David Harewood OBE

Actor, Author & RADA President, Homeland & Supergirl Star, Acclaimed Mental Health & Racism Speaker

David Harewood’s Biography:

David Harewood OBE is an acclaimed actor, presenter, author and keynote speaker, currently serving as President of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. Best known for standout roles in ‘Homeland’, ‘Supergirl’ and ‘Blood Diamond’, David has built a reputation that stretches far beyond the screen. As a speaker, he brings the same authority, presence and emotional depth that have defined his acting career, using his platform to explore racism, mental health and resilience with honesty and intelligence. One of his most groundbreaking achievements came in 1997, when he became the first Black actor to play Othello at the National Theatre, a milestone that cemented his place in British cultural history and remains one of the defining moments of his career.

Born in Birmingham to parents from the Windrush generation, David grew up in Small Heath and attended Washwood Heath Academy before joining the National Youth Theatre. He later earned a place at RADA, a formative step that helped shape his path into the profession. David began acting professionally in 1990 and steadily built his career through a wide range of television, film and theatre roles. His early experiences were not without challenge. At the age of 23, he suffered a psychotic episode that led to hospitalisation, a deeply traumatic period that would later become central to his public advocacy. Rather than hide that chapter of his life, David has chosen to speak about it openly, helping others better understand psychosis, stigma and recovery.

Across more than three decades in the industry, David has established himself as one of Britain’s most respected performers. He gained international recognition as David Estes in ‘Homeland’, later reached global audiences as J’onn J’onzz, Martian Manhunter, in ‘Supergirl’, and continued to broaden his influence through documentaries, books and public speaking. His memoir, ‘Maybe I Don’t Belong Here’, offered a powerful reflection on race, identity, breakdown and belonging, while his documentary ‘David Harewood: Psychosis and Me’ was widely praised for its candour and impact. His work has earned major recognition, including Mind’s Speaking Out Award, the Variety Outstanding Achievement Award at the Edinburgh TV Festival, and appointment as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2023 for services to drama and charity. He also made history as the first Black presenter of The Richard Dimbleby Lecture, further underlining his importance as both a cultural figure and public voice.

Why Hire David Harewood?

David is a compelling keynote speaker because he combines lived experience with national profile, professional excellence and natural storytelling ability. He speaks on mental health, racism, diversity, inclusion, resilience and wellbeing, delivering talks that are moving, thoughtful and relevant to modern organisations. These subjects matter because businesses and event audiences increasingly want more meaningful conversations around identity, representation and psychological safety. David brings credibility to each of these themes, not simply through opinion, but through a life and career shaped by overcoming adversity and challenging barriers. With his warmth, emotional honesty and commanding stage presence, David leaves audiences informed, inspired and more willing to engage in the conversations that matter most.

David Harewood’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define David Harewood’s remarkable acting career:

• 2025 – Announced to reprise Othello in the West End
• 2024 – Became President of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA)
• 2023 – Appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to drama and charity
• 2023 – Delivered The Richard Dimbleby Lecture as its first Black presenter
• 2020 – Won the Variety Outstanding Achievement Award at the Edinburgh TV Festival
• 2019 – Won Mind’s Speaking Out Award
• 2019 – His documentary David Harewood: Psychosis and Me received a BAFTA Television Award nomination for Single Documentary
• 2018 – Won Best Actor at the British Urban Film Festival for Free in Deed
• 2016 – Won Best Actor at the Nashville Film Festival for Free in Deed
• 2012 – Appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to drama
• 1997 – Became the first Black actor to play Othello at the National Theatre