Cliff Curtis biography, nationality, net worth, married, movies and tv shows

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<p><strong><h2>Early Life and Cultural Roots</h2></strong></p>

<p>Cliff Curtis, whose full name is <a href="/biography/cliff-curtis">Clifford Vivian Devon Curtis</a>, was born on July 27, 1968, in Rotorua, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. Of Māori descent, he is proud of his heritage and culture. His father was a traditional Māori dancer, and this artistic influence helped shape his early interests. During his youth, Curtis studied the Māori martial art of taiaha, a traditional weapon-based fighting style. He also participated in breakdancing and rock-and-roll dance contests, showcasing his multifaceted performance talents.</p>

<p>He attended Western Heights High School in Rotorua before pursuing an acting career. Curtis furthered his education in the arts by attending Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School. His dedication to the craft led him to Switzerland, where he continued his training at the prestigious Teatro Dimitri Scuola, known for its focus on physical theater.</p>

<h2>Acting Career Beginnings in New Zealand</h2>

<p>Curtis launched his acting career in New Zealand, making his screen debut in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jane_Campion">Jane Campion</a>’s acclaimed 1993 film <em>The Piano</em>. Although his role was small, the film’s critical success brought him to the attention of filmmakers. His breakout role came shortly after in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lee_Tamahori">Lee Tamahori</a>'s 1994 drama <em>Once Were Warriors</em>, which received international acclaim and established Curtis as a prominent actor in New Zealand cinema. He continued building his resume with local projects, including <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Hurst">Michael Hurst</a>'s comedy <em>Jubilee</em>.</p>

<h2>Expanding Horizons: International Career</h2>

<p>After establishing himself in New Zealand, Curtis transitioned into international cinema. Known for his versatility, he has portrayed characters from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds, including Latin American, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arabs">Arab</a>, and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Native_Americans_in_the_United_States">Native American</a> roles. Curtis has worked with several prominent Hollywood directors and actors, including <a href="/biography/johnny-depp">Johnny Depp</a>, <a href="/biography/martin-scorsese">Martin Scorsese</a>, and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M._Night_Shyamalan">M. Night Shyamalan</a>. While his role in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M._Night_Shyamalan">Shyamalan</a>’s 2010 film <em>The Last Airbender</em> was critically panned, it did little to derail his growing career.</p>

<p>One of his most recognized roles is that of Porourangi in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niki_Caro">Niki Caro</a>’s <em>Whale Rider</em>. The film was a commercial and critical success, grossing over $40 million at the global box office and receiving multiple awards and nominations. Co-star <a href="/biography/keisha-castle-hughes">Keisha Castle-Hughes</a> earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role.</p>

<p>Curtis later joined the cast of AMC’s <em>Fear the Walking Dead</em>, a companion series to the popular show <em>The Walking Dead</em>. He played <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Travis_Manawa">Travis Manawa</a>, one of the show’s central characters during its early seasons.</p>

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<h2>Recent Roles and Portrayal of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesus">Jesus</a> in "Risen"</h2>

<p>In another notable role, Curtis portrayed <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesus">Jesus Christ</a> in the 2016 film <em>Risen</em>, directed by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Reynolds_(director)">Kevin Reynolds</a>. The film explores the resurrection of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesus">Jesus</a> from the perspective of a Roman military officer. This casting further demonstrated Curtis's range and ability to embody spiritually and historically significant figures.</p>

<h2>Private Life and Personal Background</h2>

<p>Cliff Curtis is known for being intensely private about his personal life. Despite his celebrity status, he has consistently kept his family life away from public attention. It is publicly known, however, that he married in 2009. Curtis is one of nine siblings and has often credited his large Māori family for shaping his values and grounded perspective.</p>

<p>Though estimates suggest his net worth is around $3 million, the exact figure remains speculative. Regardless of the number, Curtis continues to focus on meaningful projects rather than commercial fame.</p>

<h2>Legacy and Recognition</h2>

<p>In 2014, Curtis delivered a critically acclaimed performance in <em>The Dark Horse</em>, winning the Asia Pacific Screen Award and the New Zealand Film Critics (DFCC) Award for Best Actor. The role, in which he portrays <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genesis_Potini">Genesis Potini</a>—a real-life <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genesis_Potini">speed chess champion</a> battling bipolar disorder—earned praise for its depth and emotional resonance.</p>

<p>Though already a seasoned actor, many in the film industry believe Curtis’ most defining roles may still lie ahead. With a career built on cultural pride, exceptional versatility, and unwavering dedication, Cliff Curtis remains one of New Zealand’s most talented and respected actors.</p>

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