Roland Manookian
Roland Manookian is a British actor of Armenian descent, born in London in 1979. He has built a substantial career in British film and television, becoming one of the most recognisable faces in UK crime cinema.
Rise of the Footsoldier
Manookian is perhaps best known to fans of British gangster films for his portrayal of Craig Rolfe in the Rise of the Footsoldier franchise. He originated the role in the acclaimed 2007 film Rise of the Footsoldier, and has returned to it repeatedly across the series. His credits in the franchise include Rise of the Footsoldier: Part II (2015), Rise of the Footsoldier 3: The Pat Tate Story (2017), Rise of the Footsoldier 4: Marbella (2019), and Rise of the Footsoldier: Origins (2021), making him one of the most enduring presences in the entire series.
Film Career
Before cementing himself in the Rise of the Footsoldier universe, Manookian made a strong impression as Zeberdee in Nick Love’s The Football Factory (2004), a role that helped establish him as a credible presence in British crime films. He went on to appear in further Nick Love productions, including The Business (2005). He also featured in Guy Ritchie’s RocknRolla (2008), playing the character Bandy. Other notable film appearances include Once Upon a Time in London (2019), in which he played Mad Frankie Fraser, Dead Cert (2010), Piggy (2012), and His House (2020).
Television Work
On the small screen, Manookian has accumulated a solid range of credits. He appeared in long-running police drama The Bill in 1999, as well as The Vice in 2000. He also featured in the BBC’s Dunkirk in 2004. His most prominent television role to date has been the recurring character of Teddy Mitchell in the BBC soap opera EastEnders, bringing him to a wide mainstream audience.
Background
Manookian grew up in London and is of Armenian descent. He has been a lifelong supporter of Millwall Football Club.