Kelly Reilly has become a household name thanks to her fiery performance as Beth Dutton on Yellowstone. But here’s the thing—her career didn’t start in Montana, and it certainly doesn’t end there. Reilly has built a diverse portfolio filled with gripping dramas, thrilling mysteries, and even classic period pieces.

If you only know her as the sharp-tongued, whiskey-sipping Beth, you’re missing out on a treasure trove of performances that show just how versatile and captivating she really is. So, let’s break down the 10 best Kelly Reilly roles that prove she’s one of the most talented actresses working today.

1. Beth Dutton in Yellowstone (2018–Present)

We have to start here, right? Beth Dutton is a force of nature. She’s ruthless, sarcastic, and wildly unpredictable—but she’s also deeply vulnerable beneath the surface.

Kelly Reilly brings Beth to life with a rawness that makes her impossible to ignore. She’s not just playing a character; she’s shaping a modern TV icon. If Yellowstone is the first time you’ve seen Reilly, you’re already witnessing her at the peak of her powers.

2. Mary Watson in Sherlock Holmes (2009, 2011)

Reilly swapped cowboy boots for Victorian gowns when she starred as Mary Watson, the intelligent and caring wife of Dr. John Watson (Jude Law).

While Robert Downey Jr. and Law carried the action, Reilly gave Mary depth and independence, making her more than just the “doctor’s wife.” She stood toe-to-toe with Holmes’ eccentric world and grounded it with elegance.

3. Wendy in Eden Lake (2008)

Before Yellowstone made her a household name, Reilly stunned critics in the British horror-thriller Eden Lake. Playing Wendy, she delivered a gut-wrenching performance in one of the most disturbing survival stories of the 2000s.

Her raw portrayal of terror and resilience proved she wasn’t afraid of tough, gritty roles. Even today, Eden Lake is remembered largely because of her powerhouse acting.

4. Jordan Semyon in True Detective (Season 2, 2015)

True Detective is known for complex, layered characters, and Reilly fit right in. As Jordan Semyon, the wife of Vince Vaughn’s troubled businessman, she exuded quiet strength and loyalty while navigating a world of crime and corruption.

It wasn’t the most beloved season of the anthology series, but Reilly’s nuanced performance was one of the clear highlights.

5. Mary Morstan in A Sherlock Holmes Game of Shadows (2011)

Yes, she reprised her role from the first Sherlock Holmes film—and this time, she had even more to do. Mary Morstan got pulled deeper into Holmes’ dangerous world, and Reilly elevated the stakes with warmth, courage, and wit.

Her chemistry with Jude Law made the Watson marriage feel real, giving the action-heavy film an emotional anchor.

6. Caroline Bingley in Pride & Prejudice (2005)

Reilly’s turn as Caroline Bingley was pitch-perfect in Joe Wright’s acclaimed adaptation of Pride & Prejudice. She captured Caroline’s elegance, jealousy, and manipulative charm, adding delicious tension to Elizabeth Bennet’s love story.

It’s one of those performances where you almost love to hate her—and that’s exactly why it works.

7. Nicole in Flight (2012)

Opposite Denzel Washington, Reilly played Nicole, a recovering addict who develops a fragile bond with Washington’s troubled pilot.

Her performance was heartbreakingly human, portraying the messy, complicated path of recovery with authenticity. Critics praised her work, calling it one of her most emotionally charged roles.

8. Anna Travis in Above Suspicion (2009–2012)

For British TV fans, Kelly Reilly will forever be remembered as Detective Anna Travis in Above Suspicion. Across four seasons, she played a rookie detective who grows into a capable investigator, balancing vulnerability with determination.

The role gave Reilly the chance to lead a series, and she carried it with commanding presence. It’s also a hidden gem worth checking out if you’re only familiar with her Hollywood work.

9. Wendy in Mrs. Henderson Presents (2005)

This charming dramedy set in WWII London gave Reilly the chance to show her lighter side. Starring alongside Judi Dench and Bob Hoskins, she shined in a story about love, art, and resilience in the face of war.

Her performance earned praise for its charm and natural screen presence—proving she could handle both gritty dramas and whimsical period pieces.

10. Anna in Black Box (2014)

In this short-lived but fascinating ABC drama, Reilly played Dr. Catherine Black, a brilliant neuroscientist hiding her struggle with bipolar disorder.

The show itself didn’t last long, but Reilly’s performance stood out. She brought compassion and intensity to a challenging role, making the character’s internal battle feel deeply real.

Kelly Reilly’s Range as an Actress

What ties all these roles together? Range. From period dramas to psychological thrillers to Western epics, Kelly Reilly has done it all. She never shies away from complex, layered characters—and that’s what makes her unforgettable.

Why Yellowstone Made Her a Household Name

Of course, Yellowstone is the role that skyrocketed her into global fame. Beth Dutton became a pop-culture phenomenon because of Reilly’s fearless performance. She took a character who could have been one-dimensional and turned her into one of TV’s most fascinating figures.

What’s Next for Kelly Reilly?

With Yellowstone ending soon, fans are already wondering: what’s next? Given her track record, Reilly will likely take on roles that challenge her and show new sides of her talent. Whether it’s Hollywood blockbusters, indie films, or even another TV series, one thing’s for sure—she’ll own the screen.

Conclusion

Kelly Reilly’s career proves she’s not a one-role wonder. From Pride & Prejudice to Sherlock Holmes to Yellowstone, she’s built a body of work that’s as versatile as it is impressive.

If you love her as Beth Dutton, do yourself a favor: explore her other roles. You’ll find a fearless actress who thrives in every genre she touches.

FAQs

1. What role made Kelly Reilly famous?
While she gained recognition in British TV, Yellowstone made her internationally famous.

2. Did Kelly Reilly really play Mary Watson in Sherlock Holmes?
Yes, she starred as Mary Watson in both Guy Ritchie’s Sherlock Holmes films.

3. Is Kelly Reilly in any horror films?
Yes, her performance in Eden Lake (2008) is considered one of her most intense and disturbing roles.

4. Did Kelly Reilly win awards for her work?
She’s been nominated for several awards, including a César Award, and has received critical acclaim throughout her career.

5. What’s next for Kelly Reilly after Yellowstone?
While no official announcements have been made, fans expect her to continue with challenging and dynamic roles in both film and television.