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The British invade American TV

Born Andrew Clutterbuck in London, Lincoln plays Rick Grimes, a former Georgia sheriff's deputy leading a group of survivors in a world overrun by flesh-eating zombies in AMC's "The Walking Dead." In Season 3 another British actor, David Morrissey, was cast as Grime's sadistic nemesis, the Governor.

Born Andrew Clutterbuck in London, Lincoln plays Rick Grimes, a former Georgia sheriff’s deputy leading a group of survivors in a world overrun by flesh-eating zombies in AMC’s “The Walking Dead.” In Season 3 another British actor, David Morrissey, was cast as Grime’s sadistic nemesis, the Governor.  (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

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The British aren’t coming -- they’re already here invading our TV shows disguised as Americans. This is not a new phenomenon, although many fans of “House” were surprised to learn that their favorite cantankerous, pill-popping doctor was actually a classically trained British actor (Hugh Laurie). Whether it’s their centuries-old tradition of theater training, dedication to the craft or just a fresh face, a new wave of talented actors from the U.K. are successfully taking on leading roles on hit series in the U.S. Here’s a look at the recent crop.

Freddie Highmore and Vera Farmiga star in the new A&E series 'Bates Motel.'

Freddie Highmore is best known for his genteel roles in “Finding Neverland” and “Charlie and Chocolate Factory.” “Bates Motel” is the English actor’s first foray in an American TV show. He takes on a geeky teenage version of Norman Bates in this contemporary prequel to the film “Psycho.”  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

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