Ameet Chana

Biography

Ameet Chana (born September 12, 1975, in Epsom, Surrey, England) is a British-Indian actor, director, and radio presenter known for his versatile contributions to film, television, theatre, and radio.

Early Life and Education

Raised in a Punjabi family, Chana developed an interest in acting at a young age, inspired by the television series Grange Hill. He began attending Sunday acting workshops at 13 and later studied Performing Arts at Elm Park College in Stanmore. He further honed his skills in filmmaking and directing at the New York Film Academy.

Acting Career

Chana's acting career commenced with his debut in the film Wild West (1992). He gained widespread recognition for his role as Tony in the critically acclaimed film Bend It Like Beckham (2002). From 2003 to 2005, he portrayed Adi Ferreira in the popular BBC soap opera EastEnders.

His filmography includes roles in Run, Fat Boy, Run (2007), Jhoom Barabar Jhoom (2007), Cash and Curry (2007), Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012), Unhallowed Ground (2015), Ghost (2019), and Little English (2022).

Theatre and Direction

Beyond screen acting, Chana has been active in theatre, performing in productions like Wicked Year, Balti Kings, and Papa Was A Bus Conductor. Since 2018, he has served as the Associate Director at Rifco Theatre Company, focusing on creating platforms for British South Asian artists and developing authentic narratives.

Radio and Media

In May 2006, Chana began presenting the Breakdown Show, a Bhangra music program on BBC Asian Network. He has also hosted the weekend breakfast show on Sunrise Radio, further showcasing his versatility in the entertainment industry.

Personal Life

Ameet Chana is married to Shikha Varma, a barrister and actress associated with 5 King's Bench Walk Chambers.