Aksel Hennie

Aksel Hennie, born on 29th October 1975, is a versatile Norwegian actor, director, and screenwriter. Notable for his roles in the films Headhunters (2011), Hercules (2014), and The Martian (2015), Hennie has made a significant impact in cinema. Born and raised in the Lambertseter suburb of Oslo, he led an interesting early life filled with artistic endeavors. As an adolescent, he was arrested for graffitiing and soon became an outcast in the graffiti community due to a police confession. His 'writes', signed as 'Ceel' and 'Mikro', can still be discovered around Oslo despite being mostly crossed out or lined over as a result of his confession. The conviction played a massive part in shaping Hennie’s background for the film Uno (2004), marking one of the first graffiti convictions in Norway.

After four attempts, he entered the Norwegian National Academy of Theatre and graduated in 2001. He acted at Teatret Vårt in Molde (2001–2002) and at Oslo Nye Teater from 2002, performing in plays like 'Hamlet' and 'Kvinnen Som Gifftet Seg Med en Kalkun'. His film debut happened in 2003 with Jonny Vang, where he convinced director Jens Lien that he was perfect for the role despite being considered too young. The same year he delivered performances in Buddy and Ulvesommer. He made his directorial and screenplay debut in Uno with extensive preparation in bodybuilding. In 2001, he won the 'Theatre Talent of the Year' by Dagbladet and has been recognised multiple times at the Amanda Awards. Hennie’s performance in Max Manus (2008) and Age of Heroes (2011) further demonstrated his acting prowess.