Ryan Hurst: A Versatile Actor’s Journey from Sons of Anarchy to The Odyssey
Santa Monica, January 14, 2026 – Ryan Douglas Hurst, born June 19, 1976, is an American actor renowned for his roles in films like Remember the Titans and TV series such as Sons of Anarchy. With a career spanning over three decades, Hurst has transitioned from early supporting roles to prominent characters in blockbuster projects, including upcoming films like The Odyssey.
Early Life and Background
Hurst was born in Santa Monica, California, to actor Rick Hurst, known for his role as Deputy Cletus Hogg in The Dukes of Hazzard, and Candace Kaniecki, an acting coach who founded the Candace Kaniecki Acting School. He attended Santa Monica High School and grew up in a Hollywood family, which influenced his early start in show business. Hurst made his television debut in 1993 on Saved by the Bell: The New Class, portraying Crunch Grabowski.
Career Highlights
Hurst’s film career began with roles in Saving Private Ryan (1998) as Paratrooper Michaelson and Remember the Titans (2000) as Gerry Bertier. He gained fame as Opie Winston in Sons of Anarchy (2008–2012), earning a Satellite Award for Best Supporting Actor. Other notable roles include Beta in The Walking Dead (2019–2020) and voicing Thor in God of War Ragnarök (2022), which garnered a BAFTA nomination. Upcoming projects include The Odyssey (2026) and And Out Comes the Wolf (2025). Hurst also founded the production company Fast Shoes with his wife, Molly Cookson.
Key Facts and Filmography
| Year | Title/Role |
|---|---|
| 1998 | Saving Private Ryan (Paratrooper Michaelson) |
| 2000 | Remember the Titans (Gerry Bertier) |
| 2008–2012 | Sons of Anarchy (Opie Winston) |
| 2019–2020 | The Walking Dead (Beta) |
| 2022 | God of War Ragnarök (Thor, voice) |
| 2026 | The Odyssey (Post-production) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Ryan Hurst?
Ryan Hurst is 49 years old, born on June 19, 1976.
What is Ryan Hurst’s birth name?
His birth name is Ryan Douglas Hurst.
Where was Ryan Hurst born?
He was born in Santa Monica, California, USA.