Daniel Francis is a classically trained actor who has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry. He has appeared in several notable projects, including Bridgerton season 3, AppleTV series 'Liaison', and the Netflix thriller 'Stay Close'.
Francis is perhaps best known for his performances in Disney/ABC's hit series Once Upon A Time, where he played the role of "Doctor Facilier", and in the Academy Award-winning director Steve McQueen's film "Small Axe", where he portrayed Esmond Smith.
Growing up, Francis was passionate but shy, finding his voice and freedom of expression through his involvement with the Pyramid Young Initiative in Clapham, London. At the age of 17, he was introduced to his early mentor, theatre director Sacha Wares, and was subsequently cast in her production of Bintou at the Arcola Theatre.
Francis then went on to train at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA),and upon graduation, he joined the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC),where he worked alongside award-winning actor John Lithgow.
After completing his debut season at the RSC, Francis embarked on a critically acclaimed stage career, playing leading roles in several productions, including The Brothers Size at the Young Vic, Off The Endz at the Royal Court theatre, The Hounding of David Oluwale at the Hackney Empire, Othello at the Singapore Rep Theatre, and the Olivier Award-winning play the Mountaintop, where he portrayed Martin Luther King Jr.
In addition to his acting career, Francis is also an entrepreneur, having been a founding team member of the multi-billion dollar tech company Hedera Hashgraph.
