From Colombo to the Globe: Hiran Abeysekera Cast as First Non-White Hamlet at National Theatre in London

In a groundbreaking moment for both Sri Lankan and global theatre, Hiran Abeysekera is set to play Hamlet at the National Theatre in London in 2025 — becoming the first non-white actor to portray the iconic role on that prestigious stage.

The announcement marks a historic milestone not just for Abeysekera’s career, but for the National Theatre itself, as it takes a progressive step toward greater diversity and representation in classical theatre.

Hiran, who shot to international fame with his Olivier Award-winning performance in Life of Pi, will now join the ranks of legendary actors who have brought Shakespeare’s most complex character to life, including:

• Sir Ian McKellen (Gandalf) – 1971 & 2021
• Alan Rickman (Snape) – 1992
• Ralph Fiennes (Voldemort) – 1995
• David Tennant (Doctor Who) – 2008
• Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock) – 2015
• Andrew Scott (Moriarty) – 2017
• Tom Hiddleston (Loki) – 2017

Born and raised in Sri Lanka, Hiran began his artistic journey through school theatre before pursuing professional training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.

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