Essie Davis is not just a talented Australian actress. She is a global star whose work in film, television, and theatre has earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. From her early days in Tasmania to her rise in Hollywood and regional entertainment, Essie’s journey is inspiring and full of artistic brilliance.
In this blog post, we explore her life, career, achievements, and some lesser-known facts. Whether you are a fan of American film actors, interested in celebrity profiles, or just love great storytelling, this post will give you everything you need to know about Essie Davis.
Early Life and Upbringing
Essie Davis was born as Esther Davis on 19 January 1970 in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. She grew up in a large family with six siblings, raised by her parents George Davis, an artist, and Mary Davis, a homemaker.
Her childhood was filled with creativity. Her family was part of the Australian Green movement, and they lived a self-sufficient lifestyle. Essie made her stage debut at the age of five at Hobart’s Theatre Royal, playing a moonbeam. That moment sparked her love for acting.
Essie attended Clarence High School and Rosny College. She later studied at the University of Tasmania, where she joined the Old Nick Company, a student theatre group. Her passion led her to the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in Sydney, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting.
Personal Life – Age, Zodiac Sign
Personal Details | Information |
---|---|
Full Name | Esther Davis |
Nickname | Essie |
Alternative Names(s) | Essie Davies |
Date of Birth | 19 Jan 1970 |
Age (as of 2024) | 54 years |
Religion | Catholicism |
Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
Nationality | Australian |
Birthplace | Hobart, Tasmania |
Hometown | Hobart |
Current Address | Not public |
Education Qualification | BFA, NIDA |
Hobbies and Interests | Acting, Theatre, Singing |
Languages Known | English |
Social Media Profiles link | Facebook , Instagram |
Wikipedia Profile link | Essie Davis – Wikipedia |
IMDb Profile link | Essie Davis – IMDb |
Website link | N/A |
Physical Appearance – Height, Weight, Body Measurements
Physical Details | Information |
---|---|
Body Type | Slim |
Body Measurements | 34-25-35 |
Height in feet, inches, cm | 5’6″, 168 cm |
Weight in lbs, kg | 116 lbs, 53 kg |
Chest | 34 inches |
Waist | 25 inches |
Biceps | N/A |
Eye Colour | Blue |
Hair Colour | Blonde |
Hairstyle | Shoulder-length |
Distinctive Features | Expressive eyes |
Tattoos | N/A |
Family and Relationships – Boyfriend/Husband, Affairs
Essie Davis is married to Justin Kurzel, a well-known Australian director. They tied the knot in 2002 and have two daughters, Stella and Ruby Kurzel. The couple often collaborates professionally, including on films like True History of the Kelly Gang.
Essie values her privacy. She rarely discusses her personal relationships in media interviews. Her family life remains grounded, away from the spotlight.
- Spouse: Justin Kurzel
- Children: Stella Kurzel, Ruby Kurzel
- Parents: George and Mary Davis
- Siblings: Six brothers
Relationships Details | Information |
---|---|
Marital Status | Married |
Spouse – Husband | Justin Kurzel |
Father | George Davis |
Mother | Mary Davis |
Children | Stella Kurzel, Ruby Kurzel |
Siblings | Six brothers |
Affairs – Boyfriend(s) | Justin Kurzel |
Significant Relationships | Justin Kurzel |
Rise to Stardom
Essie made her film debut in 1993 with The Custodian. She quickly gained recognition for her roles in Dad and Dave: On Our Selection and Blackrock. Her breakthrough came with The Matrix Reloaded in 2003, where she played Maggie.
She became a household name with her role as Phryne Fisher in Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries. Her performance in The Babadook (2014) earned global praise and cemented her place in Hollywood and international cinema.

Essie Davis – Selfie

Essie Davis – Debut Film – The Custodian
Essie Davis – Successful Film – The Babadook
Career, Awards, and Achievements
Essie Davis has worked across TV, film, and theatre. She has played diverse roles, from horror to historical drama. Her talent has earned her several awards and nominations.
- Laurence Olivier Award – Best Supporting Actress (A Streetcar Named Desire, 2003)
- Tony Award Nomination – Jumpers on Broadway
- FCCA Award – Best Actress (The Babadook)
- Chainsaw Award – Best Actress (The Babadook)
She has also starred in Game of Thrones, playing Lady Crane, and in Lambs of God as Sister Iphigenia.
Career Details | Information |
---|---|
Profession(s) | Actress |
Debut Film | The Custodian (1993) |
Notable Roles | Phryne Fisher, Amelia Vanek, Lady Crane |
Recent Films – New Movies | Exposure, Faraway Downs, Justice of Bunny King |
Upcoming Films | Alien: Earth, One Day, Apple Cider Vinegar |
Popular Television Series | Miss Fisher, Game of Thrones, Lambs of God |
Awards and Achievements | Olivier Award, FCCA Award, Chainsaw Award |
Endorsements/Brand Collaborations | N/A |
Philanthropy/Charity Work | Tasmanian Theatre Company |
Professional Associations | NIDA Alumni |
Training and Education | BFA, NIDA |
Production Company | N/A |
Box Office Success – Hit Movies | Matrix Reloaded, Charlotte’s Web, Australia |
Critical Acclaim Movies | The Babadook, Nitram, Babyteeth |
Assets and Finances – Net Worth
Financial Profile | Information |
---|---|
Net Worth in Dollars | $5 million |
Per Movie Charges in Dollars | N/A |
Per Endorsement Charges in Dollars | N/A |
Sponsorship Deals | N/A |
Business Ventures | N/A |
Investments | Real estate |
Real Estate Holdings | Hobart property |
Luxury Items/Properties Owned | Private estate |
Cars Collection | Vintage Police Car |
Favorite Things, Likes and Dislikes
Favorite Things | Information |
---|---|
Favorite Actor | Judy Davis |
Favorite Actress | Glenn Close |
Favorite Film | The Babadook |
Favorite Music Bands | The Passion by Jeanette Winterson |
Favorite Sport | football |
Favorite Books | N/A |
Favorite Colour | black |
Favorite Food | N/A |
Things s/he like | Diverse roles, Theatre, Privacy |
Things s/he dislike | Repetition, Fame pressure |
Top 5 Best Films – Essie Davis
Film Name | Year of Release | Character Played |
---|---|---|
The Babadook | 2014 | Amelia Vanek |
Miss Fisher & the Crypt of Tears | 2020 | Phryne Fisher |
The Matrix Reloaded | 2003 | Maggie |
True History of the Kelly Gang | 2019 | Ellen Kelly |
Girl with a Pearl Earring | 2003 | Catharina Vermeer |
Controversies – Essie Davis
- Criticism over Miss Fisher’s portrayal of feminism.
- Debate around The Babadook’s psychological themes.
- Rumors of tension during Game of Thrones filming.
- Speculation about her role in Alien: Earth.
- Privacy concerns raised during press tours.
Interesting Facts – Essie Davis
- She won an Olivier Award for a stage role opposite Glenn Close.
- Essie played Juliet in Romeo and Juliet for Bell Shakespeare.
- She starred in Australia with Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman.
- Her daughters appeared in The Babadook as extras.
- She is a trained singer and has performed in musicals.
- Essie supports Tasmanian Theatre Company and local arts.

Essie Davis is more than just an actress. She is a talented model, a dedicated mother, and a respected celebrity in the entertainment world. Her journey from Tasmania to global fame is a story of passion, hard work, and artistic excellence.