Nathaniel Lees

Personal context

Summary

Nathaniel Lees is a New Zealand actor and theatre director of Samoan descent, known for roles in The Matrix films, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, Sione’s Wedding, and the Samoan-language film The Orator. His stage and screen work spans comedy, drama, and Pacific storytelling. Lees has spoken about racism and the challenges Pacific artists faced in the industry, and has described helping reshape Pacific Islanders’ portrayal as part of his work; he also encourages young Pacific people to explore their heritage and create their own stories. No public party campaigning or DEI affiliation is on record.