Who Is Cliff Curtis? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Cliff Curtis, a renowned New Zealand actor, was born on July 27, 1968. As of 2025, he is 57 years old and continues to be a prominent figure in film and television. With a rich career that spans over three decades, Curtis has showcased his versatility, playing a variety of roles that highlight his dynamic acting skills.
| Occupation | Voice Actors |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 27, 1968 |
| Age | 56 Years |
| Birth Place | Rotorua, New Zealand |
| Horoscope | Leo |
| Country | New Zealand |
Popularity
Cliff Curtis's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Cliff Curtis stands at an impressive height of 6 feet (183 cm) and has an athletic build weighing approximately 180 pounds (82 kg). His physical presence, combined with his acting capabilities, allows him to take on a diverse range of characters, making him a sought-after actor in Hollywood. Curtis's body measurements reflect his dedication to fitness, enabling him to perform demanding roles convincingly.
In 2014, Curtis played the lead role in The Dark Horse, which the National Radio review called "one of the greatest New Zealand films ever made." The New Zealand Herald praised him for his "towering performance" as real-life Gisborne speed chess player and coach Genesis Potini, who died in 2011. Curtis studied chess and deliberately put on weight for the role.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Currently, Cliff Curtis is often regarded as a private individual when it comes to his personal life. While he has been linked to various relationships over the years, specific details about his current boyfriend or partner are scarce as Curtis prefers keeping his romantic life out of the public eye. He is known to value his family time, balancing his career with quality relationships with loved ones.
His first feature film role was a small part in the Oscar-nominated Jane Campion film The Piano.
He went on to win attention in Once Were Warriors, one of the most successful films released on New Zealand screens; the line "Uncle fucken Bully" referring to Curtis's character spoken by "Jake the Muss", played by Temuera Morrison, became one of New Zealand film's most memorable and quoted lines, as well as being part of the "Kiwiana" trend.
He played Kahu in the short-film Kahu & Maia, a contemporary depiction of a Ngāti Kahungunu and Ngāti Rongomaiwahine legend. He played a seducer in the melodrama Desperate Remedies. In 2000 Curtis starred as family man Billy Williams in Jubilee, before playing father to the lead character in the international hit Whale Rider.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Cliff Curtis has an estimated net worth of around $6 million. This wealth primarily stems from his extensive career in film and television, as well as various endorsements and appearances. His salary varies depending on the project, with Curtis reportedly earning significant compensation for his lead roles in major productions and television series.
Career, Business, and Investments
Cliff Curtis's career highlights include notable performances in films such as “Whale Rider,” “Training Day,” and recent projects like “Fear the Walking Dead.” Over the years, he has established a solid reputation, making him a preferred choice for diverse characters that challenge the norm. Beyond acting, Curtis has also engaged in producing projects and exploring investments within the entertainment sector, showcasing his business acumen.
He had television series roles on NBC's Trauma and ABC's Body of Proof and Missing. From 2015 to 2017, he portrayed Travis Manawa on the AMC horror drama series Fear the Walking Dead. Curtis is also the co-owner of the independent New Zealand production company Whenua Films.
Social Network
Cliff Curtis maintains a moderate presence on social media platforms, allowing fans to connect with him on his journey. His Instagram and Twitter accounts serve as platforms where he shares glimpses of his professional endeavors, behind-the-scenes moments, and insights into his life as an actor. His engagement with fans reflects his down-to-earth personality and commitment to his craft.
In 2004 with producer Ainsley Gardiner, Curtis formed independent film production company Whenua Films. The goals of the company are to support the growth of the New Zealand indigenous film-making scene, and support local short filmmakers.
He and Gardiner were appointed to manage the development and production of films for the Short Films Fund for 2005–06 by the New Zealand Film Commission. They have produced several shorts under the new company banner, notably Two Cars, One Night, which received an Academy Award nomination in 2005, and Hawaikii by director Mike Jonathan in 2006.
Both short films circulated through many of the prestigious international film festivals like the Berlinale.
Education
Curtis pursued his passion for acting at the Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School, where he honed his skills and prepared for a successful career in performance arts. His education laid the groundwork for his adaptability and ability to immerse himself in a variety of roles, contributing to the successful and diverse portfolio he boasts today.
As a boy he studied mau rākau, a traditional Māori form of taiaha fighting, with Māori elder Mita Mohi on Mokoia Island, which nurtured his abilities as a performer in kapa haka. Curtis later performed as a breakdancer and competitively in rock 'n' roll dance competitions. He received his secondary education at Edmund Rice College, Rotorua.
Curtis graduated from Toi Whakaari in 1989 with a Diploma in Acting.
