Adrian Holmes

Adrian Holmes (born March 31, 1974) is a Canadian actor whose career spans over three decades, marked by versatility and critical acclaim. Born in Wrexham, Wales to Barbadian parents, he relocated to Vancouver, Canada at the age of five, a move that would shape his cultural identity and future professional path. Holmes initially pursued nursing at Langara College, a decision influenced by his mother’s desire for a stable backup plan, yet his passion for performance soon redirected him toward the dramatic arts. He attended Queen Elizabeth Senior Secondary in Surrey before committing fully to acting, debuting professionally in 1991 and maintaining an active presence in the industry ever since. His early television work included memorable guest roles such as Basqat on Smallville and Marcus Mitchell on True Justice, establishing him as a reliable character actor. The turning point in Holmes’s career arrived with his portrayal of Nick Barron on the English‑language version of the police drama 19‑2 (2014‑2017), a performance that earned him the prestigious Canadian Screen Award for Best Actor in a Continuing Leading Dramatic Role in 2017. Beyond television, Holmes has contributed to several notable films, including Red Riding Hood, Elysium, and The Cabin in the Woods, demonstrating his capability across genres. In 2021 he was cast as Philip “Uncle Phil” Banks in Bel‑Air, a contemporary reimagining of the classic sitcom, receiving personal endorsement from Will Smith. Most recently, Holmes made history by portraying Robert April, the first captain of the USS Enterprise, in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, marking the first live‑action depiction of the iconic character. A dedicated member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Holmes balances his professional pursuits with a private family life, married to fellow actor Caroline Chikezie. His sustained relevance and evolving roles underscore a dynamic career that continues to enrich the North American entertainment landscape.