BAFTA-nominated British-Iranian actress Leila Farzad rose to fame in I Hate Suzie before landing her role in BBC drama Better. The show, which first aired in 2023, was cancelled after just one series despite averaging nearly four million viewers an episode.
Early Life and Oxford Education
Born in Westminster, London, on 30 December 1981 to Iranian parents, Leila was raised in a family that prioritised academic excellence. Before pursuing acting, her parents demanded she secure a place at Oxford or Cambridge. She met that expectation by studying French and Italian Literature at Worcester College, Oxford, before moving on to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama for professional training.
Her British-Iranian background has played a pivotal role in her life. She has spoken about growing up between two cultures and has used her profile to highlight the struggles faced by Iranian women, especially amid the nation's political upheaval.
Career and Surprise Drama Cancellation
Leila's acting journey began with a voice role in Channel 5's Peppa Pig from 2004 to 2015, voicing Mummy Pony and Mummy Cat. Her live-action debut came in 2009 on ITV's Law and Order: UK. Her major break arrived at age 37 when she landed a role in the critically praised series I Hate Suzie, after years of setbacks and battles against typecasting.
She later starred as corrupt DI Lou Slack in the BBC drama Better, alongside Andrew Buchan as ruthless Irish gangster Col McHugh. Despite the show's success, it was cancelled after one series. A TV insider told The Sun: "Better did good business, averaging almost four million viewers an episode, and there was an appetite to learn more. But the BBC is keen to bring a slew of new shows, which means some popular dramas have to make way."
Marriage and Family Life
Leila married James Maizels in October 2013, and the couple welcomed their daughter Allegra in 2014. They had been close friends for over six years before their relationship blossomed. She has praised her husband as a supportive partner and devoted father.
Despite her social media presence, Leila keeps her personal life private. Better is available to watch now on BBC iPlayer.
