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Last updated on the 19 April 2024 by Maeve
Mini Biography
Born: 23 September 1985, Denmark Hill, London, England.Â
Cush Jumbo is an actress and writer who has carved a unique path in the entertainment industry. The second of six children born to a British mother and a Nigerian father, Jumbo’s name reflects her parents’ diverse heritage. Her unusual moniker stemmed from their shared interest in history and biblical names, combining “Cush,” referencing the ancient King of Egypt, with her father’s name, Jumbo.
Cush Jumbo’s artistic journey began early, at the age of three, she started attending dance classes, displaying a natural talent for movement. Her education weaved between academics and artistic pursuits. Jumbo developed her acting skills at the BRIT School in Croydon, a prestigious institution nurturing young talent.
Following her graduation from the BRIT School, Jumbo continued her education at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. While still a student, she began landing roles in television shows such as the BBC’s police drama “Murphy’s Law” and the science fiction series “Doctor Who” spin-off, “Torchwood.” These initial forays onto the screen gave Jumbo valuable experience and exposure.
Cush Jumbo’s breakout role came in 2015 when she landed the part of Lucca Quinn in the American legal drama series “The Good Wife.” Her portrayal of the ambitious and sharp young attorney garnered critical acclaim and propelled her into the international spotlight. Jumbo’s character became a fan favorite, leading to her continuing the role in the spin-off series “The Good Fight” (2017-2021).
However, Jumbo’s talents extend far beyond television. A dedicated theatre performer, she has tackled challenging roles on the London stage. In 2012, she made a bold statement by playing Mark Antony in an all-female production of Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar,” earning an Olivier Award nomination for her powerful performance.
Jumbo’s passion for storytelling extends beyond acting. She penned and starred in the one-woman show “Josephine and I,” a captivating exploration of the life of iconic entertainer Josephine Baker. This production earned her an Evening Standard Theatre Award, solidifying her reputation as a multi-faceted artist.Â
Cush Jumbo’s career continues to flourish. She recently starred as June Lenker in the Apple TV+ series “Criminal Record” (2024).
She married Sean Griffin in 2014 and together they have a son, Maximilian. In 2019, Jumbo was awarded the prestigious Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her services to drama.
Suggested viewing
Criminal Record (2024)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.1
A seasoned detective, nearing retirement and clinging to past glory, clashes with a rising star on the force when an anonymous tip reignites a decades-old murder case. Their pursuit of the truth exposes cracks in the justice system and forces them to confront their own biases.
Top cast: Cush Jumbo, Peter Capaldi, Aysha Kala, Dionne Brown, Shaun Dooley, Tom Moutchi, Charlie Creed-Miles, Stephen Campbell Moore, Jordan A. Nash, Cathy Tyson, Zoë Wanamaker, Ian Bonar, Georgina Rich.
Stay Close (2021)
Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 6.9
Seemingly ordinary lives in a suburban town unravel as long-buried secrets come to light. A photojournalist haunted by a past mistake, a soccer mum with a hidden identity and a detective obsessed with an unsolved case find their paths intertwining in a web of deceit and dark consequences.
Top cast: Cush Jumbo, James Nesbitt, Richard Armitage, Sarah Parish, Jo Joyner, Eddie Izzard, Daniel Francis, Bethany Antona, Poppy Gilbert.
Full filmography (@Wikipedia)
 Cush Jumbo Gallery
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_sohSQWHvg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nonC9TyX9hM