Ben Chaplin, one of four children, was born Benedict John Greenwood in London, England, the son of Cynthia, a drama teacher, and Peter Greenwood, an engineer.

He was raised in Windsor, Berkshire, England and attended PMRF (Princess Margaret Royal Free) School & the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

Chaplin is an English actor who first came to public attention for his performance as Matthew Malone in the first series of the sitcom Game On.

After departing the series (his character was later acted by Neil Stuke) he co-starred in several movies including The Truth About Cats and Dogs, Terrence Malick's The Thin Red Line, Murder By Numbers, The Touch with Michelle Yeoh and Birthday Girl.

He has also worked on the stage, including in Neil LaBute's play This Is How It Goes. He received an Olivier Award Nomination for Best Supporting Performer in The Glass Menagerie and a Tony Award Nomination for Best Featured Actor for The Retreat From Moscow.