**Sir Ben Kingsley** (born Krishna Bhanji on December 31, 1943) is an acclaimed British actor, renowned for his extraordinary versatility and his ability to radically transform himself into his characters.

His most iconic and award-winning performance is that of Mahatma Gandhi in the eponymous film (1982), which earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. His film career is studded with complex and memorable roles. Notable films include *Schindler's List* (1993), where he portrayed Itzhak Stern, and the raw *Sexy Beast* (2000), in the role of the menacing Don Logan.

Kingsley is known for embodying intense and often ambiguous characters: from historical figures and wise mentors to formidable antagonists. His distinctive style is characterized by a measured yet powerful acting style, capable of conveying great emotional depth with a magnetic stage presence.