Who is Michaela Coel?

Michaela Coel is a British actress, writer, and director best known for her work on stage and screen. Born in East London in 1987, Coel began her career in acting after graduating from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in 2012.

Coel rose to prominence after she wrote and starred in "Chewing Gum," a comedy series that aired on Channel 4 in the UK from 2015 to 2017. The show was based on Coel's one-woman play, "Chewing Gum Dreams," which she wrote while still a drama student. "Chewing Gum" follows the story of a young woman, Tracey, who seeks growth and independence while navigating her religious upbringing. Coel's nuanced portrayal of Tracey and the show's representation of Black British life gained critical acclaim and won several awards, including a BAFTA for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy.

In addition to her work on "Chewing Gum," Coel has also appeared in several other TV shows and films, including Black Mirror and Been So Long. In 2020, she starred in HBO's "I May Destroy You," a series she also created, wrote, co-directed, and executive-produced. The show is a provocative exploration of consent, sexuality, trauma, and addiction following the aftermath of a sexual assault. Coel's dynamic range as an actress and her writing skill have once again earned her critical acclaim, with many calling "I May Destroy You" a masterpiece.

Coel's talent extends beyond acting and writing, and she has also worked as a playwright. Her play "Chewing Gum Dreams" was performed at the National Theatre in 2014 and has since been performed in several countries.

While Coel has made a name for herself as a writer and actress, she has also worked on several commercial projects. In 2019, she starred in a series of ads for the clothing brand SSENSE. Her work as a commercial actress showcases her versatility and ability to adapt to different styles of acting.

Coel's remarkable talent and creative determination have earned her numerous accolades, including two BAFTA awards, a Television Critics Association award, and an Emmy nomination. She is an inspiration to many in the entertainment industry, and her boundary-pushing work is sure to captivate audiences for years to come.