Stott's early work focused on theatre with a notable leading role in the dramatisation of Dominic Behan's play about the Northern Ireland troubles "The Folk Singer" (Belfast Lyric Theatre). Stott appeared in small roles in BBC series such as "Secret Army" (1977), "The Complete Dramatic Works of William Shakespeare" ("King Lear", 1982), and Dennis Potter's "The Singing Detective" (1986). He also featured in an advert for the British COI's "Drinking And Driving Wrecks Lives" campaign, playing a fireman. He eventually began to earn starring roles on television in the 1990s. He created the leading role in "The Prince's Play", a translation and adaptation by Tony Harrison of Victor Hugo's "Le Roi s'amuse", for the National Theatre, London, 1996.