Jason Momoa: From Dothraki Warlord to DC Universe Powerhouse
LONDON, 21 January 2026 – Joseph Jason Namakaeha Momoa, the American actor whose formidable screen presence has defined roles from Khal Drogo to Aquaman, continues to be a dominant force in Hollywood. As he prepares for new ventures in the revitalised DC Universe and beyond, we look at the career of an actor who has seamlessly transitioned from television heartthrob to global blockbuster star and passionate creator.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Born in Honolulu, Hawaii on 1 August 1979, Momoa was raised in Norwalk, Iowa. His acting career began in 1999 with a role on Baywatch: Hawaii. He gained wider recognition for his portrayal of Ronon Dex in Stargate Atlantis (2005–2009). However, it was his visceral performance as the Dothraki warlord Khal Drogo in the first season of HBO’s Game of Thrones (2011) that catapulted him into the international spotlight, showcasing an intensity that would become his trademark.
Becoming a Blockbuster Icon
Momoa’s journey to superhero status began in 2016 with a cameo as Arthur Curry, Aquaman, in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. He reprised the role in Justice League before headlining the 2018 solo film Aquaman. Directed by James Wan, the film was a phenomenal success, grossing over $1.15 billion worldwide to become the highest-grossing film in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU).
The sequel, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, was released in December 2023. While critical reception was mixed, the film performed respectably at the global box office, concluding the original DCEU chapter. Beyond Atlantis, Momoa has showcased his range in major franchises, playing Duncan Idaho in Denis Villeneuve’s Dune (2021) and the villain Dante Reyes in Fast X (2023).
Key Career Milestones & Upcoming Projects
| Project | Role / Significance |
|---|---|
| Game of Thrones (2011–2012) | Breakthrough role as Khal Drogo. |
| Aquaman (2018) | Starring role; film grossed $1.15bn. |
| Chief of War (2025) | Starred as, co-created, and executive produced Apple TV+ historical drama. |
| Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow (2026) | Confirmed to play the anti-hero Lobo. |
| Street Fighter Reboot (TBA) | Confirmed for the role of Blanka. |
Beyond Acting: Music and Advocacy
Momoa’s passions extend far beyond the camera. A dedicated heavy metal fan and hobby musician, he formed the power trio ÖOF TATATÁ in 2024. In a memorable moment for fans, he hosted Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne’s farewell concert, “Back to the Beginning,” in Birmingham, England in July 2025, even joining the mosh pit during Pantera’s supporting set.
He is also a committed environmental advocate. In 2022, he was designated a UN Environment Programme Advocate for Life Below Water, campaigning vigorously against single-use plastic pollution through initiatives like his aluminium water company, Mananalu.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jason Momoa’s next major film role?
Momoa is set to play the iconic DC anti-hero Lobo in Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, scheduled for release on 26 June 2026. He has also been confirmed to portray Blanka in the upcoming live-action Street Fighter reboot.
Is Jason Momoa still playing Aquaman?
Momoa’s tenure as Aquaman in the original DC Extended Universe concluded with Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom in 2023. His future involvement in the character under the new DC Studios leadership led by James Gunn and Peter Safran has not been officially detailed, though he has expressed openness to returning.
What was his last television project?
His most recent major television project is Chief of War, an Apple TV+ historical drama series in which he starred as Kaʻiana, and served as co-creator and executive producer. The series was released in August 2025.