John Rhys-Davies

Born:May 5, 1944

Place of Birth:Ammanford, Wales, UK

Known For:Acting

Biography

John Rhys-Davies, born on May 5, 1944, in Wales, has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema with his powerful performances and distinctive voice. With a career spanning decades, he has become a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, known for his versatile roles and commanding presence on screen.

One of his most iconic roles was that of the charismatic Arab excavator, Sallah, in the Indiana Jones films, where he brought humor and warmth to the character. His portrayal of the dwarf Gimli in The Lord of the Rings trilogy showcased his talent for bringing complex and memorable characters to life, earning him a place in the hearts of fans worldwide.

Beyond his work in film, John Rhys-Davies has lent his voice to a variety of projects, including the wise and ancient ent, Treebeard, in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. His vocal artistry can also be heard in animated classics like Disney's Aladdin and popular TV shows like SpongeBob SquarePants, where he breathed life into the character of Man Ray.

In addition to his fantasy and adventure roles, Rhys-Davies has showcased his range as an actor in various genres, from playing Agent Michael Malone in The Untouchables to portraying King Richard I in Robin of Sherwood. His ability to inhabit diverse characters with depth and authenticity has solidified his reputation as a versatile performer in the industry.

One of his notable roles was as Professor Maximillian Arturo in the cult classic TV series Sliders, where he charmed audiences with his intellect and wit. His portrayal of General Leonid Pushkin in the James Bond film The Living Daylights added a touch of gravitas to the espionage thriller, showcasing his ability to command the screen with his presence.

In the realm of voice acting, John Rhys-Davies has left a lasting impact with his rich and resonant voice, which has brought to life a myriad of characters in animated films and video games. His work as Tobias in the computer game Freelancer demonstrated his talent for creating compelling and immersive performances that captivate audiences.

As a narrator for the TV show Wildboyz, Rhys-Davies brought his storytelling skills to the forefront, guiding viewers through thrilling adventures and exotic locales with his distinctive voice. His ability to captivate audiences with his narration further showcases his versatility as a performer and his enduring appeal across different mediums.

With a career filled with memorable roles and standout performances, John Rhys-Davies has established himself as a true icon in the world of entertainment. His talent, dedication, and passion for his craft have made him a beloved figure among fans and a respected presence in the industry.

Images

Filmography

Acting

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

Gimli

2001

Young hobbit Frodo Baggins, after inheriting a mysterious ring from his uncle Bilbo, must leave his home in order to keep it from falling into the hands of its evil creator. Along the way, a fellowship is formed to protect the ringbearer and make sure that the ring arrives at its final destination: Mt. Doom, the only place where it can be destroyed.

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

Gimli

2003

As armies mass for a final battle that will decide the fate of the world--and powerful, ancient forces of Light and Dark compete to determine the outcome--one member of the Fellowship of the Ring is revealed as the noble heir to the throne of the Kings of Men. Yet, the sole hope for triumph over evil lies with a brave hobbit, Frodo, who, accompanied by his loyal friend Sam and the hideous, wretched Gollum, ventures deep into the very dark heart of Mordor on his seemingly impossible quest to destroy the Ring of Power.

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom

Brine King (voice)

2023

Black Manta seeks revenge on Aquaman for his father's death. Wielding the Black Trident's power, he becomes a formidable foe. To defend Atlantis, Arthur (Aquaman) forges an alliance with his imprisoned brother. They must protect the kingdom.

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers

Gimli / Treebeard (voice)

2002

Frodo Baggins and the other members of the Fellowship continue on their sacred quest to destroy the One Ring--but on separate paths. Their destinies lie at two towers--Orthanc Tower in Isengard, where the corrupt wizard Saruman awaits, and Sauron's fortress at Barad-dur, deep within the dark lands of Mordor. Frodo and Sam are trekking to Mordor to destroy the One Ring of Power while Gimli, Legolas and Aragorn search for the orc-captured Merry and Pippin. All along, nefarious wizard Saruman awaits the Fellowship members at the Orthanc Tower in Isengard.

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny

Sallah

2023

Finding himself in a new era, and approaching retirement, Indy wrestles with fitting into a world that seems to have outgrown him. But as the tentacles of an all-too-familiar evil return in the form of an old rival, Indy must don his hat and pick up his whip once more to make sure an ancient and powerful artifact doesn't fall into the wrong hands.

Raiders of the Lost Ark

Sallah

1981

When Dr. Indiana Jones – the tweed-suited professor who just happens to be a celebrated archaeologist – is hired by the government to locate the legendary Ark of the Covenant, he finds himself up against the entire Nazi regime.

Aquaman

Brine King (voice)

2018

Half-human, half-Atlantean Arthur Curry is taken on the journey of his lifetime to discover if he is worth of being a king.

