British actor Daniel Mays is returning to television in one of the most challenging roles of his career, starring in ITV’s new true-crime drama Believe Me. While the four-part series places him at the centre of a dark and disturbing story, the actor’s life away from the screen remains grounded in family and privacy.
Known for standout performances in productions such as Line of Duty and The Long Shadow, the 48-year-old has built a reputation as one of Britain’s most versatile actors. Off-camera, however, he has largely kept his personal life out of the spotlight.
Longstanding Relationship and Family Life
Mays has been with makeup artist Louise Burton for more than two decades. The couple married in August 2018 after spending 14 years together.
The actor previously reflected on the emotional period that led to their wedding, explaining that the decision came after Burton experienced the loss of both of her parents in a short span of time. He described the ceremony as an important moment for their family.
The couple have spent years building a quiet life together in North London, where they are raising their two children.
In recent years, Mays has occasionally shared glimpses of his family life on social media, including heartfelt tributes to his wife and children. In one message posted last year, he expressed appreciation for Burton and the support she has provided throughout their relationship.
Proud Father of Two
Mays and Burton are parents to son Mylo Mays and daughter Dixie Mays.
Their son Mylo, born in 2005, briefly explored acting during childhood and appeared in the West End production of Matilda. Mays has often spoken warmly about his son, describing him as one of the most important influences in his life.
The actor has also shared affectionate messages about his daughter Dixie, praising her personality and sense of humour. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mays took on additional family responsibilities after his wife suffered a broken leg, balancing caregiving duties with homeschooling his daughter while his son prepared for exams.
More recently, Mays revealed that he and Dixie attended The Eras Tour by Taylor Swift in 2024, calling the experience a memorable father-daughter moment.
Fatherhood Changed His Perspective
Mays has spoken candidly about how becoming a parent transformed both his personal life and professional outlook. Reflecting on fatherhood in a past interview, he admitted that becoming a parent initially came as an unexpected surprise.
Over time, however, he said the experience brought stability, responsibility and a stronger sense of purpose. He credited parenthood with helping him mature both emotionally and creatively, adding that it ultimately made him a stronger actor as well as a better person.
As Believe Me premieres, Mays continues to balance demanding dramatic roles with a family life he has chosen to keep largely private — a contrast that has only deepened public interest in the actor behind the performances.
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Source: Owink
