Jay Ryan was born on August 29th, 1981

Written by: Carlos Hernandez

Known for his versatility and captivating performances, Jay Ryan is a New Zealand actor who has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry, charming audiences with his roles in popular television series and films.

Born Jay Bunyan on August 29, 1981, in New Zealand, Ryan's foray into the acting world began with minor roles in local productions, including the television series Xena: Warrior Princess and the short film Scallywag Pirates.

Ryan's breakout role came when he played Jack Scully in the Australian soap opera Neighbours, a character he portrayed from 2002 to 2005. This was followed by his portrayal of Seaman William "Billy" Webb, aka Spider, in the popular Australian drama Sea Patrol, from 2007 to 2009.

In 2011, Ryan joined the cast of the Australian comedy-drama series Offspring, and also guest-starred on the American science fiction series Terra Nova, playing a murderer, where he showcased his range by adopting an American accent. His performance as Vincent Keller in the American television series Beauty & the Beast further solidified his position as a talented actor.

Ryan's feature film breakthrough came with his portrayal of adult Ben Hanscom in the 2019 horror film It Chapter Two, the sequel to It (2017), based on the 1986 novel of the same name. His performance garnered critical acclaim and demonstrated his ability to tackle complex characters.

Ryan has been nominated for several awards for his performances, including a Best Actor in a Leading Role nomination at the 2013 New Zealand Film Awards for his performance in The Packer.

Ryan is married to playwright and director Dianna Fuemana, with whom he has a daughter born in 2013. The couple's relationship has been a source of inspiration for Ryan, who has often spoken about the importance of family in his life.

Through his diverse range of roles, Ryan has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry, showcasing his talent and adaptability. His ability to transition seamlessly between television and film has made him a sought-after actor, and his dedication to his craft has earned him a loyal fan base.

• Ryan has a strong background in theatre, having shared the stage with John Cleese and touring internationally with The Packer.
• He played Kevin in the New Zealand comedy-drama series Go Girls from 2009 to 2012.
• Ryan has also played Detective Ben Wesley in the Canadian television series Mary Kills People.

Through his remarkable career, Jay Ryan has established himself as a talented and versatile actor, with a wide range of roles that showcase his dedication to his craft. His ability to captivate audiences with his performances has earned him a place as one of the most respected actors in the industry.