By Admin 
Few actors embody the grace, discipline, and quiet charisma of Adrian Dunbar, the Northern Irish actor best known for his iconic role as Superintendent Ted Hastings in Line of Duty. But beyond that famous catchphrase — “Jesus, Mary, and Joseph and the wee donkey!” — lies a man of incredible depth, talent, and dedication to his craft.
This article explores who Adrian Dunbar is, his age, net worth, his remarkable movies and TV shows, his lesser-known musical career, and the details of his personal life — including his wife, Anna Nygh (sometimes miswritten as Anna Nye), and his children.
Who is Adrian Dunbar?
Adrian Dunbar is a veteran Northern Irish actor, director, screenwriter, and occasional singer. Born on August 1, 1958, in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, he has become one of the most respected names in British television and film.
Raised in a Catholic working-class family, Adrian was the eldest of seven siblings — two brothers and four sisters. His upbringing in a small Irish town instilled in him a sense of community, humility, and perseverance that would later become visible in his acting style: strong yet understated, emotional yet composed.
He studied at St Joseph’s College in Enniskillen and later trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, where he developed the foundation of his professional acting skills. His journey from a small-town boy in Northern Ireland to one of Britain’s most recognized actors is nothing short of inspirational.
Adrian Dunbar’s Age and Early Career
Born in 1958, Adrian Dunbar is 67 years old as of 2025. His career began in the 1980s, during a time when the British film industry was undergoing transformation. His early film appearances were modest, but they quickly showcased his potential for both intensity and warmth on screen.
He first gained attention with roles in films like A World Apart (1988) and My Left Foot (1989), where he acted alongside Daniel Day-Lewis. In My Left Foot, Dunbar played Peter, one of Christy Brown’s friends — a small yet memorable role that demonstrated his ability to hold his own alongside giants of the industry.
However, it was Hear My Song (1991) that brought him widespread recognition. Not only did he star in the film, but he also co-wrote it. The movie — about a nightclub owner who goes searching for legendary Irish tenor Josef Locke — earned a BAFTA nomination for Best Original Screenplay, establishing Dunbar not only as an actor but also as a talented writer.
Film and Television Career: Movies and TV Shows
Film Highlights
Adrian Dunbar’s filmography spans more than three decades, showcasing a mix of leading and supporting roles across drama, crime, and period pieces. Some of his most notable film appearances include:
- My Left Foot (1989) – as Peter
- Hear My Song (1991) – co-writer and lead role as Micky O’Neill
- The Crying Game (1992) – as Maguire, a member of the IRA
- Widows’ Peak (1994) – as O’Hare
- Richard III (1995) – as James Tyrell
- The General (1998) – as Noel Curley
- How Harry Became a Tree (2001) – as George
- Triggermen (2002) – as Andy Jarrett
- Good Vibrations (2012) – a small but significant role in the acclaimed biopic
- The Snowman (2017) – as Frederick Aasen
- Emily (2022) – as Patrick Brontë
While his film roles have been steady and respected, it’s in television where Dunbar has achieved near-legendary status.
Television Stardom
Line of Duty (2012–2021)
Adrian Dunbar became a household name through his portrayal of Superintendent Ted Hastings in the BBC crime thriller Line of Duty. His moral integrity, strong sense of justice, and frequent use of Irish idioms made the character beloved by millions of viewers.
The role not only showcased Dunbar’s command over emotional depth but also highlighted his ability to balance authority with vulnerability. His portrayal of Hastings earned him numerous award nominations and made him one of Britain’s most recognizable television faces.
Ridley (2022–Present)
Following the success of Line of Duty, Dunbar took on another lead role in ITV’s Ridley, where he plays Alex Ridley, a retired detective brought back to consult on complex cases. This role allows Dunbar to merge his love for music and acting, as the character often performs in a jazz club — and yes, that’s actually Dunbar’s voice singing on screen.
Other Notable Television Work
Over the years, Adrian Dunbar has appeared in a wide range of shows, including:
- Ashes to Ashes (2009) as Martin Summers
- Broken as Father Peter Flaherty
- Cracker, A Touch of Frost, Silent Witness, and Murphy’s Law
- The Hollow Crown – a BBC Shakespeare adaptation
- Blood (2018–2020) – a psychological drama where he played the complex patriarch, Jim Hogan
His versatility across drama, crime, and period pieces has made him one of the most respected actors in British television.
