Rhys Darby

Rhys Darby

Rhys Montague Darby (born 21 March 1974) is a New Zealand actor, comedian, musician, and writer. He is best known for his roles as Murray Hewitt in the New Zealand television series Flight of the Conchords, Anton in the American television series Jono and Ben, and Stede Bonnet in the HBO Max series Our Flag Means Death.

Early life

Darby was born in Auckland, New Zealand, to parents who were both teachers. He attended Auckland Grammar School and began performing comedy while still in high school. After graduating, he studied drama at the University of Auckland.

Career

Darby began his professional acting career in the early 2000s, appearing in a number of New Zealand television shows and films. In 2007, he gained international recognition for his role as Murray Hewitt in the HBO comedy series Flight of the Conchords. The show, which starred Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie, ran for two seasons and was praised for its clever writing and quirky humor.

After Flight of the Conchords ended, Darby continued to appear in a variety of film and television projects. He had notable roles in the films Yes Man (2008), The Boat That Rocked (2009), and What We Do in the Shadows (2014). He also appeared in the television series Jono and Ben (2009-2013), The Mindy Project (2013-2015), and Wrecked (2016-2017).

In 2022, Darby starred as Stede Bonnet in the HBO Max comedy series Our Flag Means Death. The show, which also stars Taika Waititi, is a historical comedy about the adventures of Bonnet, a wealthy landowner who left his life of privilege to become a pirate. The show was praised for its humor, heart, and performances, and Darby received critical acclaim for his portrayal of Bonnet.

Personal life

Darby is married to Irish actress and writer Roz White. They have two children together. Darby is a fan of cricket and rugby union, and he is a supporter of the New Zealand national cricket team and the Auckland Blues rugby union team.

Filmography

• Film

  • Yes Man (2008)
  • The Boat That Rocked (2009)
  • Predicament (2010)
  • Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)
  • What We Do in the Shadows (2014)
  • Jexi (2019)
  • Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar (2021)
  • The Bubble (2022)

• Television

  • Flight of the Conchords (2007-2009)
  • Jono and Ben (2009-2013)
  • The Mindy Project (2013-2015)
  • Wrecked (2016-2017)
  • Our Flag Means Death (2022)

Awards and nominations

• New Zealand Film and TV Awards

  • Best Actor in a Comedy Series (2008, 2009)
  • Best Male Entertainer (2010, 2011)

• Aotearoa Music Awards

  • Best Folk Album (2007)

• Grammy Awards

  • Best Comedy Album (2010)