When Disney Channel premiered Jessie in 2011, audiences were introduced to the Ross family and their quirky, lovable personalities. Among them was Ravi Ross, the intelligent, kind-hearted, and often hilarious adopted child from India who quickly became a fan favorite. His fascination with science, love for his pet lizard Mr. Kipling, and unique perspective on life made him stand out. But who plays Ravi Ross, and what has the actor been up to since his Disney days? Let’s take a closer look at Karan Brar, the talented actor behind this memorable character Buy CSCS Card.
Early Life of Karan Brar
The actor behind Ravi Ross is Karan Brar, born on January 18, 1999, in Redmond, Washington. The son of Indian immigrant parents, Karan grew up in a Punjabi household and was fluent in both English and Punjabi. Despite his young age, he displayed a natural flair for performance early on. His parents encouraged his interest in acting, enrolling him in acting classes and workshops.
Karan’s cultural background became an asset to his career, helping him bring authenticity and relatability to roles that celebrated diversity. His family’s support played a significant role in shaping his confidence and drive, which later led him to success in the competitive entertainment industry.
Karan Brar’s Breakthrough with Disney
Before becoming Ravi Ross, Karan Brar made his first big break in Hollywood by starring in the 2010 comedy Diary of a Wimpy Kid. He played Chirag Gupta, a recurring character across three films in the popular franchise. This role allowed him to showcase his comedic timing and set the stage for bigger opportunities.
In 2011, he landed the role of Ravi Ross on Disney Channel’s Jessie. Originally, the show’s producers had envisioned the character as a Hispanic boy named Javier. However, after Karan auditioned, they rewrote the role to suit his Indian heritage, allowing him to bring authenticity and representation to the role. This decision not only changed the trajectory of Karan’s career but also made Ravi one of the most memorable characters in Disney Channel history.
Ravi Ross on Jessie and Bunk’d
As Ravi Ross, Karan Brar won the hearts of millions of viewers. Ravi’s character was known for his intellect, cultural quirks, and close bond with his siblings Emma, Luke, and Zuri. His pet monitor lizard, Mr. Kipling, became a running gag throughout the series.
Ravi’s unique mix of innocence, humor, and occasional clumsiness provided comic relief and heartfelt moments. Karan’s ability to balance comedy with emotional depth made Ravi more than just a side character—he was an essential part of the Ross family dynamic.
When Jessie ended in 2015, Ravi’s story continued on Disney Channel’s spinoff Bunk’d. Along with his sisters Emma and Zuri, Ravi transitioned from city life to the rustic challenges of Camp Kikiwaka. Karan reprised his role for three seasons, further solidifying Ravi as a beloved Disney icon.
Life After Disney Channel
So, who plays Ravi Ross today? Karan Brar may have moved on from Disney Channel, but his career has continued to flourish. After his time on Bunk’d, he sought out roles that allowed him to explore different genres and expand his acting range.
Some of his notable projects include:
- Pacific Rim: Uprising (2018) – Karan appeared in this sci-fi action blockbuster, giving him exposure to a broader global audience.
- Hubie Halloween (2020) – He played a role in the Adam Sandler Netflix comedy, showing his ability to blend into diverse casts.
- Animated Projects – Karan lent his voice to various animated shows and films, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Beyond acting, Karan has expressed interest in writing and directing, hinting that his creative journey could eventually lead him behind the camera.
Personal Life and Friendships
Off-screen, Karan Brar built strong friendships with fellow Disney Channel stars. Most notably, he became roommates with Cameron Boyce (Luke Ross from Jessie) and actress Sophie Reynolds. Their close friendship was well-documented on social media and beloved by fans.
Tragically, Cameron Boyce passed away in 2019, leaving a profound impact on Karan. In heartfelt tributes, he shared how much Cameron meant to him as a brother and inspiration. Karan has since used his platform to raise awareness about epilepsy, the condition that led to Cameron’s untimely passing, keeping his friend’s memory alive.
Karan Brar’s Influence and Legacy
Karan Brar’s portrayal of Ravi Ross broke barriers in children’s television. He was one of the few South Asian characters prominently featured on a major Disney Channel series, giving representation to a demographic often underrepresented in mainstream media. For many young viewers of Indian descent, seeing Ravi on screen was a source of pride and inspiration.
Karan’s success demonstrated that diverse casting can resonate strongly with audiences, paving the way for more inclusive storytelling. His performances on Jessie and Bunk’d remain a cherished part of Disney Channel’s legacy, and his career trajectory continues to inspire aspiring young actors worldwide.
Where Is Karan Brar Now?
Today, Karan Brar continues to work in Hollywood, taking on roles that challenge him and broaden his portfolio. He frequently connects with fans on social media, sharing glimpses of his projects, personal life, and advocacy efforts.
While he has shifted away from the Disney spotlight, his role as Ravi Ross remains a defining part of his career. Fans continue to celebrate his work on Jessie and Bunk’d, while eagerly anticipating his future projects. Whether on screen or behind the camera, Karan’s dedication to storytelling ensures he’ll remain an influential figure in entertainment for years to come.
Key Facts About Karan Brar
- Full Name: Karan Brar
- Date of Birth: January 18, 1999
- Hometown: Redmond, Washington
- Breakthrough Role: Chirag Gupta in Diary of a Wimpy Kid
- Famous Role: Ravi Ross in Jessie and Bunk’d
- Post-Disney Projects: Pacific Rim: Uprising, Hubie Halloween, voice acting roles
- Fun Fact: The character Ravi was originally written as Javier, but changed to reflect Karan’s Indian heritage
Final Thoughts
So, who plays Ravi Ross? The answer is Karan Brar, a talented actor who brought heart, humor, and authenticity to the beloved Disney character. His journey from Diary of a Wimpy Kid to Jessie and Bunk’d, and now to more diverse Hollywood projects, reflects his growth as an artist. Beyond acting, his advocacy, friendships, and cultural impact make him more than just the face of a fan-favorite character.
For fans who grew up watching him on Disney Channel, Karan Brar remains a source of nostalgia and inspiration. His portrayal of Ravi Ross is etched in television history, and his evolving career ensures his story is far from over.