliefs are not publicly disclosed.

Career

Sam Riley began his career as the lead singer of the Leeds-based band 10,000 Things, which gained modest success in the early 2000s before disbanding.

His acting debut came with the starring role in Control (2007), a biographical film about Ian Curtis, directed by Anton Corbijn.

Riley’s raw, immersive performance earned him critical acclaim and awards, including a British Independent Film Award, marking his arrival as a serious talent in cinema.

Riley followed with roles in films like Franklyn (2008) and Brighton Rock (2010), showcasing his ability to portray complex, often troubled characters.

His role as Diaval in Maleficent (2014) and its sequel Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019) brought him mainstream recognition, blending charm and loyalty in a fantasy blockbuster.

He also starred in On the Road (2012) as Sal Paradise, capturing the restless spirit of Jack Kerouac’s novel, and in The Dark Valley (2014), a German-language Western.

Riley continues to balance indie and mainstream projects, with recent roles in Rebecca (2020) and The Vault (2021).

His musical background informs his performances, adding depth to roles that require emotional intensity.

His selective approach to projects and dedication to authentic storytelling have solidified his reputation as a versatile actor with a lasting impact on film.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @sam.riley.

Personal Life

Sam Riley married German-Romanian actress Alexandra Maria Lara in 2009 after meeting on the set of Control.

They have one son, born in January 2014, whose name remains private.

Based in Berlin, Riley leads a low-key life, focusing on family and his craft.

He enjoys music, often playing guitar, and maintains a private demeanor, rarely sharing personal details.

His support for independent arts and his connection to his Yorkshire roots reflect his grounded personality.

Filmography

• Control (2007)
• Franklyn (2008)
• Brighton Rock (2010)
• On the Road (2012)
• Maleficent (2014)
• The Dark Valley (2014)
• Pride and Prejudice and Zombies (2016)
• Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019)
• Rebecca (2020)
• The Vault (2021)

Net Worth

Sam Riley has an estimated net worth of $1 million.

His wealth primarily comes from his acting roles in films like Control and Maleficent, as well as residuals from his work in independent and mainstream cinema.

Additional income from his earlier music career with 10,000 Things and occasional endorsements contributes to his financial standing, reflecting his steady presence in the entertainment industry.