Viggo Peter Mortensen Jr. (b.1958) is an American actor, poet, author, and visual artist known for his versatility and depth in film roles. He is best known for his portrayal of Aragorn in Peter Jackson’s epic The Lord of the Rings trilogy, which solidified his status as one of the most compelling actors of his generation.
Born in Watertown, New York, Mortensen was raised in a multicultural environment, living in Argentina, Denmark, and the United States. He attended St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York, where he studied Spanish and politics, developing a deep interest in literature, art, and languages. His early career included minor film and television roles before he gained widespread recognition for his performances in films such as G.I. Jane (1997) and The Portrait of a Lady (1996.)
Mortensen’s breakthrough came with The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001,) in which he played the heroic and complex character of Aragorn. His performance, along with the trilogy’s critical and commercial success, earned him worldwide acclaim. He went on to star in other notable films such as A History of Violence (2005) and Eastern Promises (2007,) both of which showcased his range and earned him Academy Award nominations.
Mortensen is also a published poet and author, with works such as The Horse is Good (1992,) a collection of poetry and photography. He is a passionate visual artist, frequently showcasing his paintings and photography in galleries.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Viggo Mortensen
Fate leads those who are willing. The unwilling it drags.
—Viggo Mortensen
There’s no excuse to be bored. Sad, yes. Angry, yes. Depressed, yes. Crazy, yes. But there’s no excuse for boredom, ever.
—Viggo Mortensen
Topics: Boredom
You don’t have to make something that people call art. Living is an artistic activity, there is an art to getting through the day.
—Viggo Mortensen
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