Gugu Mbatha-Raw is a British actress known for her work in film, stage, and television. She was born Gugulethu Sophia Mbatha in the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, England, on April 21, 1983. Her father, Patrick Mbatha, is a Black South African doctor, and her mother, Anne Raw, is a Caucasian English nurse. Her parents separated when she was a year old, and she was primarily raised by her mother in the town of Witney, Oxfordshire, while remaining close to her father

Career: Mbatha-Raw gained recognition for her portrayal of the titular character in the acclaimed period drama Belle (2013). She started her career on stage, receiving praise for her performances in Shakespearean roles such as Juliet and Ophelia. She also made her mark on British television with supporting roles in popular series like “Spooks” and “Doctor Who.” Additionally, she appeared on the Broadway stage as Ophelia in the Donmar Warehouse production of “Hamlet” (2009)

Recognition: In 2017, Mbatha-Raw was honored as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by Queen Elizabeth II for her contribution to the dramatic arts

Personal Life: Mbatha-Raw’s heritage reflects her diverse background, with her father being South African and her mother English. She was interested in drama from an early age and was involved in the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain. She moved to London in 2001 to attend the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art after winning a scholarship