Chanel Cresswell is an English actress who has garnered widespread acclaim for her captivating performances on screen. Born in the quaint town of Codnor in Derbyshire, Chanel's introduction to the world of acting began with a memorable role in her school's production of Bugsy Malone. This early experience kindled a passion within her that led her to join the Nottingham Television Workshop, where she caught the attention of renowned director Shane Meadows.
Chanel's breakthrough came at the tender age of fifteen when she was cast as Kelly Jenkins in the critically acclaimed film This Is England (2006). Her portrayal of Kelly was so impactful that she reprised the role in the subsequent miniseries This Is England '86 (2010),This Is England '88 (2011),and This Is England '90 (2015). Her exceptional performance in these series earned her a well-deserved BAFTA for Best Supporting Actress in 2016, solidifying her place in the hearts of viewers and the industry alike.
Beyond her iconic role as Kelly Jenkins, Chanel has showcased her versatility in various other projects. She brought laughter to many as Katie McVey in the Sky One sitcom Trollied, a role she played from 2011 to 2018. In 2019, she took on the dramatic role of Jess Meredith in ITV's The Bay, further demonstrating her range as an actress. More recently, Chanel portrayed Coleen Rooney in Channel 4's gripping courtroom drama Vardy v Rooney: A Courtroom Drama (2022),starring alongside Michael Sheen and Natalia Tena. Her latest venture includes playing Tammy in the Guy Ritchie Netflix series The Gentlemen (2024),where she shares the screen with Theo James and Daniel Ings.
Throughout her career, Chanel has also made notable appearances in popular shows like Casualty, Butterfly, Bale, and Wish 143, as well as the TV movie Dive. Her journey from a school play to the big screen is a testament to her talent, dedication, and perseverance, making her a beloved figure in British television and film.
