The main character is Tom Quinn, played by Matthew Macfadyen. He is normally always involved in all the big storylines and is perceived to be the big hitter within the department; he has a close relationship with Harry, the head of MI5, and normally leads a team of other agents, more often than not, Zoe and Danny. There is friction in the department between himself and Tessa, because although they are actually both at the same level, Tom is perceived to be Harry's 'favourite'. Tom's only downfall is his commitment and dedication to his job, and it is because of this, that his relationships have suffered outside of work, as he neglects his duties to friends and family. As an actor Macfadyen was trained at RADA and has appeared in many BBC Dramas, as well as starring in several feature films and having done a lot of Shakespeare work on stage.

 

Zoe Reynolds, played by Keeley Hawes is a vital member of the team. She is also a key player in most storylines and an asset to Tom's team. Zoe aims high and one day aspires to be like Tessa, although sometimes finds herself struggling with her own moral values, and whether she believes what she is doing is the right thing, she is an extremely clever agent and excellent undercover, however sometimes lets herself slip, which can land her in trouble. In 'Spooks' she shares a flat with fellow agent Danny, who can sometimes be seen lusting after her, she is in and out of relationships and can never seem to find the right guy, with the pressures such a job can put on a relationship. In real life, Keeley Hawes is married with children to fellow 'Spooks' actor Matthew Macfadyen, she learnt the tricks of the trade at Sylvia Young Theatre School with such famous names as Dani Behr.

 

Danny Hunter, played by David Oyelowo is another young, high flying member of MI5. He is good at his job, but sometimes thinks he's too good and takes things too far whilst trying to prove this, unlike others in the team, he is attracted to the glitz and glamour of the job, but sometimes this can go to his head and prove costly. Danny just like any other young man of his age likes the high life and likes to show-off, this has landed him in debt as he tries to pay the high rent on his luxury apartment with his meagre MI5 salary. Oyelowo is famously known for being the first black man to be cast as the King of England, when he played the lead role in the stage production 'Henry VI'. In his own words "I kind of fell into acting. I did Theatre Studies at A-Level and I had a very inspiring teacher who suggested I could do it for real".

 

Harry Pearce, played by Peter Firth is the head of MI5 and is much respected by everyone at Thames House. Much like Tom he is dedicated to the cause and often puts his job before everything else, he personally feels that he can make a difference. It is apparent at points that Harry was formerly in the army, and this experience has clearly allowed him to revel in his role as head of MI5. At times Harry seems to be a rather emotionless character, on the other hand there is a lighter side to Harry when he's not busy making tough decisions, he likes to have a laugh and joke with the rest of the team as much as the next person. As an actor Firth has a numerous accolades to his name, and has many years experience in film and TV. Some notable roles are in Hollywood blockbuster ' Pearl Harbor' and the well known TV show 'Cracker'.

 

Tessa Phillips, played by Jenny Agutter is part of the old guard, she likes things done her way, and that's the old way. She has been stuck in the same position for years and is some what frustrated with her lack of opportunities, she now sees herself as a direct rival to Tom, who is at the same position as her, but with far less experience, and this cannot be a good thing in a team that relies on working well together. She is not everyone's favourite person, but is not totally disliked, the main thing others hold against her is her spitefulness towards Tom, who everyone else likes greatly. Outside of 'Spooks' Agutter has enjoyed much success in Hollywood, starring in many films, and is also no stranger to TV.