John Boyega

**John Adedayo Bamidele Adegboyega**, known professionally as **John Boyega**, is an esteemed British actor and producer who first drew widespread attention for his role as a teenage gang leader in the British comedy horror film _Attack the Block_ in 2011. He achieved international recognition for his compelling portrayal of Finn in the _Star Wars sequel trilogy films The Force Awakens_ (2015), _The Last Jedi_ (2017), and _The Rise of Skywalker_ (2019). His performance secured him the **BAFTA Rising Star Award** in 2016 and the **Trophée Chopard** at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. More recently, in 2020, Boyega won a **Golden Globe Award** for his portrayal of Leroy Logan in _Red, White and Blue_, a part of Steve McQueen's anthology series _Small Axe_. Born and raised in London by his Yoruba parents, Boyega's passion for acting bloomed at an early age. He landed his first acting role in a primary school play at a young age. His undeniable talent caught the attention of Teresa Early, the artistic director of Theatre Peckham, which led to his acting training from age 9 to 14. Boyega has since established his production company, UpperRoom Entertainment Limited, in 2016. His company co-produced the sequel to Pacific Rim, _Pacific Rim: Uprising_, in 2018, where he played the central character of Jake Pentecost. Boyega is also recognized as a strong advocate for the Black Lives Matter movement, showing solidarity with social issues.