Ben Wilby, famously known as Bob from Nativity, captured the hearts of audiences in the 2009 British comedy film Nativity!. Since then, fans have eagerly wondered about his life and career.
Bob’s charm, humor, and unforgettable performance made him a household name in the UK. But where is Bob from Nativity now? Is he still acting, and what has he been up to in recent years?
In this article, we examine the current status, career, and personal life of Ben Wilby, providing a comprehensive update for fans.

Where is Bob from Nativity Now?
Ben Wilby is still actively pursuing an acting career, although he has slowed down in recent years. After making his breakthrough as Bob from Nativity in 2009, he appeared in the subsequent films Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger! (2012) and Nativity 3: Dude Where’s My Donkey (2014).
His career extended beyond the Nativity franchise, with roles in TV series such as Father Brown (2013), The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret (2010–2012), and Cartoonito Tales (2011).
Fans were excited to see Bob from Nativity in the TV series Cuckoo in 2019, marking his most recent television appearance. Outside acting, Ben has participated in music video projects, including Amanda Holden’s Heart Radio Christmas auditions.
Ben Wilby Profile Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ben Wilby |
| Gender | Male |
| Date of Birth | 29 January 2002 |
| Age | 24 (as of 2026) |
| Zodiac Sign | Aquarius |
| Place of Birth | Cannock, Staffordshire, England |
| Current Residence | Cannock, Staffordshire, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Hair Colour | Brown |
| Eye Colour | Brown |
| Parents | Nigel and Jill Wilby |
| Siblings | Three |
| Education | Emil Dale Academy, Sylvia Young Theatre School |
| Profession | Actor, dancer |
Is Bob from Nativity Disabled
The character Bob from Nativity! is not disabled. Similarly, Ben Wilby is not considered disabled today. However, his early life included a significant medical challenge.
Craniosynostosis, a condition in which the bones in a baby’s skull fuse too early, required surgery to relieve pressure on his brain. His parents were told that survival was uncertain, and even if he lived, he might never walk or speak.
Ben’s recovery was remarkable. He enrolled in dance training, developed exceptional balance and strength, and eventually became a European champion. His story is a testament to determination and perseverance, inspiring fans worldwide.
Ben Wilby’s Achievements
- Won European Freestyle Dance Championship.
- Active on TikTok with over 80K followers sharing memories from his acting career.
- Maintains an Instagram account with over 25K followers.
- Overcame a serious childhood condition, Craniosynostosis, through surgery and training.
Ben Wilby’s journey demonstrates resilience. Diagnosed with Craniosynostosis at age two, doctors initially warned he might never talk or walk. After life-saving surgery at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, he trained in dance to strengthen his legs and improve balance. Today, Bob from Nativity thrives both in acting and dancing.
Key Takeaways
- Ben Wilby shot to fame as Bob in Nativity!, acting alongside stars like Pam Ferris and Martin Freeman.
- Bob from Nativity is still pursuing acting but takes on fewer roles than during his early career peak.
- His last TV appearance was in 2019 in the series Cuckoo.
- Ben trained at Emil Dale Academy, an institution known for producing professional actors.
- He overcame a congenital disability and became a European Freestyle Dance Champion.
Wrapping Up
Where is Bob from Nativity now? Ben Wilby continues to pursue acting while balancing dance and social media activities.
Since his 2009 breakthrough, he has appeared in multiple films and TV shows, including the Nativity sequels, Father Brown, and Cuckoo. While he may take on fewer roles than before, his early fame, achievements in dance, and inspiring story make him a prominent figure to watch.
Fans can also connect with him online through TikTok and Instagram to follow his latest projects and memories from the Nativity days. Bob from Nativity remains a symbol of talent, resilience, and the enduring charm of a child actor who conquered challenges to follow his dreams.












