Rakhee Thakrar was born on February 29th, 1984

Written by: Fatima Ahmed

Rakhee Thakrar: The British Actress Making Waves in Television and Beyond

Rakhee Thakrar is a household name in British television, known for her captivating performances in popular shows such as EastEnders and Sex Education. With her versatility and range, she has become a sought-after actress in the industry.

Early Life and Education

Thakrar was born around 1984 in Leicester, England, to Indian parents who worked in factories. Growing up in the St Matthews area, she attended Taylor Primary School and Soar Valley College. Her early interest in drama led her to take the subject as a GCSE, and she even acted in a play at the Phoenix Theatre.

Career Highlights

Thakrar's professional journey began with her role as Roopa Chauhan in the BBC Asian Network radio drama Silver Street, which she played from 2004 to 2010. She made her television debut in 2006 with the BBC drama Banglatown Banquet, followed by appearances in shows like Doctors, Holby City, and Peep Show.

Her breakthrough role came when she was cast as Shabnam Masood in the popular BBC One soap opera EastEnders in 2013. Her portrayal of the character earned her widespread acclaim, particularly for her heart-wrenching performance in a storyline involving stillbirth. This led to her becoming an ambassador for the stillbirth charity, Sands.

In recent years, Thakrar has played the role of Emily Sands in the Netflix comedy-drama Sex Education, which has gained her international recognition. She has also voiced the character of Bliss in Big Finish's Doctor Who: The Time War audio dramas.

Awards and Honors

Thakrar's outstanding performance in EastEnders earned her a nomination for Best Newcomer at the 2014 British Soap Awards. Her work in Sex Education has also been praised by critics and audiences alike.

Personal Milestones and Philanthropy

As an ambassador for Sands, Thakrar has been involved in raising awareness about stillbirth and supporting families affected by it. Her personal experiences and philanthropic work have made a significant impact on the charity and its cause.

Influence on Modern Society

Thakrar's portrayal of diverse characters has contributed to representation in British television, paving the way for more inclusive storytelling. Her commitment to social causes has inspired a new generation of actors and audiences to get involved in philanthropy.

Rakhee Thakrar's remarkable journey is a testament to her talent, dedication, and passion for her craft. As she continues to captivate audiences with her performances, she remains an inspiration to many in the entertainment industry and beyond.