The Man Behind ‘Mummy’ Arnold Vosloo: What is he doing today?

Who is Arnold Vosloo?

Arnold is a South African actor, perhaps best known for his portrayal of Imhotep in the movies “The Mummy” and “The Mummy Returns”, in addition to numerous other roles he’s had in his career.

What is He Doing Today?

Arnold is still active, and in recent years has appeared in several films. He starred as Captain John Langerman in the film “Silverton Siege” (2022), while in 2023, he was Colonel Martin Bach in the film “Condor’s Nest”.

Wiki: Age, Childhood, and Education

Arnold Vosloo was born on 16 June 1962, in Pretoria, South Africa into an acting family, with both his parents being stage actors. His father also managed a drive-in theater in Alberton, Gauteng. Arnold Vosloo’s ethnic background is Afrikaner, tracing his ancestry to Dutch and German origins. He grew up with a sister, and after completing high school, he pursued his passion for acting by enrolling in drama courses at Technikon Pretoria. Although he served in the military, his time was cut short due to a medical discharge.

Career Beginnings

Arnold Vosloo’s acting career began in the vibrant world of South African theatre. He demonstrated talent and dedication, earning several prestigious Dalro Awards, for his outstanding performances in plays such as “Don Juan”, “Hamlet”, and “Môre is ‘n Lang Dag” (“Tomorrow is a Long Day”). His remarkable skills led him to become a regular presence at Pretoria’s State Theatre, where he further honed his craft.

Vosloo’s versatility was evident as he transitioned to film in 1984; once again, his performances garnered recognition, as he continued to receive Dalro Awards for his exceptional work. Notable films that showcased his talent include “Boetie gaan Border Toe” (“Boetie Goes to the Border”), “Circles in a Forest” (based on the book “Kringe in ‘n Bos” by Dalene Matthee), and the sequel “Boetie op Maneuvers” (“Boetie on maneuvers”).

Arnold’s filmography expanded to include international projects, such as in the German three-part “Morenga”, as well as films such as “Saturday Night at the Palace”, which explored the theme of racism in South Africa, “Skeleton Coast”, and “The Rutanga Tapes”. Through his diverse roles and recognition, Vosloo has left an indelible mark on both stage and screen.

Transition to American Films

Following his success in South African theater and film, Arnold Vosloo ventured into the American film industry, making his film debut in the movie “Gor” in 1987, alongside co-stars such as Urbano Barberini and Rebecca Ferratti.

The same year, Vosloo also appeared in “Steel Dawn” alongside co-stars Patrick Swayze and Lisa Niemi, in the post-apocalyptic action thriller in which he portrays Makker, a skilled fighter who aids the protagonist in his quest to protect a valuable water supply from a ruthless gang.

The following year, Vosloo starred in “Skeleton Coast” alongside co-star Ernest Borgnine. The film is an action-adventure set in Namibia and follows Vosloo’s character, known as ‘Blade,’ as he teams up with a treasure hunter.

Additionally, in 1988, Vosloo displayed his talent in “Act of Piracy”, appearing alongside co-stars Gary Busey and Belinda Bauer. The film revolves around a group of hijackers who take over a luxury cruise ship, and Vosloo plays the role of Sean Stevens, one of the passengers who become entangled in a dangerous situation.

In 1989, Arnold Vosloo starred as Saul Barnard in “Circles in a Forest”. The film, based on the novel “Kringe in ‘n Bos” by Dalene Matthee, tells the story of a woodcutter named Saul who lives in the Knysna Forest of South Africa during the 19th century.

Then in 1992, Arnold appeared in “1492: Conquest of Paradise” as Guevara, alongside renowned actor Gérard Depardieu. Directed by Ridley Scott, the film depicts the journey of Christopher Columbus and his exploration of the New World.

Rise to Prominence

Continuing his career, Arnold Vosloo made several notable appearances before securing the career-changing role of Imhotep in “The Mummy” (1999). In 1995, he portrayed Peyton Westlake/Darkman in “Darkman II: The Return of Durant”, taking over the role from Liam Neeson. The film released direct-to-video, follows the story of Peyton Westlake, a scientist who becomes the vigilante Darkman after a tragic accident. Vosloo reprised the role in “Darkman III: Die Darkman Die” (1996), further exploring the character’s journey and battles against villains.

In 1997, Vosloo appeared in “Zeus and Roxanne” alongside Steve Guttenberg. The family-friendly film tells the heartwarming story of a friendship between a dog named Zeus and a dolphin named Roxanne, with Vosloo portraying Claude Carver.

