From the gritty streets of London to the final frontier of space, David Ajala's journey reads like something from a Hollywood script - but this is one story that's entirely real. The charismatic actor, currently captivating audiences as Cleveland Booker in Star Trek: Discovery, sits down for an exclusive conversation about the extraordinary path that brought him here.
London Roots, Universal Dreams
Growing up on a London council estate, young David could never have imagined he'd one day be piloting spacecraft across galaxies. "We didn't have much, but we had imagination in abundance," Ajala reflects, his voice carrying the warmth of someone who remembers exactly where he came from.
His breakthrough role came not from drama school connections, but from sheer determination. "I was working in a call centre, pursuing acting on the side," he reveals. "One day I walked into an audition for Doctor Who completely unprepared - and it changed everything."
The Star Trek Universe: More Than Just Acting
Joining the Star Trek franchise represented more than just another role for Ajala. "This universe stands for everything I believe in - diversity, hope, and the idea that we're better when we work together," he explains with genuine passion.
His character, Cleveland Booker, has become a fan favourite, bringing a unique blend of rugged individualism and deep emotional complexity to the series. "Booker is a space scoundrel with a heart of gold, and that duality really speaks to me," Ajala shares.
Beyond the Camera: Life Lessons from Set to Street
What makes Ajala's story particularly compelling is how he's translated his on-screen experiences into real-world wisdom. "Playing these characters teaches you about resilience," he notes. "Whether you're facing Klingons or life's everyday challenges, the principle is the same: keep moving forward."
The actor is refreshingly candid about the pressures of Hollywood fame. "It's easy to lose yourself in this industry," he admits. "But my London upbringing keeps me grounded. Those streets taught me about real community long before I encountered the Federation's ideals."
Looking to the Future
As Star Trek: Discovery approaches its final season, Ajala is philosophical about what comes next. "Every ending is a new beginning," he says with characteristic optimism. "I'm excited to see what stories want to be told through me next."
For aspiring actors following in his footsteps, Ajala offers simple but powerful advice: "Your background isn't a limitation - it's your superpower. Bring your whole self to every role, especially the parts you once thought were weaknesses."
