Jay Laga’aia is a New Zealand–born Australian actor, musician, and presenter whose career spans film, television, stage, and music. International audiences know him best for his portrayal of Captain Typho in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones and Episode III – Revenge of the Sith. In Australia and New Zealand, he has built a celebrated career across drama, children’s entertainment, live performance, and event hosting.

Jay’s extensive screen credits include major roles in Water Rats, Street Legal, and Home and Away, along with appearances in Xena: Warrior Princess, McLeod’s Daughters, and Celebrity Big Brother. He is beloved by families nationwide for his long-running work on Play School, Jay’s Jungle, and Surprise Surprise.

A versatile stage performer, Jay has appeared in landmark productions including The Lion King, Jesus Christ Superstar, and the Australia–New Zealand tour of Wicked, in which he played The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. As a recording artist, he has released a series of acclaimed children’s albums, along with Christmas and nursery rhyme collections, and has performed at Carols by Candlelight.

Jay is also a highly experienced MC, having hosted major events for the City of Sydney, the Queensland Department of Premier and Cabinet, the Sydney Royal Easter Show, and the Powerhouse Museum. 

One of six siblings and father to eight children, Jay brings warmth, authenticity, and a deep commitment to community to every stage he steps onto.

He has set sail as The Pirate King in The Pirates of Penzance, now playing the Foundry Theatre in Sydney.

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