The career of Dev Patel began in 2006 when he auditioned for the E4 teen drama Skins, an opportunity he pursued despite an impending science exam. Since his debut as Anwar Kharral, he has transitioned from television roles to international cinema, eventually earning recognition as one of the 100 most influential people according to Time in 2024.
Early Development and Martial Arts
Born in 1990 in the London Borough of Harrow, Patel was raised in the Hindu faith. His formal education included attendance at Longfield Primary School and Whitmore High School. Beyond his academic interests, he was a dedicated practitioner of taekwondo. He began training at the Rayners Lane Academy in 2000, eventually securing a 1st dan black belt by March 2006. In 2004, he competed at the AIMAA World Championships in Dublin, where he successfully earned a bronze medal in the junior division.
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Patel reached international attention through his role as Jamal Malik in Danny Boyle's 2008 film Slumdog Millionaire. The production required extensive preparation, including observations of the Dharavi slums and temporary work in a hotel and call centre. Following this breakthrough, he appeared in diverse projects, ranging from the comedy-drama The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel to the science fiction thriller Chappie and the HBO series The Newsroom. In 2010, he portrayed Zuko in the feature film The Last Airbender.
Critical Recognition and Direction
For his role as Saroo Brierley in the 2016 drama Lion, Patel received a BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role and an AACTA Award, alongside an Academy Award nomination. His subsequent work included independent films such as The Personal History of David Copperfield and The Green Knight. In 2024, Patel expanded his professional scope into filmmaking by directing his first action feature, Monkey Man.
Fast facts
- Born: 1990, Harrow, United Kingdom
- Education: Whitmore High School
- Early Television Role: Anwar Kharral in Skins (2007)
- Taekwondo Achievement: 1st dan black belt (2006)
- BAFTA Win: Best Actor in a Supporting Role (2017)
- Directorial Debut: Monkey Man (2024)
- Religion: Hinduism
- Citizenship: United Kingdom
Questions readers ask
What was Dev Patel's first professional acting role?
He played Anwar Kharral in the E4 teen drama series Skins, starting in 2007.
Has Dev Patel directed any films?
Yes, he made his directorial debut with the 2024 action film Monkey Man.
Achievements
- BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role — 2017
- Worked as actor, taekwondo athlete and film actor
