Marianne Jean-Baptiste is a British actress, director and singer-songwriter.
Before she was making history at the Oscars and BAFTAs, Marianne was studying at Barking & Dagenham College. From the very beginning, it was clear she was destined for greatness.
Marianne went on to train at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), but it all started here in East London. Her talent, drive and creativity were unmistakable and those early days helped shape the performer and powerhouse she would become.
She broke barriers as the first Black British actress to be nominated for an Academy Award, a BAFTA and a Golden Globe for her performance in Mike Leigh’s Secrets & Lies.
A bold, unforgettable presence on screen and stage, Marianne has since starred in hit shows like Without a Trace, Blindspot and Homecoming, bringing complexity and strength to every role.
Marianne didn’t just carve out a space for herself - she opened doors for others. A true trailblazer, she continues to inspire young creatives from Barking & Dagenham and beyond.
