John Simm was born on 10th July 1970 in Leeds, West Yorkshire and grew up in Nelson, Lancashire. He attended Edge End High School, Nelson, Lancs followed by Blackpool Drama College at 16 and the Drama Centre, London at 18. He lives with his long term partner, actress, Kate Magowan and his son Ryan (born 13th August 2001). Simm won the best actor award at the Valencia Film Festival for his film debut in Boston Kickout (1996).


Sang the "acoustic" version of New Order's "Blue Monday" in 24 Hour Party People (2002) during the split screen scene. Voted Best Guest Actor by readers of Doctor Who Magazine for his roles as Harold Saxon and The Master in the 2007 Season of Doctor Who.