However, it was in 1999 that Arnold Vosloo achieved widespread recognition and critical acclaim for his portrayal of Imhotep in “The Mummy”. Directed by Stephen Sommers, the film also starred Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz. Set in 1920s Egypt, the story revolves around the resurrection of the ancient mummy Imhotep, who seeks to bring his lover back to life and unleash his wrath upon the world. Vosloo’s chilling performance as the vengeful and powerful Imhotep left a lasting impact on audiences, and established him as a prominent figure in the world of cinema.

Two years later, in 2001, Arnold Vosloo returned to reprise his iconic role as Imhotep in “The Mummy Returns”. Directed by Stephen Sommers, the film was a sequel to the successful 1999 film, and again, Vosloo brought the ancient Egyptian priest Imhotep to life alongside the same co-stars, following the story of adventurer Rick O’Connell, played by Fraser and his wife Evelyn, played by Weisz, as they face a new threat involving the resurrected Imhotep, who seeks to resurrect the fearsome Scorpion King and use his powers to conquer the world. As the O’Connell family embarks on a perilous journey, they must prevent Imhotep from achieving his nefarious goals and protect their son, who has a connection to ancient Egypt.

In 2002, Arnold Vosloo took on the role of General Anton Simeonov in the action film “Con Express”, then from 2003 to 2004, he played Vincent Siminou in the television series “Veritas: The Quest”. The show follows the adventures of a father, Solomon Zond, and his son, Nikko Zond, as they embark on a global quest to uncover hidden treasures and solve ancient mysteries.

From 2005 to 2006, Vosloo made a significant impact on the popular television series “24”, portraying Habib Marwan, a terrorist mastermind and one of the main antagonists in the show’s fourth season, spanning across 17 episodes of the critically acclaimed thriller-drama series.

In 2008, Vosloo starred in the title role in the television movie “Odysseus: Voyage to the Underworld”, which depicts the mythical journey of Odysseus as he faces various challenges and encounters creatures from Greek mythology in his quest to return home. Also in 2008, Arnold Vosloo starred as King Augustin, alongside Amy Acker and John Rhys-Davies in “Fire & Ice: The Dragon Chronicles”.

In 2009 and 2013, Vosloo portrayed Zartan in the action films “G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra” and its sequel “G.I. Joe: Retaliation”, which featured an ensemble that included Channing Tatum, Dwayne Johnson and Bruce Willis.

In 2013, Vosloo appeared in “Odd Thomas” alongside Anton Yelchin and Addison Timlin. The film follows the titular character, played by Yelchin, as he uses his ability to see and communicate with the dead to uncover a sinister plot.

In the television series “Cape Town” (2016), Vosloo co-starred with Trond Espen Seim and Boris Kodjoe, portraying Robin Van Rees in six episodes of the crime drama.

Vosloo joined the cast of the popular series “Bosch” in 2017, in which he played Rudy Tafero alongside Titus Welliver and Jamie Hector, appearing in nine episodes of the detective drama.

In 2019, Vosloo joined the cast of “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan” alongside John Krasinski and Wendell Pierce, portrayed Jost Van Der Byl in four episodes of the thrilling series.

Grateful to get to double the mighty Arnold Vosloo on Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan season 2 now streaming on Amazon Prime. Many thanks to Brad Martin for the opportunity. #stunts #jackryan #arnoldvosloo pic.twitter.com/tUTxC9Y4Wr

— Mike Estes (@MikeEstesStunts) November 1, 2019

Net Worth

According to authoritative sources, Arnold Vosloo’s net worth is estimated at over $4 million, as of mid-2023.

Personal Life, Marriage, Wife, Children

In 1988, Arnold became a naturalized US citizen after marrying Nancy Mulford, his co-star from the films “Act of Piracy” and “Skeleton Coast”. However, their union ended in divorce three years later.

On 16 October 1998, Vosloo entered into a second marriage with Silvia Ahí, a Mexican-American marketing director hailing from Southern California. Together, Vosloo and Ahí have become passionate spokespersons for the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), advocating for the protection and welfare of animals.

In a lighthearted note, Vosloo once shared in an interview that he often gets mistaken for American actor Billy Zane and playfully jokes about being “the guy in Titanic” when asked.

Appearance and Body Measurements

Arnold Vosloo is recognized for his shaved head, and he has green eyes. He stands at a height of 6ft 2ins (1.88m) while he weighs approximately 185lbs (85kgs). His vital statistics are unknown, but he has an athletic figure.