Roxy Shahidi, born Rokhsaneh Ghawam-Shahidi on 14 March 1983, is a renowned British actress, screenwriter, and wellness advocate. Born to an Iranian father and an English mother, Roxy grew up in Nottingham, England, where she developed a passion for performing arts at a young age. Her multicultural background and dedication to her craft have helped shape her into a versatile and relatable figure in the British entertainment industry.
Roxy is best known for her long-standing role as Leyla Harding in the ITV soap opera Emmerdale. Her portrayal of Leyla captured the hearts of viewers, making her one of the most recognisable and loved faces on British television. Beyond acting, Roxy has established herself as a wellness advocate and yoga instructor, demonstrating her multifaceted talents and commitment to personal growth.
Early Life and Passion for Acting
Roxy Shahidi’s early life in Nottingham played a crucial role in her development as an actress. Growing up in a household that embraced both Iranian and English cultures, she gained a deep appreciation for diverse stories and perspectives. She attended local schools where she first showcased her acting abilities in school plays and local theatre productions.
Her determination and talent earned her opportunities in television and theatre, leading to her professional debut in BBC Three’s comedy-drama Sinchronicity in 2006. This early experience laid the foundation for a successful career in the competitive world of British television.
Rise to Fame: Emmerdale and Iconic Role of Leyla Harding
Breakthrough Role
Roxy Shahidi’s breakthrough came when she joined the cast of Emmerdale in 2008 as Leyla Harding. The character quickly became a fan favourite due to her complexity, warmth, and resilience. Leyla’s storylines often explored family dynamics, personal struggles, and romantic entanglements, allowing Roxy to display her acting range and emotional depth.
Character Development and Story Arcs
Over the years, Leyla Harding evolved into a multi-dimensional character. Roxy’s portrayal highlighted Leyla’s strength in facing personal challenges, including professional ambitions, family conflicts, and romantic heartbreaks. Her performance resonated with audiences, who admired Leyla’s determination and authenticity.
Roxy left Emmerdale temporarily in 2011 but returned in 2013, solidifying her role as a staple of the soap. Her time on the show spanned more than a decade, during which she became a household name. Her dedication to Leyla’s character made her one of the most recognised and respected actresses in the UK television industry.
Departure from Emmerdale
In February 2025, Roxy Shahidi’s character, Leyla Harding, was written off the show in a dramatic limousine crash storyline. The exit marked the end of an era, both for the actress and for fans who had followed Leyla’s journey for years. Roxy has openly spoken about the emotional impact of leaving a character she had embodied for 17 years, sharing how it challenged her sense of identity and personal growth.
Beyond Acting: Wellness, Yoga, and Personal Growth
Roxy Shahidi is not just an accomplished actress; she is also a passionate advocate for wellness and personal development. She is a qualified yoga instructor and founder of her wellness brand YogaRox, which offers classes, workshops, and online resources designed to promote physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.
Her dedication to wellness stems from her belief that a balanced life is essential for creativity and happiness. Through yoga, meditation, and mindful practices, Roxy encourages others to explore their potential, overcome challenges, and cultivate confidence.
The Role of Wellness in Her Life
Roxy often credits yoga and mindfulness as key factors in her career longevity and personal fulfilment. Balancing the pressures of the entertainment industry with wellness practices has allowed her to maintain focus, resilience, and emotional stability. She regularly shares insights and practical tips through her workshops and social media platforms, inspiring thousands of followers.
Wellness Advocacy
Roxy’s work as a wellness advocate goes beyond yoga instruction. She speaks publicly about mental health, self-confidence, and resilience, drawing from her experiences in the acting world. Her message is clear: nurturing the mind and body is as important as professional success, and embracing wellness practices can lead to a more meaningful and balanced life.
Screenwriting and Creative Ventures
In addition to her acting and wellness work, Roxy Shahidi has ventured into screenwriting. She has signed with top talent agencies and contributed to episodes of popular British television series such as Holby City and Doctors. Her experience as an actress provides her with a unique perspective, enabling her to create authentic characters and compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.
Roxy’s interest in storytelling extends beyond performance; she aims to explore diverse and inclusive narratives that reflect contemporary society. Her work behind the scenes showcases her versatility and commitment to creativity in all forms.
Public Appearances and Media Presence
Reality TV and Competitions
Roxy Shahidi has also appeared on reality TV, including ITV’s Dancing on Ice in 2024. Her participation demonstrated her willingness to embrace new challenges and push herself outside her comfort zone. Although she was eliminated mid-competition, her enthusiasm, dedication, and sportsmanship earned her admiration from viewers and fellow contestants alike.
Podcasts and Interviews
Roxy has co-hosted podcasts such as Celebrity Side Hustles, where she discusses career growth, creativity, and personal development. Through these platforms, she shares her experiences, advice, and insights, providing inspiration for aspiring actors, wellness enthusiasts, and anyone pursuing a multifaceted career.
Personal Life and Family
Roxy Shahidi is married to actor Arsher Ali, and the couple has a daughter together. Despite her public persona, Roxy maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing on family and wellbeing. She has often spoken about the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, especially while managing the demands of acting and public appearances.
Her multicultural background, combined with her experiences in the entertainment industry, has shaped her worldview and influenced her work as an actress, screenwriter, and wellness advocate.
Legacy and Influence
Roxy Shahidi’s influence extends far beyond her role in Emmerdale. She is admired for her dedication, versatility, and authenticity, inspiring both her peers and fans. By combining acting, writing, and wellness, she has crafted a unique career path that demonstrates the power of passion, resilience, and self-belief.
Her legacy is one of empowerment: she encourages individuals to embrace their talents, prioritise wellbeing, and pursue their goals with confidence. Roxy Shahidi exemplifies the modern entertainer—creative, compassionate, and committed to making a positive impact.
Conclusion: Roxy Shahidi – More Than an Actress
Roxy Shahidi’s journey is a testament to talent, hard work, and personal growth. From her early days in Nottingham to becoming a celebrated actress, wellness advocate, and screenwriter, she has continually evolved and embraced new opportunities. Her work in Emmerdale left an indelible mark on British television, while her wellness initiatives and creative projects demonstrate her versatility and dedication to making a difference.
Roxy Shahidi’s story is one of inspiration. She shows that success is not just about fame, but about cultivating balance, creativity, and authenticity. Her contributions to acting, wellness, and storytelling continue to resonate with audiences, making her a role model for aspiring artists and wellness enthusiasts alike.
Roxy Shahidi remains a figure of resilience, creativity, and inspiration—a modern icon whose influence transcends the screen and encourages others to live authentically, passionately, and mindfully.
