Narrowing down the talents and charms of one Benedict Timothy Carlton Cumberbatch to just five is no easy task. Though it may seem like the 38-year-old Brit actor has only recently come on the scene, thanks to his sit-up-and-take-notice, pitch-perfect performance as Sherlock Holmes, dedicated fans know better. Though he’s undoubtedly experiencing the kind of golden moment most actors would gladly give their right arm (and possibly a leg) for, the London-born, recently engaged thesp has been a jobbing actor for more than a decade and a critically-acclaimed one for almost as long.
From his BAFTA-nominated performances in “Hawking” (2004) and “Small Island” (2009), to charismatic but smaller turns in Starter For 10 (2006) and Atonement (2007), Cumberbatch was already making a name for himself before he was approached to audition for the titular role in Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss‘s modern BBC look at Conan Doyle’s famous detective. The role marked a turning point in the actor’s career, taking him from appreciated industry stalwart to international superstar.
He’s taken full advantage of the opportunities his new-found fame has afforded him, taking smaller parts in acclaimed films (Tinker Tailer Solider Spy, War Horse, 12 Years A Slave, August: Osage County) to scene-stealing roles in blockbuster franchises (Star Trek Into Darkness, The Hobbit) to starring roles in less-fantastical fare (The Fifth Estate, The Imitation Game). Jumping from one role to another, seemingly without taking a breath, Cumberbatch has managed to become one of the most in-demand and ubiquitous actors in the industry.
(Watch our two-part Imitation Game interview with Cumberbatch)
For those of us lucky enough to have been following the down-to-earth actor’s rise to fame, both pre-and-post Sherlock, there’s an odd sort of joy watching the rest of the world cotton on to his unique appeal. With talent, intellect, affability, wit, energy, spontaneity and authenticity to spare, not to mention those striking eyes and cheekbones, it’s certainly not hard to see why Cumberbatch has inspired such a loyal, devoted and ever-increasing following. Contrary to recent, sensationalized media reports, the overwhelming fan response of the “CumberCollective” to his recently announced engagement was not to decry their “loss” but to cheer his happiness. If that doesn’t sum up his appeal right there, we don’t know what does.
But enough talking about everyone else has fallen in love with the frumious and scrumptious Cumberbatch, it’s time for us to wax philosophical – via the medium of video – on the five reasons we fell head-over-heels for the actor.
Agree or disagree with our choices? Weigh in with you very own Cumberbatch-loving reasons below!
Emma Badame, Portfolio 
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