We sit down with Actor/Activist/Producer Behzad Dabu. Most know him for his roles in shows such as "How To Get Away With Murder", and "The Chi". Behzad is also an activist on a mission to shed light on everyday battles within inner-city communities.
Behzad Dabu is an actor, producer, and activist from Los Angeles and Chicago. He grew up in Syracuse, NY, and got his BFA in Acting from Columbia College Chicago, where he also worked after college as the Senior International Admissions Officer; traveling all over the world working with students and their families on creating careers in the arts.
He has worked extensively on stage at some of the best theaters in the country, especially in Chicago. He is a proud company member at TimeLine Theatre Company, presenting stories inspired by history that connect with today’s social and political issues. With a passion for working with playwrights and new play development, he originated the role of 'Amit' in "Samsara" at Victory Gardens Theatre, for which he was nominated for a Jeff Award - Best Actor.
He also originated the role of 'Abe' in the Pulitzer Prize-winning and Tony-nominated play, "Disgraced" which he performed at American Theatre Company, Goodman Theatre, Berkeley Repertory, Seattle Repertory, and the Mark Taper Forum at Center Theatre Group. On-screen, you can see him as 'Simon Drake' on Seasons 3 and 4 of How To Get Away With Murder on ABC, as 'Amir' on the Showtime series The Chi, and on Disney’s The Lion Guard.
He also appeared in episodes of A Good Place, Chicago P.D., Drive Share, You're So Talented, and Dealbreakers; and in the films Hoop, King Rat, Mondo Hollywoodland, Imperfections, Older Children; as well as various national commercials.
Behzad strives to be a strong advocate for social justice and equality, particularly in regards to representation in the arts and media; and is a founding member of The Chicago Inclusion Project, which seeks to level the playing field and provide resources in the arts for people of color, women, LGBTQ, and people with disabilities. He is a skilled audience engagement facilitator and experienced post-show discussion leader.
