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Last updated on the 5 June 2025 by Maeve
Mini Biography
Born:10 July 1977, Forest Gate, London, England.
Chiwetel Ejiofor grew up in a creative and supportive household. His parents, both of Igbo descent, encouraged his interest in acting from a young age. Ejiofor’s passion for the craft led him to pursue formal training at the National Youth Theatre and London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).
Chiwetel Ejiofor’s breakthrough came in 1996 when he made his stage debut in the critically acclaimed play “Othello” at the Bloomsbury Theatre in London. His portrayal of the titular character garnered widespread praise and quickly established him as a rising star in the theatre scene. This success propelled Ejiofor into a successful career on both the stage and screen.
Ejiofor’s first film was the highly praised 2002 drama “Dirty Pretty Things.” In it, he played a Nigerian immigrant working as a hotel porter in London, a role that earned him multiple award nominations, including a British Independent Film Award for Best Actor.
Ejiofor’s career continued to soar with notable performances in films such as “Love Actually” (2003), “Inside Man” (2006), and “American Gangster” (2007). However, it was his portrayal of Solomon Northup, a free African-American man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery, in the 2013 film “12 Years a Slave” that truly catapulted him to international stardom. His performance was widely praised and he received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
Aside from his impressive filmography, Ejiofor has also made notable contributions to the theatre. In 2008, he returned to the stage to portray Othello at the Donmar Warehouse in London, once again receiving critical acclaim for his performance. He has also taken on challenging roles in Shakespearean productions such as “Macbeth” and “Hamlet.”
Chiwetel Ejiofor talent and dedication to his craft have made him one of the most respected and sought-after actors of his generation. Whether on stage or screen, Chiwetel Ejiofor’s performances are a testament to his immense talent and his contribution to the field of acting.
WINNER | Film: Leading Actor for 12 Years a Slave (2014)
Suggested viewing
Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy (2025)
Bftv 8.0 / IMDb 6.6
Now in her early forties, Bridget Jones finds herself facing the complexities of single motherhood. Embracing the digital world, she dives into online dating, experiencing both the thrill and awkwardness of modern romance. As she juggles work, friends and the challenges of raising a family, Bridget faces a new chapter filled with her signature brand of hilarious mishaps and heartfelt self-discovery.
Top cast: Renée Zellweger, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Leo Woodall, Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Nico Parker, Isla Fisher, Emma Thompson.
Prequel
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (2019)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.6
“The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind” is a true story adapted from the memoir of William Kamkwamba. Set in Malawi, it follows the determined journey of a young boy named William, who, faced with a devastating drought, builds a wind turbine to save his village from famine and bring hope to his community.
Top cast: Maxwell Simba, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Aïssa Maïga, Lily Banda, Lemogang Tsipa, Philbert Falakeza, Joseph Marcell, Noma Dumezweni.
Kinky Boots (2005)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.1
“Kinky Boots” is a delightful comedy-drama. When a struggling shoe factory faces closure, Charlie Price teams up with drag queen Lola to create high-heeled boots for men. As they face challenges and prejudices, they learn about acceptance, friendship and the power of embracing one’s true identity through the power of fabulous footwear.
Top cast: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Joel Edgerton, Sarah-Jane Potts, Nick Frost, Linda Bassett, Jemima Rooper, Robert Pugh, Ewan Hooper.
The Shadow Line (2011)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.9
“The Shadow Line” is a thrilling British crime drama miniseries. After the murder of a drug lord, a detective investigates the dark underworld of crime and corruption. As he delves deeper, he finds himself caught between two sides, trying to uncover the truth while struggling with his own morality and loyalty.
Top cast: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Christopher Eccleston, Rafe Spall, Lesley Sharp, Kierston Wareing, Antony Sher, Stephen Rea, Richard Lintern.
Dirty Pretty Things (2002)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.2
“Dirty Pretty Things” is a gripping drama directed by Stephen Frears. The story revolves around the lives of illegal immigrants in London, focusing on Okwe, a Nigerian doctor and Senay, a Turkish chambermaid. Their paths intertwine as they uncover a dark secret involving organ trafficking, leading to a fight for justice and redemption.
Top cast: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Audrey Tautou, Sergi López, Sophie Okonedo, Benedict Wong, Zlatko Buric, Kriss Dosanjh, Israel Oyelumade.
Children of Men (2006)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.9
“Children of Men” is a dystopian science fiction film set in a world where humanity faces infertility. Theo, a former activist, is tasked with protecting a pregnant woman who may hold the key to humanity’s survival. Amidst chaos and despair, they embark on a dangerous journey to find hope for the future.
Top cast: Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Clare-Hope Ashitey, Michael Caine, Pam Ferris, Charlie Hunnam, Danny Houston, Peter Mullans.
12 Years a Slave (2013)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.1
“12 Years a Slave” is a powerful and harrowing true story set in the pre-Civil War United States. It follows the journey of Solomon Northup, a free African-American man who is kidnapped and sold into slavery. The film explores the brutality and injustice of slavery while highlighting Solomon’s struggle for survival and eventual quest for freedom.
Top cast: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Lupita Nyong’o, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano, Sarah Paulson, Brad Pitt, Alfre Woodard.
