A truly multifaceted actor, artist, and writer! Born on October 20, 1958, in New York City, Mortensen is best known for his iconic portrayal of Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. However, his career spans decades and includes a wide range of roles that demonstrate his versatility and depth as an actor.
Mortensen’s breakout role as Aragorn catapulted him to international stardom, earning him legions of fans and solidifying his place in cinematic history. But even before The Lord of the Rings, Mortensen had showcased his talent in films such as The Indian Runner (1991), Carlito’s Way (1993), and G.I. Jane (1997). His dedication to his craft is evident in the physicality and emotional depth he brings to each role. Whether it’s learning new languages or diving into demanding stunts, Mortensen goes all in.
Beyond acting, Mortensen is also a poet, photographer, painter, and musician. His artistic talents are displayed in numerous exhibitions, and he has published several books of poetry and photography, showcasing a quieter, introspective side of himself.
His post-Lord of the Rings career has seen continued critical success with films like Eastern Promises (2007), Captain Fantastic (2016), and Green Book (2018), for which he earned Academy Award nominations and widespread praise. Mortensen is a rare example of an actor who continues to challenge himself with complex roles while maintaining a deep connection to his artistic roots.
As he turns 66, fans across the world celebrate his remarkable contributions to film and the arts. Viggo Mortensen’s legacy continues to grow, and his passion for storytelling—both onscreen and off—remains as strong as ever.
