Biography
Shanika Ocean is an award-winning British actress known for her dynamic performances in television, film, and theatre. Hailing from London, she has built an impressive career across various genres, earning recognition for her talent and dedication to the craft.
Shanika developed a passion for acting from a young age, beginning her training at the Sharon Harris Drama School in northwest London. She later attended Identity Drama School under the mentorship of MBE Femi Oguns, further refining her skills. Seeking to broaden her expertise, she trained in Los Angeles at The Groundlings Theatre School and participated in masterclasses with esteemed casting director Phaedra Harris and renowned acting coach Ivana Chubbuck.
Her acting portfolio includes an array of notable television and film roles, including BBC's "Silent Witness," Hulu's "Harlots," and ITV productions "Litvinenko" and "A Confession". In 2022, she joined the cast of "The Witcher: Blood Origin" on Netflix, portraying the character Younger Cethlenn. In 2024, Shanika starred in the British film "The Critic," alongside Sir Ian McKellen & Gemma Arterton which had a UK cinema release, further solidifying her presence in the film industry. She has also been featured in campaigns for Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland, The Royal Opera House and Play Cosmo.
Beyond her on-screen roles, Shanika has gained valuable experience working as a stand-in and double on major film productions, including "Jurassic World Dominion", Kenneth Branagh's "Death on the Nile", " Amazon Prime's "Citadel," and Netflix shows "Bridgerton" and "Behind Her Eyes". These experiences have further enhanced her knowledge and expertise in the industry and played a major part in her acting training.
In October 2023, Shanika starred in the comedy theatre production "The Dating Diary," playing Laura, the confident and outgoing best friend of the main character. The play, set in North London, was well received for its relatable themes and engaging performances and received rave reviews from notable publications.
Her talent and dedication were officially recognised in February 2025 when she won The Mainstream UK Ones to Watch Best Actress Award, cementing her status as one of the industry's rising stars.
Additionally, Shanika is a trained singer and featured in OBE Gareth Malone's first ever series of "The Choir", which aired on BBC in 2006. The show saw Shanika travel to China with her fellow choristers to represent Great Britain in the World Choir Olympics. She also appeared in "The Choir Revisited" in 2008 as well as "Gareth Malone's Great Choir Reunion" in 2015.
Besides being an actress, Shanika has a background as a successful presenter and has interviewed numerous well-known artists, including Dionne Warwick, Rita Ora & Emeli Sandé. She was also the host of the SKY TV music show "Unplugged" which showcased up-and-coming British talent. Her other presenting jobs have included, SBTV, Capital Xtra Radio, the MOBO Awards and both London and LA Fashion Week.
With her continued passion for storytelling and an ever-growing body of work, Shanika Ocean remains a talent to watch in the world of film, television and theatre.
