Darren J. Cunningham, known professionally as Actress, is a British electronic musician and DJ from Wolverhampton, England. Emerging in the mid-2000s, Actress quickly established himself as a unique voice in experimental club music, blending elements of techno, ambient, hip-hop, and avant-garde electronics.

His debut album, *Hazyville* (2008), introduced a hazy, textured sound that would become his signature, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated following. Cunningham’s subsequent releases, including the influential *Splazsh* (2010), which was nominated for the Mercury Prize, and *R.I.

P.* (2012), pushed the boundaries of electronic music further, melding intricate rhythms and abstract soundscapes. Known for both his enigmatic public persona and his genre-defying output, Actress is a restless innovator, often disrupting expectations with each new project.

Throughout his career, Cunningham has collaborated with visual artists, orchestras, and other musicians, underscoring his commitment to creative exploration. His work has been released predominantly on the Werk Discs and Ninja Tune labels. Beyond studio albums, Actress’s live DJ sets and performances are acclaimed for their immersive atmospheres and unpredictability, further solidifying his status as a visionary in contemporary electronic music.