| British actress of Ghanaian-Iranian descent Date of Birth: 20.03.1979 Country: Great Britain |
Freema Agyeman, a British actress of Ghanaian-Iranian descent, was born in London on March 20, 1979. Growing up in the Haggerston area of Hackney, she attended a Catholic girls' school and later studied performing arts and drama at Middlesex University, graduating in 2000.
Before landing the iconic role of Martha Jones in "Doctor Who," Agyeman had minor roles in television series such as "Casualty," "Mile High," and "The Bill." She also appeared in the revived soap opera "Crossroads" as Lola Wise.
In 2006, Agyeman auditioned three times for different roles in "Doctor Who." Her versatile acting impressed the casting directors, and she was ultimately cast as Martha Jones. Agyeman appeared alongside David Tennant as the Tenth Doctor for two seasons and guest-starred in several episodes of the spin-off "Torchwood."
Following her success in "Doctor Who," Agyeman voiced the documentary series "Bizarre E.R." and presented a BBC Proms segment dedicated to the show. In 2009, she began starring in the British adaptation of "Law & Order," playing Crown Prosecutor Alesha Phillips. Agyeman's dedication to her role included observing real trials and consulting with her sister, a lawyer.
Agyeman currently resides in London with her boyfriend. She is a supporter of Divine Chocolate, an organization that supports Ghanaian farmers. Throughout her career, she has received several awards, including "Face of the Year" from The Observer in 2007.