Freddie Highmore is starring as Edward in Prime Video's high-octane thriller, The Assassin, in which he plays the estranged son of retired assassin Julie (played by Keeley Hawes).

The English actor has spent most of his life in the spotlight, having landed some huge TV and film roles as a child, from playing Charlie in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to Peter in Finding Neverland.

Later in his career, he had major roles in ABC's The Good Doctor and Bates Motel. The Cambridge graduate also has a fascinating life off-screen, and has achieved so much in his 33 years.

The star was born in London, with his mother being a talent agent whose clients include Harry Potter stars Daniel Radcliffe and Imelda Staunton.

His father, Edward Highmore, is a former actor, so he has always been destined for the screen.

Fans may be interested to hear he was not born with the name Freddie, as his real name is Alfred Thomas Highmore.

He uses his nickname, Freddie, as his professional name.

As a high-flying student, he achieved top marks in Spanish and Arabic at Emmanuel College and later studied finance.

While filming the first two seasons of Bates Motel, he actually worked at a law firm in Madrid during his year abroad.

He had briefly considered becoming a lawyer after his graduation.

As for his personal life, he lives in London but avoids social media, so not much is known about his relationships.

He did open up about developing a close friendship with co-star Vera Farmiga on Bates Motel, and became godfather to her son.

The star also revealed he was married during an interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in 2021.

Keeping his wife's identity a secret, he shared: "I just still can't get over the terminology and the vocab, like a 'married man' just sounds very old and 'my wife' sounds very possessive.

"We don't really use that yet, but we just point to the rings and be like, 'Here, look, draw your own conclusions'."

He did confirm that his wife is British.

The Assassin airs on Prime Video