Jimmy Nail, the working-class lad from Newcastle, carved out a unique space in British entertainment with his rough-hewn charm and multi-talented flair. It was as Oz, one of the gritty bricklayers in the hugely popular “Auf Wiedersehen Pet” (1983–84), that Jimmy Nail first caught the public’s eye. The show became a cultural phenomenon, and naturally, audiences warmed to Jimmy Nail’s raw authenticity. After making a splash across the pond with roles in American TV miniseries like “Master of the Game” (CBS, 1984) and “Wallenberg: A Hero’s Story” (NBC, 1985), Jimmy Nail returned triumphantly to reprise his role in the second season of “Auf Wiedersehen Pet” in 1986.
Not content to rest on early success, Jimmy Nail went on to co-create and star in the BBC series “Spender” (1991–93), where he brought depth and quiet melancholy to the role of a brooding detective. His creative drive didn’t stop there—Jimmy Nail took the reins again with “Crocodile Shoes” (BBC, 1994), a project he wrote, co-executive produced, and headlined, playing a factory worker from Newcastle who dreams of becoming a country singer-songwriter. The role felt close to home, echoing Jimmy Nail’s own roots and musical passions.
On the big screen, Jimmy Nail delivered a standout performance as Augustin Magaldi, the charismatic tango singer who ushers a young Eva Peron into the world of Buenos Aires nightlife in the film adaptation of “Evita.” Critics praised his magnetic presence and vocal prowess. Back on television, he revisited his earlier success with “Crocodile Shoes II” (1997), further cementing Jimmy Nail’s reputation as a storyteller unafraid to blend music and drama.
Later, Jimmy Nail reunited with the writing duo behind “Auf Wiedersehen Pet,” Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais, for the rock-and-redemption film “Still Crazy” (1998). In it, he played a former band frontman now laboring as a roofer—a role that, once again, resonated with Jimmy Nail’s everyman image and artistic versatility. Through each chapter of his career, Jimmy Nail has remained true to his origins, bringing heart, grit, and soul to every performance.
When it comes to Jimmy Nail’s film career, one movie really stands out as his highest rated—Still Crazy from 1998. It’s often praised by both critics and fans alike, making it a clear highlight in Jimmy Nail’s body of work. On the other hand, going through his filmography, the movie that tends to receive the least favorable reviews is Crusoe, released back in 1988. While Jimmy Nail has taken on a variety of roles over the years, these two films mark the top and bottom in terms of critical reception. So, if you’re exploring Jimmy Nail’s performances, Still Crazy is definitely the one to watch first, whereas Crusoe might not be at the top of the list for most viewers. Overall, Jimmy Nail’s journey in cinema shows a range of experiences, with some shining moments and a few less successful ones along the way.