Ryan Hurst is a name that resonates with fans of gritty television drama and powerful character portrayals. Known for his unforgettable role as Opie Winston in Sons of Anarchy, Hurst has carved out a unique space in Hollywood with his towering presence and emotionally rich performances.

Quick Bio

Early Life and Background

Born on June 19, 1976, in Santa Monica, California, Ryan Hurst was destined for the spotlight. His father, Rick Hurst, was a well-known actor famous for his role in The Dukes of Hazzard, while his mother, Candace Kaniecki, worked as an acting coach. Growing up in a household steeped in the entertainment industry, Hurst was exposed to the craft of acting from an early age, which laid the foundation for his future success.

Education and Upbringing

Hurst attended Santa Monica High School, where he began to explore his interest in performance. With both parents deeply involved in the arts, he received not only formal education but also informal training at home. His mother’s coaching and his father’s experience gave him a unique edge, helping him develop a nuanced understanding of character work and storytelling.

Career Beginnings

Ryan Hurst began his acting career in the early 1990s with appearances in television shows like Saved by the Bell: The New Class. His breakout moment came in Saving Private Ryan (1998), where he played a paratrooper named Michaelson. Though a minor role, it showcased his ability to bring authenticity and depth to even brief screen time.

Rise to Fame

Hurst’s career took a major leap with his role as Gerry Bertier in Remember the Titans (2000), a film that remains a fan favorite. However, it was his portrayal of Opie Winston in Sons of Anarchy (2008–2012) that truly cemented his status as a household name. His performance was raw, emotional, and deeply resonant, earning him a Satellite Award and a loyal fanbase.

Notable Roles and Projects

Beyond Sons of Anarchy, Ryan Hurst has appeared in a wide range of films and series. His credits include We Were Soldiers, The Ladykillers, and Medium. He starred in Outsiders as Lil Foster Farrell, and played Beta, a terrifying antagonist, in The Walking Dead. Each role demonstrated his versatility, from soldier to supernatural villain.

Voice Acting and Video Game Work

Hurst’s talents extend into voice acting, most notably in Rango and God of War Ragnarök, where he voiced and performed motion capture for Thor. His portrayal of the Norse god was so compelling that it earned him a BAFTA Award nomination. His deep voice and commanding presence make him a natural fit for animated and video game characters.

Age and Physical Appearance

As of 2025, Ryan Hurst is 49 years old. Standing at an impressive 6 ft 5 in, he has an athletic build, blue eyes, and salt-and-pepper hair. His rugged appearance and towering frame have made him a go-to actor for roles that require physicality and intensity. Whether playing a biker or a god, his look adds gravitas to every performance.

Personal Life and Relationships

Hurst has been married to Molly Cookson since 2005. The couple met in 1994 and have been inseparable ever since. Together, they founded Fast Shoes, a production company that reflects their shared passion for storytelling. While they keep their personal life relatively private, their partnership is a testament to enduring love in Hollywood.

Spiritual Journey and Beliefs

In a surprising and inspiring turn, Ryan Hurst adopted Sikhism and took on the spiritual name Gobind Seva Singh. His spiritual journey reflects a deep introspection and commitment to personal growth. He has spoken about how his beliefs influence his life and work, bringing a sense of peace and purpose to his career.

Awards and Recognition

Hurst’s portrayal of Opie Winston earned him a Satellite Award for Best Supporting Actor in 2011. His work has been consistently praised for its emotional depth and authenticity. From television to video games, his performances have garnered critical acclaim and fan admiration across multiple platforms.

Current Projects and Future Plans

In December 2024, Hurst was announced as part of the cast for Out Come The Wolves, an independent drama inspired by the 1995 Rancid album. He continues to explore diverse roles in drama, action, and voice work, proving that his range as an actor is far from exhausted.

Conclusion

Ryan Hurst is more than just a talented actor—he’s a storyteller, a spiritual seeker, and a Hollywood veteran with a career that spans decades. From his early days in Saved by the Bell to his iconic role in Sons of Anarchy and beyond, Hurst has consistently delivered performances that resonate with audiences. His journey reflects not only professional success but also personal evolution, making him one of the most compelling figures in American entertainment today.

FAQs

How old is Ryan Hurst?
Ryan Hurst was born on June 19, 1976, making him 49 years old as of 2025. He was born in Santa Monica, California.

What was Ryan Hurst’s breakout role?
His breakout role was Gerry Bertier in Remember the Titans (2000), but he gained major fame as Opie Winston in Sons of Anarchy.

Is Ryan Hurst married?
Yes, Ryan Hurst has been married to Molly Cookson since 2005. They met in 1994 and co-founded the production company Fast Shoes.

What religion does Ryan Hurst follow?
Ryan Hurst practices Sikhism and goes by the spiritual name Gobind Seva Singh. His beliefs reflect his introspective nature.

What video game character did Ryan Hurst voice?
He voiced Thor in God of War Ragnarök, earning critical acclaim and a BAFTA Award nomination for his performance.

What is Ryan Hurst’s height?
Ryan Hurst stands at an impressive 6 ft 5 in (195.5 cm), contributing to his commanding screen presence.

What are some of Ryan Hurst’s notable TV roles?
He starred in Sons of Anarchy, The Walking Dead as Beta, and Outsiders as Lil Foster Farrell.

How did Ryan Hurst start his acting career?
He began with TV roles in the early ’90s, including Saved by the Bell: The New Class, before moving into film with Saving Private Ryan.

Has Ryan Hurst won any awards?
Yes, he won a Satellite Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Sons of Anarchy in 2011.

What is Ryan Hurst working on now?
He was recently cast in Out Come The Wolves, an indie drama inspired by the 1995 Rancid album, continuing his diverse acting journey.

For More Updates Visit: Biomagazine