Manu Bennett

Jonathan Manu Bennett, born on October 10, 1969, is a New Zealand actor known for his roles in various epic fantasy works. He gained recognition for his portrayal of Crixus in the TV series Spartacus, Allanon in The Shannara Chronicles, Slade Wilson / Deathstroke in Arrow, and Azog the Defiler in The Hobbit trilogy. Born in New Zealand, Bennett's parents are Jean Bennett, an Australian bikini model, and Ted Bennett, a New Zealand singer. He is of Māori (specifically Te Arawa and Ngāti Kahungunu) and Scottish descent. Raised in Australia, Bennett attended Merewether High School in Sydney and later Te Aute College in New Zealand. In addition to acting, Bennett has interests in modern dancing, classical ballet, and piano.