Ryan O'Kane

Bio

Ryan O’Kane is a respected New Zealand actor with an extensive career across film, television, and theatre in both Aotearoa and Australia.

Originally from Dunedin, Ryan began performing in theatre as a child and went on to study Psychology and Theatre at Otago University before pursuing his passion for acting at Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School. During his second year, he landed his first major screen role as Brad in The Insider’s Guide to Love — a performance that earned him the Qantas Media Award for Best Actor in a Drama Series.

Ryan’s television work spans some of the most recognised series on both sides of the Tasman, including The Panthers, My Life is Murder, The Brokenwood Mysteries, One Lane Bridge, n00b and Shortland Street, as well as Australian productions City Homicide, Underbelly: Fat Tony & Co., Peter Brock, and Home & Away

On stage, Ryan recently appeared in Auckland Theatre Company’s 2025 production of Murder on the Orient Express at the Waterfront Theatre, playing the dual roles of Colonel Arbuthnot and Samuel Ratchett under the direction of Shane Bosher. His previous theatre credits include North by Northwest (ATC), A Streetcar Named Desire (Silo Theatre), Christ Almighty (BATS Theatre), and the national tour of Apollo 13, directed by Kip Chapman.

Ryan’s film credits include Justice for Bunny King, Baby Done, Flamingo, 6 Days, Hillary, Tangiwai, HOWZAT! – Kerry Packer’s War, and Mary: The Making of a Princess, where he portrayed Prince Frederik. His most recent feature film, Zombucha! (2025), sees him in the lead role of Leo — written by and co-starring Emma Leonard, with whom he previously collaborated on Flamingo. The film was shot in Australia and is set for release later this year.

Known for his versatility, warmth, and commitment to craft, Ryan O’Kane continues to be one of the most respected and sought-after actors working across New Zealand and Australian screen and stage.