Nick Mohammed is a British comedian, actor, writer, and producer born October 4, 1980, in Leeds, West Yorkshire, who studied geophysics at Durham University before pursuing comedy. He developed the acclaimed stage persona “Mr. Swallow,” appeared in sitcoms like “Miranda” and “Life’s Too Short,” and gained international recognition portraying Nathan Shelley in Apple TV+’s “Ted Lasso,” earning Emmy nominations for his versatile performances across television, radio, and stage that showcase his distinctive character-driven humor and extensive entertainment expertise.
A versatile performer who has successfully shifted from academic pursuits in geophysics to become a prominent figure in British comedy, Nick Mohammed stands as a multi-talented actor, writer, and comedian known for his distinctive character work and stage performances. Born in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England on October 4, 1980, Mohammed initially followed an academic trajectory, studying geophysics at the University of Durham, where he graduated with first-class honors and first became involved in local comedy circuits.
His educational journey included offers from Cambridge University, first after secondary school and later for a doctorate in seismology, though he did not complete the doctoral course. During his time at Cambridge, Mohammed joined the prestigious Footlights Revue, performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where his talent was discovered by a BBC producer who facilitated his early radio work.
Cambridge beckoned twice for Mohammed – first for undergraduate studies, then doctoral seismology research – though comedy ultimately proved more seismic than earthquakes.
Mohammed’s breakthrough came through the creation of his acclaimed stage persona “Mr. Swallow,” which garnered considerable critical praise and became the vehicle for various theatrical productions. The Mr. Swallow character starred in notable reworkings including “Dracula” in 2014 and a Harry Houdini production featuring nightly performances in a glass tank. The success of the Mr. Swallow Houdini show led to its transfer from Edinburgh to London’s Soho Theatre in 2017, cementing Mohammed’s reputation in live performance.
His television and film career spans numerous productions, including appearances in popular sitcoms such as “Miranda” in 2009 and “Life’s Too Short” in 2011. Mohammed became particularly recognized for portraying the annoying promotions manager in “Drifters” in 2013, while also featuring in BBC One’s “Reggie Perrin” and BBC Three’s “The King Is Dead.” His guest appearances extended to series including “How Not to Live Your Life” and “Alex Horne Presents The Horne Section,” with recent association to “Douglas Is Cancelled” in 2024. Mohammed achieved significant international recognition starring as Nathan Shelley in the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ series “Ted Lasso” from 2020 to 2023.
Radio work remains central to Mohammed’s career, maintaining a consistent presence on BBC Radio 4 through his debut show and the series “Nick Mohammed in Bits.” His voice work and radio comedy performances contributed considerably to building his early career reputation and broader recognition within comedy circles. In his personal life, Mohammed married Becca in 2014 and they have three children together: sons Finn and Arthur, and daughter Annie.
Standing 5’4½” tall, Mohammed has received substantial recognition for his work, earning two Primetime Emmy Award nominations and accumulating two wins alongside ten total nominations across various acting and comedy awards. His professional versatility encompasses roles as actor, comedian, writer, and producer, with particular acclaim for blending wit, physical comedy, and character-driven humor across stage, radio, and television formats.
