Julian Dennison

Julian Dennison, born October 26, 2002, is an accomplished New Zealand actor. His acting career kicked off with a stellar performance in the 2013 film Shopping, winning him the English Film and Television Award for Best Supporting Actor. Dennison's talent as an actor truly shines in his roles as Ricky Baker in Hunt for the Wilderpeople, Russell 'Firefist' Collins in Deadpool 2, and Belsnickel in The Christmas Chronicles 2. In 2021, he exhibited his versatility as an actor playing Josh Valentine in Godzilla vs. Kong. Dennison impressed audiences with a leading role in the 2023 film Uproar.

Born and raised in Lower Hutt, New Zealand, Dennison is the third child in a family of four and shares a twin brother named Christian. He is of Māori descent and is part of the Ngāti Hauā iwi (tribe), which belongs to the Tainui tribal confederation. After being cast in his first part during a school audition, Dennison's acting career has grown. His public service announcement against drugged driving turned into an internet sensation, a testament to his influential reach. The same advertisement led to his lead role in New Zealand's highest-grossing film Hunt for the Wilderpeople, directed by Taika Waititi. Dennison's role in Uproar earned him lauds for his 'admirable restraint', and he found his 'voice' through this lead role. Announced in January 2024, Dennison is set to take on the character Fishlegs Ingerman in the live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon.