Dani Harmer (born 8 February 1989) is an English actress, television presenter, and writer. She is most prominently known for originating the title role of Tracy Beaker in the CB TV series The Story of Tracy Beaker (2002–2005) and its subsequent spin‑off series, Tracy Beaker Returns (2010–2012) and The Dumping Ground (2013–present). Harmer has also worked as a presenter on children's television and has performed in stage productions.
Early life and education
Harmer was born in Bracknell, Berkshire, England. She is the daughter of Simon and Janice Harmer. From a young age she attended the Redroofs Theatre School in Maidenhead, where she received training in acting, dance, and singing.
Acting career
-
Breakthrough role: In 2002, at the age of 13, Harmer was cast as Tracy Beaker in the adaptation of Jacqueline Wilson’s novel The Story of Tracy Beaker. The series ran for four seasons on CB TV and earned her a strong following among the network’s young audience.
-
Subsequent television work: Following the original series, Harmer reprised the role in several television specials and the spin‑off series Tracy Beaker Returns and later appeared as an adult version of the character in the 2021 drama My Mum, Your Dad (as a cameo). She has also made guest appearances on other British programmes, including The Bill (2004) and Murder in Suburbia (2005).
-
Stage work: Harden has performed in theatre productions such as The Sound of Music (as Liesl) and the touring musical Oliver! (as Nancy).
-
Presenting: From 2015 to 2018, Harmer co‑presented the CB TV segment Friday Club and hosted the children's competition series Dani’s Dream (2017).
Writing and other projects
In 2020, Harmer co‑authored a children's book titled The Adventures of Tracy Beaker with author Jacqueline Wilson, expanding the fictional universe of the original series. She has also contributed articles to youth‑focused magazines on topics such as confidence building and creative expression.
Awards and recognition
Harmer received a nomination for the British Academy Children’s Awards for Best Performer in a Comedy (2004) for her work on The Story of Tracy Beaker. In 2011, she was honoured with the Children’s Television Star award at the Royal Television Society Awards.
Personal life
Harmer has largely kept her personal life private. She has spoken publicly about her advocacy for mental‑health awareness among children and participates in charity events supporting youth arts education.
Filmography (selected)
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2002–2005 | The Story of Tracy Beaker | Tracy Beaker | Main cast |
| 2004 | The Bill | Lauren | Guest appearance |
| 2005 | Murder in Suburbia | Hannah | Guest appearance |
| 2010–2012 | Tracy Beaker Returns | Tracy Beaker | Main cast |
| 2015–2018 | Friday Club (presenter) | – | CB TV presenter |
| 2020 | The Adventures of Tracy Beaker (book) | Co‑author | Children’s literature |
References
- British Film Institute. “Dani Harmer.” BFI Film & TV Database.
- BBC Press Office. “Tracy Beaker Returns – Cast and Crew.” BBC, 2010.
- Royal Television Society. “Children’s Television Star Winners 2011.” RTS Awards Archive.
This entry reflects information available from reliable published sources up to 2026.
