Michael Eric Hurst, (ONZM) (born September 20, 1957 in Lancashire, England) is a New Zealand actor, director and writer, mostly on stage and television. He is probably best known internationally for playing Iolaus in the television programs Hercules: The Legendary Journeys and companion series Xena: Warrior Princess.
Hurst is the oldest of three brothers. When he was seven his family moved to Christchurch, New Zealand. He enrolled at Papanui High School, then University of Canterbury, but for only one year.
He married New Zealand actress Jennifer Ward-Lealand in 1988. They have two sons: Jack Louis Ward Hurst, born in 1997, and Cameron Lane Ward Hurst, born in 1999.
In 2003, Hurst received the Laureate Award from the Arts Foundation of New Zealand. He was later designated an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2005 "for services to film and the theatre".
Attended Papanui High School (years F3-F7)
Attended University of Canterbury for 1 year
Family moved to Christchurch, New Zealand when he was 7
Married to noted New Zealand actress Jennifer Ward-Lealand since 1988.
Son, Jack Louis Ward Hurst born January 25, 1997; son, Cameron Lane Ward Hurst born December 2, 1999
The eldest of three brothers
Recipient of 2003 Laureate Award from the Arts Foundation of New Zealand.
Appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit "for service to film and the theatre" in 2005
Named "Best New Zealand Actor" in 2005 Metro magazine reader's poll.
