Sarah Deakins

Sarah Deakins is a multi-award-winning actor, writer, and director born in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to British parents. She spent her early years in Chicago before her family relocated to Canada. Growing up, Deakins was profoundly influenced by her artist stepmother, whose struggle with schizophrenia left a lasting impact on her life and work. This personal history informs much of Deakins' storytelling, often highlighting the fragility and resilience of marginalized individuals.

A graduate of the University of Victoria's theatre program, Deakins has built an impressive portfolio in both stage and screen. Her short film "Late," which she wrote and starred in, made its way to Cannes as part of Telefilm Canada's "Not Short On Talent" program. More recently, she has won over 25 awards for her short film "Greece," produced by Brightlight Pictures. Additionally, Deakins is the creator of the award-winning half-hour pilot "Yellow," also produced by Brightlight Pictures, part of a limited anthology series titled IN PERSON, which is currently in development. She is working on a digital series called HAPPENSTANCE, inspired by her stepmother's story, focusing on those who fall through society's cracks and the individuals who strive to assist them.

Her feature script, "VIOLET," recently gained recognition, winning the top prize at the 2021 Golden Script Competition and previously placing in the top 40 of the 2020 Academy Nicholl Fellowship. Deakins divides her time between Los Angeles, Toronto, and Vancouver.