Sharon D Clarke

Last updated on the 8 April 2025 by Maeve

Mini Biography

Born: May 28, 1966, Enfield, London.

Sharon D Clarke, a British actress and singer, was raised in a working-class family of Jamaican descent. Her parents instilled in her a strong sense of cultural pride and resilience. Her mother, a seamstress, was instrumental in nurturing Sharon’s love for music, serving as her first vocal coach. This early encouragement laid the foundation for her future in the performing arts.

While specific details about her formal education are not widely documented, Clarke’s artistic journey began in earnest with her involvement in theatre, eventually becoming a prominent figure in London’s West End. Her powerful voice and commanding presence earned her roles in musicals such as “We Will Rock You” and “Ghost the Musical,” where she originated the roles of Killer Queen and Oda Mae Brown, respectively.

Sharon D Clarke’s television career is equally impressive. She gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Lola Griffin in the BBC medical drama “Holby City,” a role she played from 2005 to 2008, with a brief return in 2019. Another notable role was Grace O’Brien in the eleventh series of “Doctor Who,” where her performance resonated deeply with fans. Beyond these, she has appeared in various other TV shows, including “Waking the Dead,” “EastEnders,” and “Informer.”

In 2024 Sharon D Clarke  appeared in “Ellis”, a crime drama series that premiered on Channel 5 on October 31, 2024. Thus making history as the first Black female lead in a British TV detective series.

In her personal life, Sharon D Clarke has been married to Susie McKenna, a theatre director and actor, since 2008. The couple share a deep passion for the arts and have collaborated on several projects. Clarke’s achievements have been recognised; she is a three-time Olivier Award winner and was honoured with an MBE for her contributions to drama. Her journey reflects a blend of talent, dedication and cultural pride, making her a revered figure in the entertainment industry.

Suggested viewing

Ellis (2024)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.6

Set in the high-stakes world of murder investigations, this gripping crime drama follows a seasoned detective as she traverses a challenging and often biased professional landscape. Tasked with solving complex cases across different locations, the series blends intense storytelling with themes of justice, resilience and institutional dynamics, delivering a fresh perspective on the genre.

Top cast: Sharon D Clarke, Andrew Gower, Allison Harding, Josh Bolt, Wayne Foskett, Sam Marks, Tom McKay, Amanda Drew.

Full filmography @ Wikipedia