Early life
Thandie Newton’s parents lived in Zambia in Africa. Her father is British and her mother is from Zimbabwe. Thandie was born in London, while her parents were making a visit to Britain. The family returned to Zambia but settled in Cornwall when Thandie was three years old.
Racism
Thandie grew up and attended school in Penzance. She has spoken publicly about the difficulties she had fitting in in Penzance and the racist abuse her family received. Thandie found that dance and acting helped her to overcome feelings of isolation and self-doubt.
Acting
Thandie starred in the film Flirting in 1991. She then attended the University of Cambridge, taking a degree in anthropology. After graduating, Thandie returned to acting and was cast in a number of radio, television and film productions. In 2006, she won a BAFTA for her role in the film Crash. Other film appearances include Mission Impossible 2 and Run, Fat Boy, Run.
Charity work
In 2006, Thandie wrote the introduction to a book called We Wish: Hopes and Dreams of Cornwall’s Children. The book was produced by University College Falmouth (now called Falmouth University), working with the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).
The kids writing on these pages will take their wishes, their dreams for the future, and tread the path to a brighter tomorrow. What better place to start that pilgrimage than from the ancient cradle of Cornwall? Thandie Newton, We Wish: Hopes and Dreams of Cornwall’s Children
In 2008, Thandie visited Mali in Africa with the charity World Vision to raise awareness of the lack of clean water in that country. She has also worked with the 'One Billion and Rising' movement to help bring an end to violence against women.
