Summary
Kerry Fox is a renowned New Zealand actress best known for her emotionally powerful performances in films like An Angel at My Table and Intimacy. Born on July 30, 1966, in Lower Hutt, New Zealand, she is currently 58 years old and stands at 5 feet 6 inches. Fox began her acting journey at Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School, eventually gaining international fame for her role as author Janet Frame.
You might know Kerry Fox from her unforgettable performance in An Angel at My Table, but there’s so much more to this incredibly talented actress. Over the years, she’s quietly built a career full of depth, passion, and powerhouse performances—across both indie gems and critically acclaimed TV dramas.
But who is Kerry Fox beyond the screen? What shaped her into the fearless performer we see today? And how has she balanced her personal life with such a dynamic career?
In this article, we’ll walk through the life and achievements of Kerry Fox in a way that feels like a friendly conversation—easy to read, interesting, and full of stories. Let’s peel back the curtain and step into her world.
Early Life and Childhood
Kerry Fox was born on July 30, 1966, in Lower Hutt, New Zealand, a suburb of Wellington. She grew up in a lively, creative household, surrounded by books, music, and conversation. While other kids dreamt of becoming astronauts or doctors, Kerry found herself drawn to stories and characters.
Her early years were full of small performances, school plays, and an insatiable curiosity about human behavior—a clue that acting would soon call her name.
Kerry Fox’s Age and Height
As of 2025, Kerry Fox is 58 years old. She continues to age gracefully, taking on roles that embrace her maturity and wisdom rather than shy away from it.
She stands at around 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters), a modest height that doesn’t capture the sheer presence she brings to every role she plays. When Kerry walks into a scene, you feel it—like a gust of wind sweeping through still air.
Family Background and Influences
Fox’s parents were both supportive and artistic in spirit. Her father was a teacher, and her mother worked in healthcare, instilling in Kerry a balance of intellect and empathy. She has often credited her family’s openness and encouragement for helping her become a confident and daring performer.
It’s no wonder she grew up unafraid to tackle roles others might have avoided. She learned early on to trust her instincts.
First Steps into Acting
Kerry studied at Toi Whakaari, the New Zealand Drama School, where her passion for acting deepened. There, she trained rigorously, learning the craft from the ground up. Think of it as the gym for actors—where every expression, movement, and pause was honed with care.
She landed her first professional roles soon after, quickly gaining attention for her naturalistic style and emotional depth.
Breakthrough Role: An Angel at My Table
Her big break came in 1990, when she starred as author Janet Frame in An Angel at My Table, directed by Jane Campion. The film was a massive critical success, winning awards and catapulting Kerry to international acclaim.
Fox’s portrayal was raw, moving, and deeply human. She didn’t just play Janet Frame—she became her. This performance still stands as one of the most acclaimed in New Zealand film history.
Daring Choices and International Spotlight
After her breakthrough, Kerry didn’t choose the safe path. Instead, she took bold roles in films like Intimacy (2001), where she famously performed unsimulated sex scenes. That decision shocked many, but Kerry defended it as an honest artistic choice.
In doing so, she showed the world that she was fearless—more concerned with truth than taboos. Her career blossomed internationally, with work spanning New Zealand, Australia, the UK, and Europe.
Filmography Highlights
Over the decades, Kerry Fox has delivered powerful performances across genres. Some of her best-known films include:
- Welcome to Sarajevo (1997) – a harrowing war drama
- Intimacy (2001) – controversial but award-winning
- Shallow Grave (1994) – alongside Ewan McGregor
- Bright Star (2009) – reuniting with Jane Campion
- Burning Man (2011) – an emotionally raw role as a grieving mother
Each of these films showcases her versatility and emotional range.
TV Shows and Appearances
Kerry’s talent isn’t limited to the big screen. She’s had strong roles in acclaimed TV series, such as:
- The Crimson Petal and the White
- Silent Witness
- The Salisbury Poisonings
- Back to Life
Her TV roles often bring a quiet power—less showy, more layered. She knows how to hold a camera’s gaze and keep viewers hooked.
Theatre Work and Stage Presence
A true thespian at heart, Kerry has also made her mark on the stage. She’s performed in major productions at the Royal Court Theatre and National Theatre in London.
Her theatre work often explores deep emotional territory. Watching her on stage is like witnessing an emotional tightrope walk—graceful, risky, and completely captivating.
Personal Life and Marriage
Kerry is married to Alexander Linklater, a writer and journalist. The couple lives in London and shares a son together. Despite her fame, Kerry values a low-key personal life, often staying out of the celebrity spotlight.
She’s spoken in interviews about the importance of balance—between career, motherhood, and personal growth. For her, family always comes first.
Awards and Nominations
Kerry Fox has been honored with numerous awards and nominations, including:
- Silver Bear for Best Actress (Intimacy, 2001) at Berlin Film Festival
- New Zealand Film and Television Awards
- AACTA (Australian Academy) nominations
Her talent hasn’t gone unnoticed. She’s respected not only for her acting but also for her integrity and choices.
Net Worth and Income Sources
Kerry Fox’s estimated net worth is around $3–5 million. While she isn’t a blockbuster star, she’s carved out a meaningful and lucrative career in independent cinema, theatre, and TV.
Her income stems from:
- Film and TV acting
- Theatre performances
- Occasional voice work and narration
More than money, she values creative freedom and artistic satisfaction.
Advocacy and Creative Freedom
Kerry is a firm believer in artistic expression without limits. She has often advocated for the role of women in film—not just in front of the camera but behind it too. She supports projects that challenge the status quo and reflect complex human stories.
She’s also passionate about mental health, often citing how storytelling can help us better understand ourselves and others.
Kerry Fox’s Legacy in Film and Television
Kerry Fox may not be a household name everywhere, but within the film and theatre world, she’s regarded as a master of her craft. She’s the kind of actor that other actors admire—a performer’s performer.
Her legacy lies in her willingness to explore uncomfortable truths and to tell stories that matter.
Interesting Facts About Kerry Fox
- She turned down Hollywood blockbusters in favor of indie films.
- Her role in Intimacy made headlines worldwide.
- She enjoys gardening and meditation in her free time.
- Kerry rarely uses social media—she prefers real-life connections.
- She’s worked with Oscar-winning directors including Jane Campion and Michael Winterbottom.
Conclusion
Kerry Fox is living proof that you don’t need fame to be extraordinary. Her career is a masterclass in courage, authenticity, and purpose. She’s not just an actress—she’s a storyteller who dives headfirst into her roles, no matter how challenging.
Whether on screen or stage, Kerry continues to inspire audiences and peers alike with her bold choices and emotional honesty. In a world obsessed with surface-level fame, she reminds us of the power of depth and sincerity.
Also Read : Cameron Diaz – Age, Height, Family, Career, TV Shows, Awards, Net Worth
FAQs
1. What is Kerry Fox best known for?
Kerry Fox is best known for her role as Janet Frame in An Angel at My Table and her fearless performance in Intimacy.
2. Where is Kerry Fox from?
She was born and raised in Lower Hutt, New Zealand, and later moved to the UK to expand her acting career.
3. Is Kerry Fox married?
Yes, she is married to writer Alexander Linklater, and the couple has a son.
4. Has Kerry Fox won any major awards?
Yes, she won the Silver Bear for Best Actress at the Berlin Film Festival for Intimacy and has several other international accolades.
5. What is Kerry Fox’s net worth in 2025?
Her estimated net worth ranges between $3–5 million, earned from her film, theatre, and television work.
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