Ariyon Bakare () (born 1 July 1971) is an English actor, writer and director. He is known for his roles in shows including Doctor Who, His Dark Materials, and Doctors.
In 1998, he became the first Black man to play a lead role in a BBC period drama, portraying Mehuru in the BAFTA-nominated miniseries A Respectable Trade. In 2025, he won the BAFTA TV Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Mr Loverman.
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Early life and education
Bakare was born on 1 July 1971 in London. He grew up in many places including the East London, Leytonstone, and Hackney with his Nigerian father who was an electrician. Growing up, he watched black and white movies with his dad which led to him having a passion for acting. When he was 15, Bakare was kicked out of his house after having conflicts with his father and spent a few years being homeless in East London.
