David Oyetokunbo Oyelowo OBE (born 1 April 1976) is a critically acclaimed British-American actor, director, and producer. He has received numerous accolades including a Critics' Choice Award, two NAACP Image Awards, and multiple nominations for Golden Globe Awards, Primetime Emmy Awards, Screen Actors Guild Award, and a BAFTA Award. Oyelowo was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2016 for his exceptional contributions to drama. He is best known for his performance as Martin Luther King Jr. in the film 'Selma' (2014) and Peter Snowdin in the HBO film 'Nightingale' (2014). His remarkable performances in 'The Butler' (2013), 'A United Kingdom' (2016), and 'Queen of Katwe' (2016) have also garnered significant appreciation.

Born in Oxford, England, to Nigerian parents, Oyelowo has an interesting cross-cultural background. His family moved to Lagos, Nigeria, when he was six and returned to London when he was 14. Enthralled by the performances of Sidney Poitier and Denzel Washington, Oyelowo nurtured dreams of acting since childhood. Subsequently, he attended the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), launching his acclaimed acting career in 1998. On television, he has portrayed MI5 officer Danny Hunter in 'Spooks' (2002–2004) and Javert in the BBC miniseries 'Les Misérables' (2018). Oyelowo's unique contribution extends to voice roles in Star Wars Rebels and the Apple+ drama series Silo. He is set to star in and co-produce the 2023 Paramount+ western series Lawmen: Bass Reeves.