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Joel Kinnaman is a Swedish-American actor, best known for his roles in both television and film. He was born Charles Joel Nordström Kinnaman on November 25, 1979, in Stockholm, Sweden. He has appeared in a variety of genres, gaining widespread recognition for his performances in both Swedish and Hollywood productions.
Early Life and Background
Joel Kinnaman grew up in Stockholm, where he was raised by his Swedish mother and American father (a former U.S. citizen, he is of Swedish descent). His family background gave him dual citizenship, which allowed him to later work in both Swedish and American industries. Kinnaman attended the Swedish National Academy of Mime and Acting, where he developed his acting skills before entering the industry.
Career Highlights
- Swedish Films and TV: Kinnaman’s career began in Sweden, where he initially appeared in Swedish films and television. He gained early recognition for his role in the Swedish film Snabba Cash (2010), which was a commercial success. The film later led to a trilogy, and Kinnaman’s portrayal of the character Johan “Jocke” Westlund was highly praised.
- International Breakthrough – The Killing: Kinnaman’s international breakthrough came when he was cast in the lead role of The Killing (2011–2014), the American adaptation of the Danish crime series Forbrydelsen. He played detective Stephen Holder, which earned him a wider audience, particularly in the U.S.
- Hollywood Success: After The Killing, Kinnaman transitioned to Hollywood and took on several prominent roles:







