Julian Dennison Bio
Julian Bailey Dennison (born 26 October 2002) is a New Zealand actor. He starred in the 2013 film Shopping for which he won the English Film and Television Award for Best Supporting Actor. He is known for his roles as Ricky Baker in Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016), Russell ‘Firefist’ Collins in Deadpool 2 (2018), and Belsnickel in The Christmas Chronicles 2. He has also played Josh Valentine in Godzilla vs. Kong in 2021 and had a leading role in the film Uproar (2023).
Early Life and Background
Julian Dennison was born and raised in Lower Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand. He is the third of four children in his family and has a twin brother named Christian. Julian is of Māori descent and is a member of the Ngāti Hauā iwi, part of the Tainui tribal confederation. His mother, Mabelle Dennison, is an actress, which likely influenced his early interest in performing arts. He attended Naenae Primary School, where he first auditioned for a role and landed his first part in the 2013 film Shopping. He later attended Hutt International Boys’ School in Upper Hutt, furthering his education while pursuing acting.
Path to Hollywood
Julian Dennison’s journey into acting began with his role in Shopping, which marked his entry into the film industry in 2013. After this initial success, he was cast in the Australian film Paper Planes in 2015. His breakthrough came when he starred in the critically acclaimed film Hunt for the Wilderpeople, directed by Taika Waititi. This film became New Zealand’s highest-grossing film and showcased Dennison’s talent, leading to further opportunities in the industry. His performance in Hunt for the Wilderpeople caught the attention of filmmakers, resulting in his casting in various notable projects.
Julian Dennison Career
Early Career (2013–2016)
Dennison’s first notable work was in the film Shopping, which earned him the English Film and Television Award for Best Supporting Actor. Following this, he gained recognition for his role in Hunt for the Wilderpeople in 2016, which solidified his place in the industry.
Breakthrough (2016–2021)
Dennison’s role as Ricky Baker in Hunt for the Wilderpeople was a defining moment in his career. The film’s success led to his casting in Deadpool 2, where he portrayed Russell ‘Firefist’ Collins. His performance in this film further established him as a rising star in Hollywood. In 2020, he co-starred in The Christmas Chronicles 2, playing Belsnickel, and in 2021, he had a significant role in Godzilla vs. Kong, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Notable Works and Milestones
Julian Dennison’s signature work includes his performances in Hunt for the Wilderpeople and Deadpool 2, both of which received critical acclaim. His role in Shopping earned him an award, marking a significant milestone early in his career.
Julian Dennison Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Julian Dennison has received nominations for various awards, most notably winning the English Film and Television Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Shopping.
Julian Dennison Awards Won
Julian Dennison has won the English Film and Television Award for Best Supporting Actor, recognizing his outstanding performance in Shopping.
Julian Dennison Family
Julian Dennison is the son of Mabelle Dennison, who is also an actress. He has a twin brother named Christian and is part of a family of four children.
Personal Life
Information about Julian Dennison’s personal life is limited, as he tends to keep his private life out of the public eye. He is focused on his acting career and has expressed a desire to continue growing as an actor.
