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Spotlight

Supinder Wraich: Trailblazing Representation in North American Television

Naina Grewal Darpan, 21 Mar, 2024
  • Supinder Wraich: Trailblazing Representation in North American Television

With her compelling performances and dedication to authentic representation, Supinder Wraich has been breaking barriers and making waves in the entertainment industry. With a diverse background and a passion for storytelling, Wraich has carved out a niche for herself in both traditional television and digital media.

Wraich's breakout roles include starring in acclaimed web series such as Guidestones and The 410. Notably, her recent starring role playing a Sikh Punjabi rookie police officer in the CBC original series titled Allegiance (available to watch on the free CBC Gem streaming platform) marks a groundbreaking moment in North American television, as it is the first time a police procedural has centred on a character of this background. Wraich's performance has been garnering praise for its depth, earning her recognition across the nation.

In regard to the theme of Allegiance, Wraich shares that the show confronts the stark reality that our justice system is flawed and fully embraces that truth. Wraich notes, "What's legal isn't necessarily always what's fair." However, the tone of the show is imbued with hope, advocating for a police force that embodies positive change. As such, the storytelling challenges conventions with a light touch, inviting introspection without overwhelming the audience.

Beyond her on-screen work, Wraich has also made significant contributions behind the scenes, having written and directed short films like Chinesey and Ruby's Tuesday, "It's nice stepping into a story penned by someone else, but I also love creating and writing.", shares Wraich.

Reflecting on her journey, Wraich candidly shares the challenges she has faced as a woman of colour in the industry. From navigating auditions to confronting stereotypes, she has remained steadfast in her commitment to true representation, even amidst setbacks. She details, "When things don't go my way, I sincerely believe it wasn't meant for me, and something else is. There is faith."

As she continues to make strides in her career, Wraich remains grounded in her roots and committed to uplifting others. She recognizes the importance of using her platform to inspire the next generation of storytellers and to challenge the status quo. Through her work and her words, Wraich is not only reshaping the landscape of North American television but also paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse entertainment industry.

Wraich highlights, "With approximately 800,000 Sikhs in Canada, we stand as one of the fastest-growing communities, both in numbers and influence. There was a moment when I saw my face on the poster, but I knew I wasn't standing alone. It's a collective achievement, a testament to our unity and resilience. It's a moment that belongs to all of us, and it's a beautiful feeling to share in this triumph together."

 

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