Craig Newkirk

Craig Newkirk is a native of Wrightsville Beach, NC and has been working in Film, Television and Print for over 30 years. Born to world renowned architect Haywood Newkirk and thespian LaNelle Newkirk Clontz. While his first exposure to theater came from his mother, LaNelle Clontz, an award winning actress and President of the Thalian Hall Association (the oldest running theater in the nation) Craig's earliest passion was actually surfing, spending his early life chasing waves and competing at the championship level. It wasn't until Craig's return to North Carolina that he would become fully enamored with theater and film, his first acting opportunity presenting itself in the form of 1986's "King Kong Lives" where as an extra he attempted to not get squished by the giant ape. From there he began working his way up the ladder from local radio, commercials and student films on up to major motion pictures, TV dramas and streaming content, including his more recent speaking roles in House of Cards and upcoming featured performances in several indie films. Craig's just as dedicated behind the scenes as he is in front of the camera. He's chiefly worked as Animal Wrangler on numerous films including the 2006 crime drama Idlewild. In Craig's own words "I just have a passion for film so I don't really care about the money as much as I just enjoy the process" featuring a rare dedication to acting craft, hard work and and a pure appreciation for the art of film. Craig is a 3rd Degree Black Belt and certified instructor with a National Sparring Championship in Soo Bahk Do Karate in 2005. He continues to hit the water, competing in the Eastern Surfing Association and earning numerous Surfing titles in his lifetime. He also Officiated, Coached and Played Ice Hockey for over 10 years as well as lettering in Golf, Basketball and Soccer in High School. Craig is the proud father of three Taylor, Samantha (both of whom were also bitten by the visual arts and film bugs) and Liam, and is the grandfather of Hunter and Sadie.