Joseph Jason Namakaeha Momoa, born on August 1, 1979, in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a U.S. actor, model, producer, and musician. Raised in Norwalk, Iowa, by his mother Coni following his parents’ split, Momoa’s lineage includes Native Hawaiian, German, Irish, and Pawnee ancestry. He completed his education at Norwalk High School and subsequently enrolled at the University of Hawaii.
Initial Career & Modeling Success
Momoa’s path commenced in modeling when notable designer Takeo Kobayashi discovered him, leading to him being awarded Hawaii’s Model of the Year. His success in modeling opened doors for his acting entry in Baywatch: Hawaii (1999–2001), where he portrayed Jason Ioane.
Acting Career & Prominent Roles
Following Baywatch, Momoa roamed the globe, during which he embraced Buddhism while in Tibet. He made his return to the screen with appearances in North Shore and Stargate Atlantis, portraying Ronon Dex and engaging in martial arts training.
His major breakthrough occurred with the character of Khal Drogo in HBO’s Game of Thrones. His audition included showcasing a traditional Māori haka, which greatly impressed the casting team. He then featured in Conan the Barbarian (2011) and proceeded to direct and co-write Road to Paloma (2014).
Hollywood Fame
Momoa solidified his reputation as a global celebrity through his portrayal of Aquaman in the DC Extended Universe, commencing with Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and advancing in Aquaman (2018) and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023). He has also been featured in Dune, Frontier, See, and Fast X, and is scheduled to play Lobo in Supergirl (2026) and Blanka in a Street Fighter remake.
Musical Pursuits & Activism
Momoa has a passion for music, playing bass, ukulele, and guitar. He established a band known as ÖOF TATATÁ in 2024 and performed in both the U.S. and New Zealand. He is also an ardent environmental advocate, particularly vocal about the conservation of Mauna Kea in Hawaii.
Personal Life
He started a relationship with actress Lisa Bonet in 2005. The pair welcomed two children, Lola and Nakoa-Wolf, and wed in 2017 before parting ways in 2022. He later entered into a relationship with actress Eiza González. In 2008, Momoa sustained serious injuries from a bar incident, resulting in a prominent scar on his face.
Net Worth
Despite encountering financial difficulties after Game of Thrones, Jason Momoa’s net worth is currently estimated to exceed $40 million. He received $3 million for his role in the initial Aquaman and $15 million for the sequel, alongside earnings from various other films, endorsements, and television appearances.
