There’s an Australian invasion happening in Hollywood, and one actor leading the charge is former model Jai Courtney. With a star well and truly on the rise, this Sydney boy is making a name for himself as an all-action hero.
Since his appearance in ‘All Saints’ in 2008, now 30-year-old Courtney has appeared in several action films alongside Hollywood heavyweights such as Tom Cruise and Bruce Willis. Angelina Jolie cast him in her directorial debut ‘Unbroken’ while he’s joined the ranks of comic-book adapters in this year’s upcoming ‘Suicide Squad’ with Will Smith.
Speaking of ‘Suicide Squad’, another Aussie making a name in Hollywood is Margot Robbie. Her star shines even brighter than Courtney’s with roles under her belt any young actress would be envious of. Following hot on the heels of Courtney and Robbie are other Aussies Ruby Rose and Rebel Wilson. Aussies have been infiltrating the American entertainment industry for a long time, and international audiences, for the most part, adore them. Hugh Jackman and Cate Blanchett can’t put a foot wrong, and while Russell Crowe can be an oaf, he’s still loveable. The Hemsworths (be still my exploding ovaries), Rose Byrne, Joel Edgerton, Josh Lawson, Isla Fisher, Jackie Weaver, and the inimitable Geoffrey Rush have all paved the way for this new influx of young blood from down under.
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So what is it about us that the rest of the world falls in love with? I happen to think it’s our try it and see, can do, no worries attitude. You don’t often hear about an Aussie diva (they do exist, of course, just in less concentration than some other nationalities). It’s also definitely the accents, and our Aussie exports are all so damned good-looking. What do you think? Let us know in the comments.
But as it’s Jai Courtney’s birthday (15 March) we should get back to him. He’s multitalented as a guitarist and singer, and would have been a professional if he hadn’t made it on film. And because he has made it on film, he’s had to give up rugby to protect those rugged good looks from more broken noses. One more random fact: like the rest of the characters in ‘Divergent’, Courtney has a few tattoos. One in particular is close to his heart as his goddaughter drew it. He liked her drawing of skulls so much he had it inked. Awwww.
Let me just leave you with this: Jai’s ‘Suicide Squad’ character Captain Boomerang is an Australian supervillain. Let that sink in for a second. Now try to think of any other characters who could fit that description. I can’t. An Australian supervillain whose super-ability is to throw curved bits of wood with frightening accuracy. I can’t wait. Seriously, watch the trailer. This film will be epic.