From the shores of New Zealand to the glittering lights of Hollywood, Martin Henderson has spent more than three decades crafting a career marked by quiet brilliance,

emotional range, and global appeal. Best known today as Jack Sheridan in Netflix’s Virgin River, Henderson has long captivated audiences across continents and genres,

delivering performances that feel both raw and timeless. But Henderson’s road to stardom wasn’t built overnight. It’s a journey steeped in dedication, resilience,

and the kind of versatility that only a seasoned actor can offer. As Virgin River continues its reign as one of Netflix’s most beloved dramas, Henderson’s star has never burned brighter.

The Kiwi Beginning: A Teen Heartthrob is Born

Martin Henderson’s acting roots trace back to his home country of New Zealand. Born on October 8, 1974, in Auckland, he discovered his passion for acting at just 13. By 17, he had landed his breakout role as Stuart Neilson on Shortland Street, the country’s most iconic soap opera. Over three seasons, he quickly became a teen idol, charming viewers with his boy-next-door looks and earnest screen presence.

But Henderson wasn’t content with local fame. With ambition in his heart and Hollywood in his sights, he set his course for bigger shores.

Crossing Borders: From Aussie Dramas to American Dreams

Henderson took his first steps beyond New Zealand in Australia, appearing in shows like Echo Point and Home and Away, two long-running staples of Aussie television. Still, it was clear the actor wanted more than serial drama.

In 1997, Henderson moved to the United States, enrolling at the prestigious Neighborhood Playhouse in New York City. Balancing his acting studies with restaurant jobs to make ends meet, he immersed himself in the craft and patiently awaited his breakout moment.

That moment arrived in 2002 when he starred opposite Naomi Watts in The Ring, the American remake of the Japanese horror classic. Henderson’s portrayal of investigative journalist Noah Clay helped propel the film to box office success and cemented him as a rising star in Hollywood.

Rising Star: From Romance to Revolution

Post-The Ring, Henderson refused to be typecast. His next few roles showcased remarkable range: he revved up action fans in Torque (2004), took a Bollywood twist in Bride and Prejudice (2004) alongside Aishwarya Rai, and turned heads in critically acclaimed indie dramas like Little Fish (with Cate Blanchett) and Battle in Seattle, a political drama based on real events.

He moved seamlessly between blockbuster cinema and intimate stories, earning praise from critics and industry insiders for his ability to anchor both with authenticity and quiet intensity.

A TV Fixture: Grey’s Anatomy and Beyond

While Henderson’s film career thrived, television came calling again—this time, with prestige projects. In 2011, he starred in Shonda Rhimes’ Off the Map, and later appeared in Secrets & Lies, The Red Road, and Hellbent.

But it was Grey’s Anatomy that introduced Henderson to a whole new generation of viewers. From 2015 to 2017, he played Dr. Nathan Riggs, a love interest for Ellen Pompeo’s iconic Meredith Grey. Fans fell for his understated charm and emotional depth, though his character’s exit sparked strong reactions across social media. Still, the performance reaffirmed Henderson’s power as a romantic lead—and that wasn’t the last time he’d wear that crown.

Virgin River: The Netflix Era Begins

In 2019, Martin Henderson took on what would become his most defining role: Jack Sheridan in Virgin River. As the battle-scarred ex-Marine and owner of the town’s bar and grill, Jack is the emotional anchor of the series—steady, smoldering, and deeply complex.

Opposite Alexandra Breckenridge’s Mel Monroe, Henderson brings a grounded masculinity to Jack, mixing quiet strength with vulnerability. Their slow-burning romance has captivated millions around the world, helping Virgin River become a flagship drama for Netflix.