UKWELI "QUAILS" ROACH

CO-FOUNDER | ARTISTIC DIRECTOR | MOVEMENT ARCHITECT

Ukweli plays the leading titular role in six-part drama WOLF, from Elaine Cameron at Hartswood Films, for the BBC. The series is based on Mo Hayder’s critically acclaimed Jack Caffrey novels and launches on BBC One in July as their new flagship drama. The Evening Standard's 4* the review says Ukweli "brings grit, muscle and a buried charisma to the role of Caffrey". 

He recently wrapped filming the role of Magic Mike in Victoria Pile’s new ITVX comedy PIGLETS, based on new recruits at a fictional police training college. 

Prior to this, he filmed a great role in BIG MOOD, a new Channel 4 dark comedy starring Nicola Coughlan and Lydia West. The six-part series explores the intricacies of female friendship when confronted with the complexities of serious mental illness and has been receiving incredible reviews.

Ukweli can also be seen in THE MIDWICH CUCKOOS,David Farr’s adaptation of John Wyndham’s classic novel for Sky, alongside a fantastic cast including Keeley Hawes, and he starred in both series of ANNIKA, opposite Nicola Walker, for Alibi and BBC One.

Most recently on stage, he played the lead role in the astonishing JESUS HOPPED THE A TRAIN by Stephen Adly Guirgis for the Young Vic, to brilliant reviews. Prior to this he starred in NIGHTFALL at the Bridge Theatre, directed by Laurie Samson. Other stage work includes 5,6,7,8 at The Royal Court and playing Tybalt in the Globe’s acclaimed production of ROMEO & JULIET for Dominic Dromgoole.

Ukweli is perhaps best known for his recurring role of Dr Robert Borden in three seasons of NBC’s hit show BLINDSPOT. He also starred in the third series of HUMANS (Kudos Television for Channel 4/AMC) as the new leading regular Anatole, which swiftly followed starring in BBC One pre-apocalyptic crime drama by Luther creator Neil Cross, HARD SUN. Ukweli’s film work includes ONE DAY and STREET DANCE.

On top of this, Ukweli has simultaneously continued pushing boundaries as the Artistic Director of thriving hip hop dance troupe BIRDGANG, touring the world and starring in music videos for the likes of Kylie Minogue and Mariah Carey. He is a graduate of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.