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.
After reconciling with his father, Bakare moved to New York City to study dance when he was 17 at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. He gave up dance however after talking to a professional he respected who was retiring at an early age. Bakare went back to London at 19 to study drama at DRAMA CENTRE in Camden.
Career
Film and television
Bakare had his first success in acting after landing the play Ion which also starred Jude Law.
His career in television expanded with his role as Mehuru in the BAFTA-nominated BBC A Respectable Trade. Bakare then landed a role in Doctors as Dr Ben Kwarme in 2001. Other notable shows he acted for include Thirteen (TV series), Good Omens, His Dark Materials, and Mr Loverman.
Stage
Bakare's acts include productions at the RSC, Young Vic, and the Royal Court Theatre. Among other theater credits include A Servant to Two Masters, Julius Caesar, Antony and Cleopatra, The Dream Of The Dog, The Mountaintop and God of Carnage.
Awards and nominations
In 2025, Bakare won the BAFTA TV Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Mr Loverman.
