Richard Ayoade

Richard Ayoade (born May 23, 1977, in Hammersmith, London) is a British screen artist celebrated for a coolly deadpan presence and razor-edged comic timing. Working across acting, writing, directing, and voice performance, he has built a reputation for turning awkwardness and intelligence into compelling, character-driven humor.

Ayoade first became widely recognized through television comedy, most famously as Maurice Moss in the cult sitcom The IT Crowd. His on-screen persona—precise, understated, and quietly absurd—has since carried into a broad range of film and TV roles, while his voice work has made him a distinctive presence in animation.

As a filmmaker, he has also stepped behind the camera, directing feature films such as Submarine (2010) and The Double (2013), projects noted for their stylized tone and offbeat emotional clarity. He has additionally fronted popular entertainment series including Travel Man and The Crystal Maze, expanding his appeal beyond scripted comedy.

Recent and notable credits include The Bad Guys (voice of Professor Marmalade), The Boxtrolls (voice of Mr. Pickles), The Electrical Life of Louis Wain (Henry Wood), The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (Dr. Marshall / Yogi), and The Watch (Jamarcus).