Meet Ben Kingsley’s Kids: Ferdinand, Jasmin Bhanji, Thomas Alexis Bhanji, and Edmund Kingsley

Sir Ben Kingsley, born Krishna Pandit Bhanji on December 31, 1943, in Snainton, North Riding of Yorkshire, England, is one of Britain’s most acclaimed actors, celebrated for transformative performances in films such as Gandhi, Schindler’s List, and Sexy Beast.

Of mixed heritage, Kingsley’s father, Rahimtulla Harji Bhanji, was a Gujarati Indian doctor of Ismaili Muslim descent, while his mother, Anna Lyna Mary Bhanji, was an English actress and model.

Raised in Pendlebury, Salford, alongside an older brother and two younger sisters, Kingsley grew up in a home that blended discipline from his father’s medical profession with creativity from his mother’s artistic background. Although not brought up in a strictly religious environment, he has described himself as spiritual rather than aligned with any single faith.

Educated at Manchester Grammar School, Kingsley developed a passion for acting that led him to Pendleton College (now Salford City College) and eventually the Royal Shakespeare Company, where his stage career began before transitioning to an internationally celebrated film career.

Now 81 years old, Kingsley stands 5 feet 8 inches tall and has been married four times. His first marriage, to actress Angela Morant (1966–1972), produced two children — Jasmin Bhanji and Thomas Alexis Bhanji.

His second marriage, to theatre director Alison Sutcliffe (1978–1992), brought two more sons — Edmund Kingsley and Ferdinand Kingsley. A third marriage to Alexandra Christmann (2003–2005) ended in divorce, and since 2007, he has been married to Brazilian actress Daniela Lavender, with whom he has no children.

Ferdinand Kingsley

Born in 1988 to Ben Kingsley and his third wife, actress and theatre director Alison Sutcliffe, Ferdinand Kingsley has carved out a notable career in acting, much like his father.

Growing up in a creative household, Ferdinand was exposed to the arts at an early age, which likely influenced his decision to pursue acting. He studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, honing his craft before stepping into the spotlight.

Ferdinand has appeared in a range of television, film, and stage productions. He is perhaps best known for his role as Hob Gadling in Netflix’s The Sandman (2022), where he portrayed an immortal character with depth and charisma.

Other credits include roles in Victoria (2016), Mank (2020), and Dracula (2020). Despite his father’s towering legacy, Ferdinand has spoken about forging his own path, emphasizing his desire to be recognized for his talent rather than his surname.

In interviews, he’s described his father as supportive but never overbearing, allowing him to navigate the industry independently.

Jasmin Bhanji

Jasmin Bhanji, born in 1965, is the eldest of Ben Kingsley’s children, from his first marriage to actress Angela Morant. Unlike her father and half-brother Ferdinand, Jasmin has largely stayed out of the acting world, choosing instead to pursue a career in the visual arts.

She is a talented artist and illustrator, renowned for her evocative and intricate pieces that reflect her distinctive perspective. Jasmin has maintained a relatively low profile compared to her famous father, but her creative pursuits align with the artistic spirit that runs through the Kingsley family.

Jasmin’s choice to channel her creativity into visual art rather than performance highlights the diverse ways in which Ben Kingsley’s children have expressed their talents.

Thomas Alexis Bhanji

Thomas Alexis Bhanji, born in 1968, is the second child of Ben Kingsley’s marriage to Angela Morant. Like his sister Jasmin, Thomas has opted for a life away from the public eye.

What is known is that Thomas has pursued a career outside of the entertainment industry, with some sources suggesting he has worked in fields such as business or academia.

Ben Kingsley has spoken sparingly about his children in interviews, respecting their privacy, but he has expressed pride in their independence and individual achievements. Thomas, in particular, seems to embody this independence, choosing a path distinct from his father’s high-profile career while still maintaining a close family bond.

Edmund Kingsley

Edmund Kingsley, born in 1982, is the younger son of Ben Kingsley’s marriage to Alison Sutcliffe.

Like his brother Ferdinand, Edmund has followed in his father’s footsteps into the acting world, building a diverse portfolio that spans film, television, and theatre.

A graduate of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), one of the world’s most prestigious drama schools, Edmund has demonstrated a commitment to his craft.

Edmund’s credits include roles in films such as Allied (2016) and The Last Legion (2007), as well as appearances in television series like Endeavour and The Borgias. He’s also made a name for himself on the stage, performing in various theatrical productions in the UK.

Edmund has spoken about the influence of his father’s work ethic and dedication to acting, noting that while the Kingsley name opens doors, it also comes with the pressure to prove oneself. His performances are marked by a quiet intensity and versatility, qualities that echo his father’s approach to acting.