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade

Sallah

1989

In 1938, an art collector appeals to eminent archaeologist Dr. Indiana Jones to embark on a search for the Holy Grail. Indy learns that a medieval historian has vanished while searching for it, and the missing man is his own father, Dr. Henry Jones Sr.. He sets out to rescue his father by following clues in the old man's notebook, which his father had mailed to him before he went missing. Indy arrives in Venice, where he enlists the help of a beautiful academic, Dr. Elsa Schneider, along with Marcus Brody and Sallah. Together they must stop the Nazis from recovering the power of eternal life and taking over the world!

The Living Daylights

General Leonid Pushkin

1987

After a defecting Russian general reveals a plot to assassinate foreign spies, James Bond is assigned a secret mission to dispatch the new head of the KGB to prevent an escalation of tensions between the Soviet Union and the West.

The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement

Viscount Mabrey

2004

Mia Thermopolis is now a college graduate and on her way to Genovia to take up her duties as princess. Accompanied by her friend Lilly, Mia continues her 'princess lessons', like riding horses side-saddle and archery. But her already complicated life is turned upside down once again when she learns that she is to take the crown as queen earlier than expected, all while she meets a mysteriously charming young man.

Aladdin and the King of Thieves

Cassim (voice)

1996

Legendary secrets are revealed as Aladdin and his friends—Jasmine, Abu, Carpet and, of course, the always entertaining Genie—face all sorts of terrifying threats and make some exciting last-minute escapes pursuing the King Of Thieves and his villainous crew.

The Medallion

Cmdr. Hammerstock-Smythe

2003

A Hong Kong detective suffers a fatal accident involving a mysterious medallion and is transformed into an immortal warrior with superhuman powers.

Anaconda 3: Offspring

Peter "J.D." Murdoch

2008

A mercenary-for-hire accepts a mission from a billionaire to capture a dangerous snake that could possibly help cure a terminal illness.

In the Name of the King: A Dungeon Siege Tale

Merick

2007

A man named Farmer sets out to rescue his kidnapped wife and avenge the death of his son – two acts committed by the Krugs, a race of animal-warriors who are controlled by the evil Gallian.

Anacondas: Trail of Blood

Peter "J.D." Murdoch

2009

A genetically created Anaconda, cut in half, regenerates itself into two new aggressive giant snakes, due to the Blood Orchid.

The Jungle Book 2

Ranjan's Father (voice)

2003

Mowgli has been living in the man-village with his little stepbrother Ranjan and his best friend Shanti. But the man-cub still has that jungle rhythm in his heart, and he misses his old buddies Baloo and Bagheera. When Mowgli wanders back to the wild for some swingin' fun, he soon finds the man-eating tiger Shere Khan is lurking in the shadows and planning his revenge.

Time Lapse

Mr. Bezzeredes

2014

Three friends discover a mysterious machine that takes pictures 24 hours into the future and conspire to use it for personal gain, until disturbing and dangerous images begin to develop.

King Solomon's Mines

Dogati

1985

Ever in search of adventure, explorer Allan Quatermain agrees to join the beautiful Jesse Huston on a mission to locate her archaeologist father, who has been abducted for his knowledge of the legendary mines of King Solomon. As the kidnappers, led by sinister German military officer Bockner, journey into the wilds of Africa, Allan and Jesse track the party and must contend with fierce natives and dangerous creatures, among other perils.

The Pilgrim's Progress

Evangelist (voice)

2019

An epic journey, faithfully adapted to modern-day. Christian faces distractions, challenges, and perils at every turn of the way. But ends victorious, with helpful guides, as he stays on the narrow path to the distant Celestial City.

Waxwork

Werewolf

1988

Wealthy slacker college student Mark, his new girlfriend Sarah, and their friends are invited to a special showing at a mysterious wax museum which displays 18 of the most evil men of all time. After his ex-girlfriend and another friend disappear, Mark becomes suspicious.

The Double 0 Kid

Rudi Von Kseenbaum

1992

Lance, a teenager, dreams to be a secret agent when he is suddenly in the middle of an hacker intrigue which aims at an international environmental congress. Lance gets in possession of a computer access card one of which the hackers are in urgent need of for their operation. Lance begins to play with the hackers, seeing his dream come true.

Killing Jesus

Annas

2015

Jesus of Nazareth’s life and ministry were subject to seismic social and political events that led to his execution and changed the world forever.

Victor/Victoria

Andre Cassell

1982

A struggling female soprano finds work playing a male female impersonator, but it complicates her personal life.

The Trial of the Incredible Hulk

Wilson Fisk

1989

On the run again, Dr. David Banner is jailed for assault after interrupting a mugging. Blind attorney Matt Murdock enlists Banner's help in locating the muggers because he believes they work for his longtime foe, Fisk, the head of an international crime network. But David, afraid of public exposure, breaks out of jail as the Hulk. Tracking David down, Murdock reveals his own secret: His blindness came from a radioactive spill, and after developing his other senses so incredibly, he has become the amazingly athletic crime fighter called Daredevil. Fisk must now face off against Daredevil and the Incredible Hulk!