Modeling Career

Macken's modeling career quickly gained momentum. In 2003, he was selected as part of Abercrombie & Fitch’s campaign and went on to model for prominent brands such as GQ, Ralph Lauren, and participated in Braun's 2008 campaign. His exposure through these high-profile projects helped raise his public visibility across Ireland and beyond.

Acting Breakthroughs

While studying psychology, Macken pursued his passion for acting by joining the drama society at University College Dublin and later trained at the Attic Studio under the guidance of Rachel Rath and Graham Cantwell. His breakout film role came in 2005, when he appeared in Paul Mercier’s film Studs alongside Brendan Gleeson and Emmett J. Scanlan. He also starred in indie titles such as Rise of the Bricks and Triple Bill before relocating to Los Angeles to continue his acting studies with coach Vincent Chase.

Television Roles and Recognition

Macken gained attention on Irish television with his role as Gavin Cluxton, a troubled drug dealer, on RTÉ's flagship soap Fair City. He played the part for over four months, also participating in related live entertainment segments including a performance of "Hallelujah" on Fair City Sings.

Internationally, he became widely recognized for portraying Sir Gwaine in the BBC fantasy series Merlin. He later starred as TC Callahan in NBC’s medical drama The Night Shift, a role that further increased his prominence in the U.S. market.