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Award-nominated actor Tunji Kasim has quickly established himself as a rising star in the entertainment world, known for his compelling stage performances and roles in popular television series. This year, he returns as Ned 'Nick' Nickerson in The CW's supernatural thriller/drama "Nancy Drew." Inspired by the classic books created by Edward L. Stratemeyer and penned by various authors under the pseudonym Carolyn Keene, the series follows the intelligent teenage detective Nancy Drew (Kennedy McMann) as she unravels mysteries in Horseshoe Bay, Maine. Tunji’s character, Nick, a former teenage convict and Nancy’s ex-boyfriend, has become a fan favorite as he confronts his past in Florida while aiding his friends in solving crimes in Maine. The third season of "Nancy Drew" is set to premiere on October 8, 2021.
Born in Aberdeen, Scotland, and raised in Nigeria until age 12, Tunji is the youngest of three siblings. With a Nigerian father and Scottish mother, his upbringing in both countries immersed him and his sisters in a rich, multicultural environment. After moving back to Scotland as a pre-teen, Tunji took drama classes and performed in local musicals and theatre productions. At 17, he was accepted into Glasgow’s prestigious Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Before graduating, he made his professional stage debut in Michael Attenborough's Big White Fog at London's Almeida Theatre. Coming to London exposed him to a diverse cultural landscape, blending the predominantly Black community of Nigeria with the largely white environment of Scotland, allowing him to finally feel at home.
On stage, Tunji starred in The Brothers Size by Oscar winner Tarell Alvin McCraney ("Moonlight"), directed by Bijan Sheibani. He earned an Ian Charleston Award nomination for his role in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Julius Caesar and appeared in several RSC plays, including performances at New York City’s Park Avenue Armory—his first work in the U.S. His theatre credits also include Network by Lee Hall (adapted from the 1976 film), Simon Godwin’s Antony and Cleopatra, and Yael Farber’s Les Blancs at the National Theatre. Additionally, he performed in David Farr’s King Lear and Chris Luscombe’s Much Ado About Nothing with the RSC. His film work features roles in Bill Condon's "Good Liar" and Dan Krauss' "The Kill Team."
When not filming, Tunji enjoys barefoot running and constantly sets new physical goals. Last year, he completed a sub-20-minute 5km run while raising funds for Covenant House Vancouver, an organization supporting at-risk street youth in Vancouver, B.C. This year, he aims to run a total of 1000km. A committed vegan, Tunji advocates for a lifestyle free from animal exploitation in food, clothing, and beyond. Passionate about giving back, he has actively supported various charities over the years. He currently divides his time between London and Vancouver, where he films "Nancy Drew.
