David Harewood accepts OBE

Congratulations to David Harewood who was recognised in the 2023 New Year Honours list for his service to drama and charity.

Actor, director, author and activist, David graduated from RADA in 1987. During the course of his career, he has become a UNICEF UK Ambassador, a voice against racism, an advocate for mental health and a champion of representation in the arts, having made history in 1997 playing the National Theatre’s first-ever Black Othello. David was previously awarded an MBE in 2012 for his services to drama.

On accepting his OBE, David reflected on the nature of the award on social media with his statement including:

“I stop for a moment and think of all the others whose contributions have gone unnoticed and unpaid and accept this award on their behalf, and continue to speak truth to power whenever and wherever I see the need.”

David is currently performing on the West End in the critically acclaimed, multiple award-winning play Best of Enemies. In television and film, some of his most recognised roles include playing David Estes in Emmy Award winning drama HOMELAND and Captain Poison in Academy Award nominated Blood Diamond.

Image: David Harewood (courtesy of Flickr)