Dev Patel was born in London's Harrow district, a culturally rich and diverse area, to Anita, a dedicated caregiver, and Raj, a skilled professional in the field of information technology, both of whom hail from Nairobi, Kenya, and share a common Gujarati-Indian heritage. This unique blend of cultures would later shape Patel's artistic endeavors and personal identity.
Patel's early start in the entertainment industry came with a recurring role as Anwar on the popular and critically acclaimed television series Skins, which he starred in for two seasons, showcasing his acting chops and gaining recognition within the industry.
However, it was his breakout role as Jamal in Danny Boyle's Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire in 2008 that truly catapulted Patel to stardom. His remarkable performance earned him a BAFTA nomination for Best Actor, a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.
Following his success in Slumdog Millionaire, Patel went on to appear in a variety of films, including The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Chappie, Hotel Mumbai, and The Green Knight. His portrayal of real-life Australian businessman Saroo Brierley in the biographical drama Lion, opposite Nicole Kidman, garnered widespread critical acclaim and earned him a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
In addition to his acting endeavors, Patel has also ventured into directing, making his debut with the critically acclaimed Monkey Man in 2024, in which he also starred.
