Parminder Nagra

Parminder Kaur Nagra, better known as Parminder Nagra, is a respected English actress. Born in Leicester, England, in 1975, Nagra's acting career took flight in 1991, and she remains active to this day. She is best known for portraying Jess Bhamra in the acclaimed film 'Bend It Like Beckham' (2002) and Dr. Neela Rasgotra in the popular NBC medical drama 'ER' (2003–2009). Nagra's other notable television roles include Meera Malik in the first season of NBC's crime drama 'The Blacklist' (2013–2014) and a recurring role in the ABC/Marvel series 'Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.' (2016–2017) as Ellen Nadeer. She also headlined the ITV series 'DI Ray' (2022–2024) in the titular role. Nagra's impressive body of work extends across film, television, and stage, exhibiting her versatile talent and her commitment to her craft. Born to parents who emigrated from India, Nagra was raised amid her parents' separation and her mother's subsequent remarriage. She kickstarted her acting career in the Leicester-based theatre company Haithizi Productions, before moving to London to pursue her ambition. She rose to prominence with roles in small Indian theatre companies, radio plays, and television projects before landing her breakthrough role in 'Bend It Like Beckham', carving out a successful career in both British and American television. Despite no formal theatrical training, Nagra quickly established herself as a force in the industry, earning critical claim for her diverse roles and her natural ability to embody a range of characters. She continues to be an admired figure in the acting world, renowned for her performances and her contributions to the industry.