Adrian Dunbar’s Musical Side: Songs and Singing
What many fans might not realize is that Adrian Dunbar is also a talented singer and musician. His musical background stems from his time studying at Guildhall, where he trained not just in acting but also in voice performance.
Dunbar has performed Irish folk songs, including the hauntingly beautiful “The Curragh of Kildare”, which he recorded alongside Irish singer Brian Kennedy. His deep, emotive voice gives the song a timeless quality.
He also leads his own band and has performed live in venues across the UK and Ireland, as well as in Nashville and Austin. On Apple Music and Amazon Music, he’s credited with several tracks, including:
- The Curragh of Kildare
- Girl of the Moment
- Liza Liza
- The Best Years of His Life
In Ridley, his character sings regularly, and all the vocals are his own. This blending of music and acting highlights a unique versatility — few actors can transition so seamlessly between emotional drama and heartfelt performance.
Adrian Dunbar’s Net Worth
While celebrity net worth estimates are rarely exact, several entertainment outlets estimate Adrian Dunbar’s net worth to be between $4 million and $5 million as of 2025.
His long-running television career — especially his starring role in Line of Duty — has been his most significant source of income, alongside theater work, directing, and screenwriting. He has also narrated documentaries and voice-over projects, further adding to his earnings.
It’s important to note that Dunbar, unlike many Hollywood stars, has maintained a modest lifestyle and has focused more on quality artistic projects than commercial fame.
Personal Life: Relationships, Wife, and Children
Marriage and Wife – Anna Nygh (Often Miswritten as Anna Nye)
Adrian Dunbar has been married to Anna Nygh, an Australian actress and casting director, since 1986.
Anna has appeared in several British television dramas, including Sweeney 2, Arms and the Man, and Capital City. Later in her career, she transitioned into casting and teaching acting, building a respected name in the industry.
The couple met through mutual friends — with actress Joanne Whalley reportedly introducing them — and their relationship blossomed from there.
Although some online sources incorrectly list her as “Anna Nye,” her correct surname is Nygh. Their marriage is one of the more stable and enduring relationships in British show business, lasting nearly four decades.
Children and Family
Adrian and Anna share one daughter, Madeleine (Maddie) Dunbar, born in 1987. Adrian is also a stepfather to Anna’s son, Ted, from a previous relationship.
Dunbar is deeply family-oriented and has often spoken about how his family has been the emotional anchor throughout his demanding career. In interviews, he has mentioned his pride in being a grandfather, often referring to spending time with his grandchildren in Northern Ireland.
The family primarily resides in Crouch End, North London, though Dunbar often visits his hometown in County Fermanagh.
Adrian Dunbar and Anna Nygh: A Lasting Relationship
In an industry known for fleeting relationships, Adrian Dunbar and Anna Nygh’s marriage stands as a symbol of endurance. Married for almost 40 years, they have managed to keep their relationship private and grounded.
In interviews, Dunbar has credited Anna for providing stability and understanding, allowing him to pursue demanding roles without losing sight of real life. The two occasionally attend public events together, but for the most part, prefer to stay out of the limelight.
This groundedness, many believe, is part of what makes Dunbar so relatable — both on screen and off.
Philosophy, Character, and Public Image
Adrian Dunbar is often described as humble, loyal, and quietly passionate about his craft. His Line of Duty co-stars have spoken about his generosity and his ability to create a sense of calm on set.
He remains proudly Irish, often referencing his cultural roots in interviews and even through his choice of roles that reflect moral integrity and complexity.
He’s also an advocate for supporting Northern Irish arts and talent, frequently encouraging young actors to pursue theater and film.
Conclusion
From a small town in Northern Ireland to international fame, Adrian Dunbar’s journey is one of perseverance, authenticity, and artistic brilliance. He has built a career that spans over three decades — from acting and writing to singing and directing — all while maintaining a strong moral compass and an unshakable love for his family.
Whether as Superintendent Ted Hastings, Alex Ridley, or a singer behind a mic performing a soulful Irish tune, Adrian Dunbar continues to inspire audiences with his timeless talent and humanity.
His story is not just that of a successful actor, but of a man who found balance between fame and family, passion and humility.
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