The Secret Life of Hannah Dodkin

Under the glare of the attention now focused on her husband, Kris Marshall, is to be found the strong, silent force of Hannah Dodkin. And while Kris has charmed millions throughout his careers in Love Actually, My Family and Death in Paradise, Hannah has gone a different direction, far from sparkling red carpets and public scrutiny. Its a tale of love, fortitude, and a resolute dedication to family which has had an undeniable impact on Kris’s career and their life together.

This blog takes a look at who Hannah Dodkin is, her life with Kris Marshall and just how instrumental she has been in Kris’ career decisions and family life.

Who is Hannah Dodkin?

Hannah Dodkin was born on January 1, 1970, in the United Kingdom celebrating her 54th birthday in 2024. For someone who has been married to a high-profile actor for so long, very little about her early life is public information, and that’s not an accident. Some months ago, Hannah said she values her privacy, that she prefers a “normal” life to the razzle-dazzle of showbusiness.

But opting to remain out of the limelight does not make her presence go unnoticed. Her impact can be seen on several of Kris’ critical decisions throughout the years — from big career leaps to decisions that reflect both of their interests as parents and partners.

Kris and Hannah’s Love Story

Kris and Hannah first met in 2010 and they fell in love. Their bond was strong and instantaneous, with Kris popping the question one year later in November 2011. The pair were married in February 2012 in Wells Somerset and have shared a perfect partnership.

No starry celebrity wedding was in the cards, Hannah and Kris instead choosing a small ceremony with close friends (but only about 30), and family. Their love of simplicity and authenticity that much of the world seems to lack was featured at their winter celebration, featured here, which was full of charm.

Family Life in Bath, Somerset

Kris and Hannah began their family after their wedding, first their son, Thomas, then daughter, Elsie. Desiring a stable and secure environment for their young family, the Marshalls decided to relocate to the beautiful city of Bath in Somerset. They did this because they wanted to raise their children in a more serene and normal manner compared to entertainment industry chaos.

Bath was the perfect place for family life and Hannah and Kris enjoyed the simple pleasures of bringing up their children. School pickups, family dinners and visits to nearby attractions have accounted for most of their time together. The Marshalls have kept their children out of the spotlight and the result is a tight-knit family that stands together in the face of adversity.

Kris Career: How Hannah Plays a Role in It

One of the most high profile examples of Hannah’s influence was Kris’s exit from the hit BBC show Death in Paradise in 2017. And though the show’s tropical port of call in Guadeloupe may have appeared idyllic, Kris explained in interviews that it was not an ideal environment for a burgeoning family. His son, Thomas, was flourishing on the beach but struggling in the classroom, and Kris and Hannah began to worry about how to give their children a more balanced life.

Hannah’s common sense and family-first outlook was influential in Kris’s decision to walk away from the show. Kris has admitted to am870 that she inspired him to take a time out from his career and take care of their family. This shared interest in family values has deepened their relationship and influenced the journey they’ve shared together.

Juggling work and Family

It is testament to Hannah’s strength and ability to keep many balls in the air that she is a mother, partner and anchor for their family. Even as her husband, a workaholic, makes nearly impossible demands on her time and energy, she keeps house as a haven of constancy and succor. However, while Kris continues to be celebrated for his professional success, what most don’t know is that back behind the scenes the one who’s been keeping it all together, ensuring that family is the No. 1 priority, is Miss Hannah.

She also helps guide Kris through his career, being his sounding board to make more purposeful career decisions that match with their values. Roping off territory for her family: ‘Of showing the way’ Whether it’s walking away from a blockbuster show or selecting roles that accommodate more time at home, Hannah’s wisdom and steadfast backing have been priceless.

The Quiet Force Behind Kris Marshall’s Success

Hannah Dodkin is grace, strength, and class all in one. She could, if she’d been so inclined to live a life in the spotlight with her husband, chose another way. By choosing family, discretion, and value to Kris on a professional and personal level, tells us a lot about her core.

Whether it’s shaping life-defining career choices, to nurturing his down-to-earth family life, Hannah has made a sweeping impact on Kris Marshall’s life and career. Her story is a reminder that sometimes, true strength doesn’t require a spotlight, but stems instead from the quiet resiliency of just showing up.

Remembering Hannah Dodkin: Assemblies and more…

Hannah Dodkin This is a story of significance & not because Hannah strives for fame, but because her life is an example of living with good values. She’s been such a rock for Kris and the kids – and has shown that grannies can be tough when they have to be!

When you watch Kris Marshall on screen, remember that behind his success is Hannah’s unfailing love and quiet power. Because her life is an example of the power of having the courage to decide what’s most important, no matter who’s looking.