Nikolaj Coster-Waldau is a Danish actor, producer, and screenwriter who gained global recognition for his role as Jaime Lannister in the critically acclaimed HBO series Game of Thrones (2011–2019). Renowned for his versatility, Nikolaj has seamlessly transitioned between various genres in film and television, earning accolades for his compelling performances. Beyond acting, he is celebrated for his humanitarian efforts, advocating for climate action and sustainable living.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Nikolaj William Coster-Waldau |
| Birth Date | July 27, 1970 |
| Birth Place | Rudkøbing, Denmark |
| Age | 54 years old (as of 2024) |
| Zodiac Sign | Leo |
| Father’s Name | Jørgen Oscar Fritzer Waldau |
| Father’s Occupation | Librarian |
| Mother’s Name | Hanne Søborg Coster |
| Mother’s Occupation | Teacher |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 192 lbs (87 kg) |
| Spouse | Nukâka Coster-Waldau (married 1998) |
| Children | 2 (Filippa and Safina) |
| Residence | Copenhagen, Denmark |
| Net Worth | Estimated $16 million |
| Wikipedia Page | Nikolaj Coster-Waldau Wikipedia |
Early Life and Childhood
Nikolaj Coster-Waldau was born on July 27, 1970, in Rudkøbing, Denmark, and grew up in a small village in Southern Zealand. His father, Jørgen Oscar Fritzer Waldau, was a librarian, and his mother, Hanne Søborg Coster, worked as a teacher. Despite a modest upbringing, Nikolaj developed a strong sense of creativity and ambition early in life.
His childhood was marked by challenges, including his parents’ divorce when he was young. Raised primarily by his mother, Nikolaj often credits her resilience and support for shaping his determination and work ethic. He has two older sisters, Dorte and Rikke, who also influenced his upbringing by fostering a sense of community and creativity in their household.
Career
Early Career
Nikolaj Coster-Waldau’s journey into acting began at the Danish National School of Performing Arts in Copenhagen, where he graduated in 1993. His breakout role came shortly after in the Danish film Nightwatch (1994), where he played a law student embroiled in a chilling mystery. The success of the film launched his career in Denmark and established him as a rising star in European cinema.
International Breakthrough
Nikolaj’s international career took off in the early 2000s with roles in Hollywood films such as Black Hawk Down (2001), directed by Ridley Scott. He later starred in Kingdom of Heaven (2005) and Firewall (2006), showcasing his ability to adapt to a wide range of roles. His performances were lauded for their intensity and depth, marking him as a versatile actor capable of tackling complex characters.
Game of Thrones and Global Stardom
In 2011, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau was cast as Jaime Lannister in HBO’s epic fantasy series Game of Thrones. His portrayal of the morally complex Kingslayer earned him critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including a Primetime Emmy nomination. Jaime’s character arc, from an arrogant knight to a man seeking redemption, remains one of the most compelling in television history.
The role catapulted Nikolaj to global fame, making him a household name and solidifying his status as a leading actor in Hollywood and beyond.
Recent Work
Following the conclusion of Game of Thrones, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau has remained active in the entertainment industry with a variety of projects. In 2023, he appeared in the critically acclaimed series An Optimist’s Guide to the Planet, a documentary series where Nikolaj explored environmental solutions and fostered hope amidst climate challenges. The series was praised for its uplifting approach to global issues.
In 2024, he took on the lead role in Eclipse Point, a sci-fi drama exploring humanity’s survival in the face of catastrophic events. The film, combining stunning visuals with a profound narrative, garnered attention at major film festivals. That same year, he starred in My Fathers’ Daughter, a coming-of-age comedy-drama about a Sámi teenager uncovering her parentage. His performance brought emotional depth to the story.
Additionally, Nikolaj was announced as the star of King and Conqueror (2025), a historical drama that delves into the life of William the Conqueror, set to air on BBC One and CBS. These recent projects showcase Nikolaj’s versatility and his dedication to impactful and meaningful storytelling.
Personal Life
Marriage and Family
Nikolaj Coster-Waldau married Greenlandic actress and singer Nukâka Coster-Waldau in 1998. The couple shares a strong bond and often supports each other’s creative endeavors. They have two daughters, Filippa and Safina, who occasionally join their parents on film sets and public events.
Residence
The family resides in Copenhagen, Denmark, in a beautiful home that blends traditional Nordic architecture with modern design. Nikolaj frequently expresses his love for his homeland and its emphasis on sustainability and quality of life.
Hobbies and Interests
Nikolaj is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys hiking, skiing, and spending time in nature. He is also passionate about climate advocacy and serves as a United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Goodwill Ambassador, focusing on sustainability and climate action.
Net Worth
With a successful career spanning decades, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau’s net worth is estimated at $16 million. His earnings primarily stem from his roles in blockbuster films and Game of Thrones, where he reportedly earned up to $1 million per episode in the final seasons. His production ventures and endorsements have further contributed to his financial success.
Social Media Presence
Nikolaj Coster-Waldau maintains a relatively low profile on social media. While he previously shared insights into his professional and advocacy work, he has become less active on platforms like Instagram, focusing instead on his career, family, and humanitarian efforts. Fans admire his grounded approach, prioritizing meaningful engagement over frequent online activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Nikolaj Coster-Waldau’s full name?
Nikolaj’s full name is Nikolaj William Coster-Waldau.
2. How old is Nikolaj Coster-Waldau?
As of 2024, he is 54 years old.
3. Where was Nikolaj Coster-Waldau born?
He was born in Rudkøbing, Denmark.
4. What is Nikolaj Coster-Waldau’s most famous role?
His most famous role is Jaime Lannister in HBO’s Game of Thrones.
5. Is Nikolaj Coster-Waldau married?
Yes, he is married to Nukâka Coster-Waldau.
6. How many children does Nikolaj Coster-Waldau have?
He has two daughters, Filippa and Safina.
7. What is Nikolaj Coster-Waldau’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated at $16 million.
8. What causes does Nikolaj Coster-Waldau support?
He advocates for climate action and sustainability as a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador.
9. What is Nikolaj Coster-Waldau’s height and weight?
He is 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighs approximately 192 lbs.
10. Does Nikolaj Coster-Waldau have a Wikipedia page?
Yes, his official Wikipedia page can be found here.
In a Nutshell
Nikolaj Coster-Waldau’s journey from a small Danish village to international stardom is a testament to his talent, resilience, and dedication. His iconic role as Jaime Lannister in Game of Thrones solidified his place in television history, while his humanitarian efforts underscore his commitment to making a positive impact. With a thriving career, a loving family, and a passion for sustainability, Nikolaj continues to inspire audiences worldwide.
