Katie Leung
Full Name and Common Aliases
Katie Leung is a Scottish actress born on August 4, 1987.
Birth and Death Dates
August 4, 1987 - (still alive)
Nationality and Profession(s)
Scottish/British; Actress
Early Life and Background
Katie Leung was born in London to Chinese parents. She spent her early years in the East End of London before moving to Glasgow with her family at the age of five. Growing up in a culturally diverse environment, Leung developed an interest in dance, music, and acting.
Leung's introduction to the performing arts began when she started attending the Rutherglen Academy School of Music, where she received training in piano, violin, and ballet. Her experience in the arts helped shape her skills as an actress. At a young age, Leung began taking roles in school plays and local productions.
Major Accomplishments
Katie Leung is best known for her portrayal of Cho Chang in the Harry Potter film series. She joined the cast at the age of 17 and remained with the franchise until the conclusion of the final installment in 2011.
Leung's experience in the Harry Potter series provided her with a strong foundation in acting, helping her navigate complex characters and storylines. The exposure also allowed her to work alongside renowned actors such as Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint.
In addition to her role in the Harry Potter franchise, Leung has appeared in several other notable productions, including Anna (2013), a historical drama film, and _The Last Kingdom_ (TV series, 2015-2022).
Notable Works or Actions
Leung's time on set for the Harry Potter films was marked by challenges. The actress initially struggled with the pressure of performing in front of large audiences. However, she overcame her difficulties through dedication to her craft and collaboration with her co-stars.
A significant aspect of Leung's career is her commitment to social causes. She has been involved in various charitable initiatives, including UNICEF, which she supports as a Goodwill Ambassador. Leung has also worked closely with organizations focused on promoting literacy and education for underprivileged children.
Impact and Legacy
Katie Leung's portrayal of Cho Chang remains iconic among Harry Potter fans worldwide. Her character's growth throughout the series was particularly noteworthy, showcasing Leung's acting abilities in conveying depth and emotion.
Beyond her individual accomplishments, Leung has contributed to a more diverse representation in British cinema and television. Her experiences as an Asian actress in predominantly white casts have helped pave the way for future generations of actors from underrepresented backgrounds.
The impact of Leung's work extends beyond the entertainment industry. As a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF, she continues to raise awareness about important social issues affecting children around the world.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Katie Leung is widely recognized and quoted due to her influential portrayal in the Harry Potter series. Her ability to bring Cho Chang to life on screen has left a lasting impression on audiences. The actress's commitment to charitable causes, particularly education and literacy initiatives, further solidifies her position as a respected figure.
Leung's experiences have also made her an inspiration for young actors from diverse backgrounds. She continues to navigate the challenges of acting while promoting inclusivity in the entertainment industry, ensuring that her legacy extends far beyond the screen.
Quotes by Katie Leung

Wild Swans' showed me there are Chinese traditions that still affect my life. For example, it's not that women are inferior, exactly, but my dad and my brother are the most important men in my life and I would do anything for them. I feel like I should be the one cooking and looking after them.

I can't believe I'm here. It's inevitable that a few girls are going to be jealous, but everyone in the crowd has been lovely to me.

I couldn't understand why people were so angry. A lot of the messages were from jealous girls who didn't like the fact that I play Harry's love interest in the film and some of them did bring my ethnicity into it.

I think everybody here is proud of me. I'm Chinese and I think my trip here will be good for the film.

One of the things I liked about my character in 'Run' is that she can just disappear into the background if she wants, which is what I'm like.

I'm very quiet. I can go a whole week without talking, so doing interviews is really awkward for me!



