British actress Ambika Mod has opened up about the ongoing systemic challenges facing South Asian performers in the television and film industry, stating that the "glass ceiling is always getting higher."
Addressing disparities in the entertainment sector, Mod pointed to systemic racism as a barrier preventing South Asian actors from advancing at the same rate as some of their peers. Her comments arrive amid broader industry data, including reports from the Creative Diversity Network and media watchdog Ofcom, which have highlighted ongoing under-representation of minority ethnic groups across UK broadcasting, particularly within senior management, creative, and production roles.
Mod noted that she carefully vets potential projects to avoid tokenistic or stereotypical depictions, emphasizing her commitment to playing complex, multi-dimensional characters. Guided by advice from veteran actress Dame Emma Thompson—focusing on "what you do next" rather than a rigid career trajectory—Mod continues to seek out diverse and challenging projects.
Fans can next see Mod join the cast of Netflix's spy thriller Black Doves for its second season. She plays Laila, a lawless agent in the covert organization who assists Keira Knightley's character, Helen, on a high-stakes mission. Mod shared that the role drew her in because it subverted espionage tropes and allowed her to perform demanding stunt sequences.
