Cliff Curtis

Cliff Curtis, a renowned Maori actor, captivates audiences with his authentic portrayals of indigenous characters, shedding light on cultural identity and social challenges.

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Profession :

Movie Actor

Birthday :

July 27, 1968

Age :

56

Cliff Curtis, born in Rotorua, New Zealand, is an acclaimed actor known for his captivating performances in both New Zealand and Hollywood productions. With a career spanning over three decades, Curtis has showcased his talent in a diverse range of roles, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Fluent in both Maori and English, Curtis is a skilled martial artist with a black belt in karate and an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoys surfing and snowboarding.

Curtis’ journey began in amateur musical productions before he honed his craft at the New Zealand Drama School and Teatro Dimitri Scoula in Switzerland. His breakthrough came in 1994 with the critically acclaimed film “Once Were Warriors,” which propelled him to international recognition. Since then, Curtis has appeared in an impressive array of notable works, including “The Insider,” “Blow,” “Training Day,” “Whale Rider,” “The Last Samurai,” “Sunshine,” “Avatar,” “The Dark Horse,” “Risen,” and “Doctor Sleep.” He has also graced the small screen with captivating performances in television series like “Trauma” and “Fear the Walking Dead.”

Curtis’ talent has been widely recognized, earning him prestigious awards such as the New Zealand Film and Television Award for Best Actor and the AACTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. His exceptional performance in “Whale Rider” even garnered an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. A New Zealand actor of Maori descent, Curtis has gained international recognition for his portrayal of indigenous characters in films like “Once Were Warriors” (1994), “Whale Rider” (2002), and “The Dark Horse” (2014). His performances often explore themes of cultural identity, social issues, and the resilience of indigenous communities.

Beyond his acting career, Curtis is dedicated to advocating for indigenous rights and actively supports various charitable organizations. He proudly serves as a patron of the New Zealand Film Commission. Curtis is married to actress and producer Susan Ahia, with whom he shares two children.

Cliff Curtis continues to captivate audiences with his exceptional acting prowess, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema.