Growing up in Oxford, Oyelowo discovered his passion for acting during his time at City and Islington College. Encouraged by one of his teachers, he pursued a career in acting and enrolled in an art foundation course at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) for a year. He completed his three-year training in 1998 and also participated in the National Youth Theatre.
Career:
Oyelowo’s acting journey began in 1999 when he was offered a season with the Royal Shakespeare Company. He showcased his talent in various productions, including Ben Jonson’s “Volpone” and Shakespeare’s “Antony and Cleopatra,” where he performed alongside esteemed actors such as Guy Henry and Alan Bates.
However, his breakthrough stage performance came in 2001 when he portrayed King Henry VI in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s productions of Shakespeare’s trilogy of plays about the king. This notable achievement made him the first black actor to play an English king in a major Shakespeare production.
Following his success in the theater, Oyelowo ventured into television and film. He gained recognition for his role as MI5 officer Danny Hunter in the British TV drama series “Spooks” (MI-5 in North America) from 2002 to 2004. He went on to appear in numerous films, including “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” (2011), “Middle of Nowhere” (2012), “Lincoln” (2012), and “The Butler” (2013), where he portrayed Louis Gaines. Oyelowo’s performances have consistently received critical acclaim, and he has continued to showcase his versatility in various roles.
Personal Life:
David Oyelowo is married to actress Jessica Oyelowo, and they have four children together. The family is based in Los Angeles. Oyelowo’s deep-rooted faith as a devout Christian has played a significant role in his life and career. He believes that it was God’s calling for him to portray the iconic civil rights leader, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., in the film “Selma.”
Net Worth:
With his successful acting career and numerous accomplishments, David Oyelowo has amassed an estimated net worth of $6 million. His talent, dedication, and remarkable performances have undoubtedly contributed to his financial success.
Conclusion:
David Oyelowo has emerged as a prominent Nigerian-British actor in the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with his exceptional talent. From his early days in theater to his notable roles in films, Oyelowo has proven his versatility and ability to bring characters to life on screen. As he continues to take on challenging roles, we can look forward to witnessing his enduring impact on the world of cinema. Follow David Oyelowo on Instagram (@davidoyelowo) and Twitter (@David) to stay updated on his upcoming projects and inspiring journey.
