Born on November 28, 1987, in Inverness, Scotland, Karen Sheila Gillan forged an early attachment to acting. An only child, Gillan learned to play the piano at age 7 and loved to perform. After taking part in productions at Charleston Academy, Gillan pursued acting at Edinburgh's Telford College and at Performing Arts Studio Scotland, studying under renowned theater director Scott Johnston. She later moved to London, at age 18, to study drama at prestigious Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts.

Because of her height, looks and distinctive red hair, Gillan was recruited by a modeling agency prior to becoming a working actress. Although she enjoyed runway shows and photo shoots, Gillan was always keen on furthering her acting career.

Gillan's early roles came in television, including the sketch comedy "The Kevin Bishop Show" and "The Well," a series of episodic short horror films for the BBC. Her first stage appearance was in the John Osborne play "Inadmissible Evidence," which debuted at London's venerable Donmar Warehouse in October 2011. She was also featured in the 2013 independent comedic film "Not Another Happy Ending," directed by John McKay.

In May 2009, Gillan was cast in the coveted role of Amy Pond, the Doctor's companion, in the long-running hit British science-fiction television series "Doctor Who." The role was a major breakthrough for the actress, taking her recognition factor to the next level. She and actor Matt Smith, who played the time-traveling doctor, quickly became British television's hottest couple.

In May 2014, Gillan was cast in the Ti West-directed Western film "In a Valley of Violence," opposite John Travolta, Ethan Hawke and Taissa Farmiga. Gillan will portray Ellen, the older sister to Farmiga's character. In 2014 Gillan was also cast in the TV movie "Seven Days In Hell" a comedy about a seven day tennis match.

Gillan is an avid piano player and loves to shop for vintage clothing. As a model, she worked to promote the global Fashion Targets Breast Cancer charity initiative.

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