You may recognize Cliff Curtis from his roles in the film Blow or ABC’s Missing, or perhaps as Travis in the AMC television series, Fear The Walking Dead. With a career spanning over 25 years, this versatile actor has an intriguing history in Hollywood. Let’s dive into five lesser-known facts about Cliff Curtis.
From New Zealand to Hollywood Stardom
Curtis was born in Rotorua, in the North Island of New Zealand. During his school years, he studied mau rakau, a traditional form of fighting, and developed a passion for breakdancing, even competing in several rock n’ roll dance contests. It was in New Zealand that he discovered his love for acting, performing in various theater productions such as La Mancha, Fiddler On the Roof, Downstage, Othello, The Cherry Orchard, and The End of the Golden Weather. His first film role was a small part in The Piano.
Co-Owner of a Production Company
Curtis is the co-owner of a production company in New Zealand called Whenua Films. When he isn’t starring in the hit series Fear the Walking Dead, he is busy working at his production company.
Embarking on the Avatar Journey
Years have passed since the first Avatar film hit theaters, and now James Cameron is working on not just one sequel, but four. Cliff has signed on for a lead role in all four films, playing Tonowari, the leader of the Metkayina, which is the reef people clan. The first of the four sequels is expected to be released on December 18, 2020, with the following sequels set for 2021, 2024, and 2025. Fans of Fear the Walking Dead need not worry, as it has been revealed that Cliff’s production on Avatar will work around his time on the series, ensuring his continued presence on the show.
A Master of Ethnic Versatility
Ethnically, Cliff is of Maori descent and has tribal affiliations with Ngati Hauiti and Te Arawa. Despite his own ethnicity, he has portrayed Latin American and Arab characters in theater, television, and film. His role in Avatar will see him playing a character of an ethnicity that doesn’t even exist.
A Devout Portrayal of Jesus
Cliff starred in the biblical film, Risen, and took his role very seriously. Before filming began, he took a vow of silence, refraining from speaking to other actors, producers, directors, and even hair and makeup personnel. On set, he lived without his family in a small home and ate simple foods, stating that he wanted to cleanse his body before uttering his first lines. Having been an altar boy in his youth, Cliff not only considered playing Jesus a personal goal but also approached the role with utmost reverence.
To see more of Cliff Curtis, catch him on Fear the Walking Dead or watch him on the big screen in the upcoming Avatar films starting in 2020.
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