Mia Tharia is a British-Indian actress gaining widespread acclaim for her powerful performances across television, film, and theatre. With breakout roles in BBC’s “Phoenix Rise,” the psychological thriller “The Listeners,” and the Cannes-selected film “September Says,” Mia has established herself as one of the most promising young talents in the UK. Her upcoming appearance in Taika Waititi’s adaptation of “Klara and the Sun” is set to cement her international reputation. Recognized by Screen International and Variety as a star to watch, Mia Tharia is rapidly becoming a defining voice of her generation in modern storytelling.
Early Life and Roots
Mia Tharia, born in May 2005, is a remarkable talent hailing from South London. Of English-Indian heritage, Mia’s multicultural background deeply informs her artistry. Raised in Balham, she found herself immersed in a vibrant, diverse community, which shaped both her identity and her creative pursuits. From a young age, Mia was drawn to performance and storytelling. Her early exposure to the arts through youth theatre programs laid the foundation for her current success.
Her training includes time spent with Brixton Youth Theatre and Burnt Orange Theatre Company, two institutions known for nurturing raw, emerging talent in the UK. These grassroots programs didn’t just hone her acting skills—they instilled in her a sense of collaboration, community, and commitment to the craft.
The Breakthrough: Phoenix Rise
Mia Tharia first caught the public’s eye with her role as Polly Shah in the BBC Three series “Phoenix Rise” (2023–2024). Set in a fictional West Midlands school, the show focuses on teenagers who return to mainstream education after being excluded. Mia’s character, Polly, was both spirited and nuanced, resonating with young viewers navigating their own paths through adolescence.
Her performance was applauded for its authenticity and depth. She brought emotional complexity to the role, portraying vulnerability and resilience with equal measure. This breakout role positioned her as a fresh face to watch in British television.
Earning Industry Respect: The Listeners
In 2024, Mia took on the role of Ashley in the psychological thriller “The Listeners” on BBC One, starring alongside critically acclaimed actress Rebecca Hall. This project showcased a new dimension of Mia’s capabilities. The storyline followed a therapist encountering a mysterious auditory phenomenon that begins to affect her patients and family.
Mia’s portrayal of Ashley was pivotal. Her subtle yet commanding screen presence stood out amidst a seasoned cast. Critics and audiences alike praised her for holding her own in such a complex narrative. The show’s tense atmosphere and eerie undertones gave Mia the opportunity to demonstrate emotional depth and dramatic range.
Cinematic Ascent: September Says
Mia Tharia’s transition into film was marked by her performance in the 2024 feature “September Says,” a drama that premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. The film received critical acclaim, and Mia’s role earned her a spot on Screen International’s prestigious “Stars of Tomorrow” list.
In “September Says,” Mia portrayed a young woman grappling with familial expectations and her own ambitions. Her ability to communicate internal conflict with minimal dialogue was a revelation. This film not only elevated her profile within the industry but also proved her adaptability across mediums.
A Bright Future with Klara and the Sun
In 2025, Mia was cast in a highly anticipated adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel Klara and the Sun, directed by the imaginative Taika Waititi. The project also stars Amy Adams and Jenna Ortega. Mia plays Josie, a central figure in the narrative—a teenager with a mysterious illness who forms a profound bond with an artificial being.
Landing a role in a film directed by a major Hollywood name and sharing the screen with renowned actors marks a significant leap in Mia’s career. Her casting speaks volumes about the trust placed in her talent and her ability to tackle emotionally complex, thought-provoking roles.
Screen International and Variety Accolades
Mia’s name continued to resonate throughout the entertainment world when she was named a 2024 Screen International Star of Tomorrow. Shortly after, she was included in Variety’s “Brits to Watch 2025,” a recognition of rising British talent poised for international acclaim.
Such endorsements are not given lightly. They signify not only current accomplishments but a belief in an actor’s potential to shape the future of the industry. For Mia Tharia, they are well-earned acknowledgments of her commitment, skill, and undeniable screen presence.
Craft and Philosophy
Mia has been open about her approach to acting. She believes in storytelling that prioritizes empathy and authenticity. In interviews, she’s spoken candidly about auditioning struggles—like forgetting lines and having to improvise. These moments didn’t hold her back; instead, they revealed a resourcefulness that directors and casting agents admire.
Beyond acting, Mia is an avid writer. She pens plays, poems, and essays in her free time. This passion for the written word enhances her understanding of character and dialogue. Her creative influences range from classic theatre to contemporary screenwriters, giving her work a grounded yet modern voice.
Youth and Versatility
One of the most striking aspects of Mia Tharia’s rise is how she balances youth with maturity. She has repeatedly expressed a desire to move past “teenager” roles and explore characters with more emotional complexity. Her filmography reflects this ambition, each role more demanding and layered than the last.
Her versatility extends beyond genre and medium. Whether it’s drama, thriller, or art-house cinema, Mia brings an honesty to her performances that captivates audiences. This range positions her not just as a popular young actress but as a serious artist with a long career ahead.
Representation and Impact
As a British-Indian actress, Mia Tharia contributes to the growing representation of South Asian voices in Western media. Her success signals a shift in casting dynamics and narrative diversity. She serves as an inspiration for young actors from multicultural backgrounds who aspire to break into the mainstream without compromising their identity.
Representation matters, and Mia is aware of the responsibility that comes with visibility. She has used interviews and public appearances to discuss inclusivity in the arts, encouraging industry leaders to invest in authentic storytelling.
Theatre Roots and Continued Growth
Despite her screen success, Mia remains connected to theatre. She frequently collaborates with London-based theatre groups and participates in workshops and small productions. These grassroots involvements keep her grounded and allow her to experiment with form and content.
Theatre offers her a creative sanctuary—a space where she can explore new ideas and push boundaries. Her stage work is marked by the same commitment and depth that define her film and television roles. In fact, many industry insiders believe her theatre background is what makes her screen performances so compelling.
Future Projects and Aspirations
Looking ahead, Mia Tharia shows no signs of slowing down. With several projects in development, including indie films and possibly her own original play, her career trajectory continues to climb. She’s also hinted at an interest in directing, particularly projects centered around young women and underrepresented communities.
What makes Mia’s path particularly exciting is that she is not driven solely by fame or accolades. Her focus remains on the work—the stories she wants to tell and the lives she wants to illuminate. That clarity of purpose is rare and refreshing.
Conclusion
Mia Tharia is more than just a promising young actress; she is a dynamic force in the making. Her blend of talent, intellect, and authenticity sets her apart in an industry often dominated by flash over substance. Each role she takes deepens her impact, and each performance brings her closer to becoming a defining voice of her generation.
In a world hungry for stories that resonate and inspire, Mia Tharia is emerging as a storyteller to believe in. From South London stages to Cannes red carpets, her journey is only just beginning—but it is already worth following closely.
