Ken Blackburn

Kenneth Colster Blackburn MNZM, born in 1935, is a distinguished New Zealand actor and writer with a dynamic career that has flourished since 1972 across film, television, radio, and theater in New Zealand, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Over his extensive career spanning over four decades, Ken has made significant contributions to the performing arts, featuring in many beloved New Zealand television series such as *Xena: Warrior Princess*, *Farscape*, *Close to Home*, *Gliding On*, and *Shortland Street*. His filmography includes notable titles like the groundbreaking feature *Skin Deep*, *The Frighteners*, *King Kong*, and *Rest for the Wicked*.

Ken's theatrical achievements are equally impressive; his portrayal of Vladimir in *Waiting for Godot* in 1999 earned him the Best Actor accolade at the Chapman Tripp Theatre Awards. His contributions to the arts were recognized in 2005 when he received an honor in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for his services to the performing arts. Most recently, he graced the stage in Circa Theatre’s 2017 rendition of *Three Days in the Country*.

In addition to his acting prowess, Ken has also directed numerous stage, film, television, and radio productions. His life experiences and reflections were captured in his autobiographical work, *Blitz Kids*, published by the BBC in 1995.