Martin Henderson has become a household name with his charismatic portrayal of Jack Sheridan, the rugged yet tender bar owner in Netflix’s hit series Virgin River. A role that blends the charm of

a small-town hero with the complexities of a man who’s faced his demons, Henderson’s Jack is a character that millions have fallen for. But beyond the flannel shirts, piercing eyes,

and heartfelt expressions, there lies a man whose journey from a small town in New Zealand to the glitzy streets of Hollywood is as fascinating as the roles he has taken on.

From his early soap opera fame to the international success of Virgin River, here are five intriguing facts to help you get to know the man behind the beloved Jack Sheridan.

1. A Kiwi With Hollywood Roots: His Down Under Beginnings

Martin Henderson was born on October 8, 1974, in Auckland, New Zealand. From an early age, Henderson was drawn to the arts, and it didn’t take long before he became a standout in the local entertainment industry. His first big break came in the early 1990s when he landed the role of Stuart Neilson in the hit New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street. This role catapulted him to stardom in his home country and set the stage for his eventual migration to Australia and, later, Hollywood.

While New Zealand remains close to Henderson’s heart, it was clear that his ambition stretched far beyond his native shores. His decision to move to Australia was a strategic one, as he knew it would expose him to a broader acting market, eventually leading him to Hollywood. This ambitious leap speaks volumes about his desire to take risks and pursue his craft on the global stage.

When Henderson finally crossed the Pacific, it was to face an entirely new set of challenges. The path from Shortland Street to international fame wasn’t a straight line, but through it all, his dedication to his craft was evident. Little did fans know that the charming Kiwi who had captivated the people of New Zealand would soon be wooing audiences around the world with his undeniable charisma.

2. From Horror to Romance: A Diverse Filmography

While many recognize Martin Henderson for his role as Jack Sheridan in Virgin River, his career is anything but one-dimensional. His filmography spans multiple genres, from heart-pounding horror to lighthearted romance, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Perhaps most notably, Henderson starred in the 2002 horror film The Ring, opposite Naomi Watts. The film, a chilling remake of the Japanese horror hit Ringu, cemented Henderson’s place in Hollywood. As Noah Clay, the skeptical yet deeply affected journalist, Henderson gave a standout performance, contributing to the movie’s success and cult following. His portrayal of a character struggling to unravel the mysteries behind a cursed videotape earned him critical acclaim and caught the attention of both horror enthusiasts and mainstream audiences alike.

Following his horror success, Henderson ventured into romantic territory, proving that he could effortlessly transition between genres. In 2004, he starred in Bride & Prejudice, a Bollywood-inspired adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Playing the role of William Darcy, Henderson brought a modern yet still captivating spin on the classic romantic hero. The film was a fun and colorful exploration of cultural and romantic tensions, and Henderson’s chemistry with co-star Aishwarya Rai Bachchan brought the character of Darcy to life in new and exciting ways.

Henderson’s talent isn’t confined to romantic or horror genres alone. He showcased his action chops in films like Torque (2004) and his survival instincts in Everest (2015), further establishing his ability to take on varied and complex roles across multiple genres. Whether fighting for survival on a mountain or navigating dangerous twists in a thriller, Henderson’s adaptability and depth as an actor are unmistakable.

3. A Familiar Face in Grey’s Anatomy: His Seattle Chapter

Before Virgin River became the sensation it is today, Henderson made waves in the medical drama Grey’s Anatomy. His two-season run as Dr. Nathan Riggs, a heartthrob cardiothoracic surgeon, showcased his ability to bring both charm and emotional depth to a role. Riggs, who became a key love interest for Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo) after the departure of Derek “McDreamy” Shepherd, was a pivotal character in the show’s evolution during its later seasons.

Dr. Riggs’ complicated relationship with Meredith—marked by their undeniable chemistry, emotional scars, and shared traumas—brought Henderson into the spotlight once again. His time on Grey’s Anatomy gave viewers a glimpse of a different side of his acting prowess, as he was tasked with navigating the highly dramatic and intense world of Seattle Grace Hospital.

While his tenure on the show was relatively brief, his impact was long-lasting. Grey’s Anatomy fans still fondly remember Dr. Riggs and his relationship with Meredith, and Henderson’s time on the series undoubtedly helped solidify his status as a versatile leading man in television. Even though his storyline was cut short, the impression he left was one of genuine heart and lasting allure.

4. More Than an Actor: His Behind-the-Scenes Interests

While many actors are content with focusing solely on their on-screen performances, Martin Henderson has proven to be a man of many talents. In 2024, Henderson took a leap behind the camera, making his directorial debut with an episode of Virgin River.

This foray into directing allowed Henderson to put his creative vision into practice, offering a fresh perspective on the beloved series. As someone who has spent years on set, it was clear that Henderson had developed a deep understanding of Virgin River’s world, characters, and tone. By taking on the challenge of directing, he showcased his desire to shape the storytelling process beyond his own acting contributions.

Henderson’s interest in filmmaking is not surprising. His diverse career trajectory suggests an individual who is not only passionate about acting but also about the larger creative process that brings a project to life. With his directorial debut, Henderson has undoubtedly gained a greater appreciation for the intricacies of production, cementing his place as a multifaceted force in the entertainment industry.

5. A Dog Dad with a Big Heart: His Off-Screen Life

Off-screen, Martin Henderson leads a relatively private but deeply grounded life. Despite his Hollywood success, he remains remarkably humble and connected to his roots. One of the most endearing aspects of Henderson’s personal life is his devotion to his dog, Sammy. The fluffy, lovable pup has become a central part of his life, with Henderson regularly sharing adorable photos of the two together on social media.

Henderson’s affection for his dog mirrors the loyal and caring nature of his character, Jack Sheridan. Just as Jack is a steadfast protector and friend to those he loves, Henderson’s bond with Sammy showcases a man who values companionship, loyalty, and unconditional love. It’s this vulnerability and warmth that makes him even more relatable to his fans. While details about his romantic relationships are kept private, his love for Sammy is well-documented, and it’s clear that Henderson cherishes the simple, grounding aspects of life outside the Hollywood spotlight.

Conclusion: The Alluring Appeal of Martin Henderson

Martin Henderson has captured the hearts of millions through his portrayal of Jack Sheridan in Virgin River, but his talents and charisma extend far beyond this beloved role. From his early career in New Zealand to his varied roles in film and television, including his memorable turn on Grey’s Anatomy, Henderson has proven to be a versatile and compelling actor. His foray into directing and his down-to-earth personality off-screen reveal a man who is not only passionate about his craft but also deeply invested in the world around him. As we continue to follow Jack Sheridan’s journey in Virgin River, it’s clear that the man behind the character, Martin Henderson, is as intriguing and multifaceted as the roles he plays.