James Purefoy is an English actor born on June 3, 1964, in Taunton, Somerset. He is best known for his roles in television and film, particularly for portraying Mark Antony in the HBO series Rome and Joe Carroll in the thriller series The Following. Purefoy has appeared in various films, including A Knight's Tale and Solomon Kane. He has received acclaim for his performances and has built a diverse career in both dramatic and action roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor.