Netflix fans are eager to learn more about comedy legend Steve Coogan after his recent role in the British 1990s-set thriller Legends, which premiered on May 7. The six-part series is based on an incredible true story, following customs officers who adopt alter-egos to infiltrate Britain's most notorious drug gangs during Margaret Thatcher's war on drugs. Coogan plays Don, the head of a top-secret group operating with minimal training, no budget, and no official recognition.
Steve Coogan's Famous Ex-Girlfriends
Coogan has dated several high-profile figures, most notably Courtney Love, the widow of Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain. Their brief fling was described by Love in a 2021 social media post as "one of my life's great shames," comparing it to her solo album America's Sweetheart. Coogan told GQ of their time together: "Some of it was true, most of it was b******s. To borrow the title of the film [2005's A Cock and Bull Story], it was 20 per cent cock and 80 per cent bull." He was also linked to model China Chow (2008–2011), model Elle Basey (2011–2014), and TV presenter Melanie Sykes (2018–2019). Coogan has a daughter, Clare Coogan Cole, with TV producer Anna Cole. Since 2021, he is reportedly dating model and actress Caitlin Walsh.
Steve Coogan's Real Accent
Coogan grew up in Middleton, Lancashire, and studied in Manchester. He recently noted that he rarely uses his natural accent in roles until Legends. He said: "It was quite nice to play someone who is from the North of England, which is where I’m from. It’s the first time I’ve been able to do my unfiltered, native accent." He described his character Don as "no-nonsense and plain speaking," someone who cares deeply about his team despite a blunt exterior.
Steve Coogan's 'Terrifying' Ordeal
In his 2015 book Easily Distracted, Coogan recounted a "truly terrifying cocaine-induced panic attack" in 1992 while living in Edinburgh. After being up all night doing drugs, he felt dizzy and on the verge of blacking out. A friend took him to hospital, where a doctor diagnosed a panic attack. Coogan left despite being advised to stay overnight, fearing media coverage. The panic attacks led to depression, and he sought therapy, learning breathing exercises to manage feelings of "impending catastrophe." He later resumed cocaine use, spending tens of thousands of pounds on addiction. In the 2020 book Don't Look Back In Anger, he admitted performing shows while still intoxicated. Though he has since quit drugs, Coogan still considers himself an addict.
Legends is streaming on Netflix now.
