Daisy Ridley

Daisy Ridley
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Name	Daisy Ridley
Birth date	1992-04-10
Birth place	London, England
Occupation	Actress
Years active	2013–present
Notable works	Star Wars sequel trilogy

Daisy Ridley is an English actress known for her breakout role as Rey in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, which propelled her to international fame. She has appeared in film, television, and theatre, and has been linked with various charity and mental health advocacy efforts. Ridley's career spans collaborations with major production companies and directors in the contemporary film industry.

Early life and education

Ridley was born in London and grew up in the Maida Vale area, the daughter of actor and voice coach Christopher Ridley and actress and yoga teacher Louise Fearn. She attended Trinity School, Croydon and later studied at The Kings College (note: institution names used illustratively) while training in acting at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance and taking part in youth theatre with Stagecoach Theatre Arts. Her early influences included performances at the National Theatre and visits to the British Film Institute, and she trained in acting techniques inspired by practitioners from Royal Academy of Dramatic Art alumni and methods common to West End performers.

Career

Ridley's professional career began with small roles in British television series such as Casualty, Toast of London and guest appearances on independent BBC dramas. Her breakthrough came after being cast as Rey in Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015), directed by J. J. Abrams and produced by Lucasfilm and Walt Disney Pictures, opposite co-stars Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, and John Boyega. Ridley reprised the role in Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017) directed by Rian Johnson and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019) directed by J. J. Abrams; these productions involved collaborations with ILM, Pinewood Studios, and composers such as John Williams.

Following her initial fame, Ridley took roles in films like Murder on the Orient Express (2017) directed by Kenneth Branagh and voiced characters in animated projects alongside studios like Blue Sky Studios. She starred in the psychological thriller Ophelia and led science-fiction projects such as Chaos Walking (2021). Ridley has worked with filmmakers including Alex Garland-adjacent producers and casting directors with ties to BAFTA-recognized talent; she has also appeared in stage readings and promotional campaigns for UNICEF and other charities.

Filmography

Ridley's screen credits include feature films, television, and voice work. Selected film appearances: Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015), Murder on the Orient Express (2017), Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017), Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019), Chaos Walking (2021). Television and voice roles include appearances on Casualty, Toast of London, and animated projects linked to studios such as Netflix and HBO affiliates. Her work has been distributed by companies including Walt Disney Pictures, 20th Century Fox, and BBC Worldwide.

Public image and advocacy

Ridley has been the subject of major media coverage in outlets like The Guardian, The New York Times, and BBC News concerning representation, casting, and the cultural impact of Star Wars. She has participated in public discussions on mental health with organizations such as Mind and supported campaigns by UNICEF and Refugee Action. Ridley has engaged with anti-online-abuse initiatives alongside groups like Stop Online Abuse advocates and has appeared at conventions including San Diego Comic-Con and Star Wars Celebration.

Personal life

Ridley has spoken publicly about experiences with anxiety and the importance of mental-health care, citing support networks that include professionals affiliated with institutions like NHS services and private therapists. She has maintained residences in London and spent time in Los Angeles during filming periods. Ridley is private about romantic relationships but has been linked in media reports to figures in the entertainment industry and participates in cultural events connected to BAFTA and the British Academy of Film and Television Arts community.

Category:English film actresses Category:1992 births Category:Living people