Cast and Crew of Tarzan

Tarzan

In the breathtaking adventure of 'Tarzan,' young John Clayton Jr., portrayed by the skilled Travis Fimmel, faces an extraordinary journey that began two decades ago when he was just a child. After losing his parents in a tragic incident, John is left to fend for himself in the heart of the African jungle. Adopted and raised by a tribe of apes, he grows into the formidable and fearless figure known as Tarzan, embodying the wild and untamed spirit of the jungle. His life takes a dramatic turn when he is captured by his uncle, Richard Clayton, the ambitious CEO of Greystoke Industries, who has plans for his long-lost relative to reclaim his family legacy in the modern world.

Reluctantly thrust back into civilization and the bustling streets of New York City, Tarzan struggles to adapt while grappling with the instincts and values instilled in him by his animal family. As he roams through the urban chaos, the clash of worlds creates a striking backdrop for an unexpected encounter with Officer Jane Porter, played by Sarah Wayne Callies. An NYPD detective with a strong sense of duty, Jane is initially shocked by Tarzan’s primal existence. However, she soon discovers a kindred spirit in him; his profound morality and unwavering integrity challenge her perceptions of justice and humanity in a world overrun by corruption and greed.

As their lives intertwine, Jane finds herself torn between two worlds—her established life with her boyfriend, Detective Michael Foster, and the wild, instinctual bond forming with Tarzan. This powerful dynamic propels Jane into an emotional storm, forcing her to navigate through her conflicting feelings of loyalty and desire. Caught between reason and instinct, the complexities of civilization versus raw humanity unfold in a way that challenges both characters to confront their deepest fears and desires. Their journey reveals not only the essence of what it means to belong but also the transformative power of love that transcends the barriers of society and the wild.

Main Cast of Tarzan

Travis Fimmel as John Clayton Jr. / Tarzan

Travis Fimmel

John Clayton Jr. / Tarzan
Travis Fimmel brought a compelling ruggedness and raw vulnerability to his portrayal of John Clayton Jr. / Tarzan in the television adaptation of the classic tale. His performance was a departure from the traditional depiction of the character, infusing the aristocratic Englishman raised by apes with a grittier, more primal edge. Fimmel's Tarzan was not just a man who could swing from vines and communicate with wildlife; he was a deeply conflicted individual, grappling with his dual identity and the inherent violence of his upbringing. The actor's physicality was impressive, showcasing the character's brute strength and agility, while his nuanced portrayal of Tarzan's internal struggles and emotional depth added layers of complexity to the character. Fimmel's portrayal was marked by a palpable intensity and a subtle charisma that resonated with audiences, making his Tarzan a memorable and modern interpretation of the iconic literary figure.
Sarah Wayne Callies as Officer Jane Porter

Sarah Wayne Callies

Officer Jane Porter
Sarah Wayne Callies brought a nuanced and compelling portrayal to the character of Officer Jane Porter in the television series "Tarzan." Her performance was characterized by a strong on-screen presence and an ability to convey depth and complexity. Callies infused Jane with intelligence and determination, perfectly capturing the character's evolution from a police officer navigating the complexities of the jungle to a resilient partner for the titular hero. Her chemistry with the actor playing Tarzan was palpable, providing a believable foundation for the iconic relationship. Callies' Jane was both vulnerable and formidable, showcasing a wide emotional range that resonated with viewers. She balanced the character's modern sensibilities with the demands of the exotic setting, ensuring that Jane remained a relatable and empowering figure throughout the series. Callies' portrayal was a standout aspect of the show, offering a fresh take on a classic character and contributing significantly to the series' appeal.
Miguel A. Núñez Jr. as Detective Sam Sullivan

Miguel A. Núñez Jr.

Detective Sam Sullivan
Miguel A. Núñez Jr. brought a distinctive blend of charisma and intensity to his portrayal of Detective Sam Sullivan in the television series "Tarzan." As a seasoned actor with a knack for both drama and comedy, Núñez infused the character with a compelling mix of streetwise smarts and a disarming sense of humor, making Sullivan a standout member of the show's ensemble. His performance was characterized by a natural gravitas, which complemented the physicality and danger inherent in the world of "Tarzan." Núñez's Sullivan was both a grounded foil and a complementary force to the titular hero, offering viewers a bridge between the wild, untamed jungle and the familiar urban landscape. With a strong presence and an ability to convey deep emotion and sharp wit, Núñez's portrayal added depth and complexity to the narrative, ensuring that Detective Sam Sullivan was not just a sidekick, but a memorable character in his own right.
Leighton Meester as Nicki Porter

Leighton Meester

Nicki Porter
Leighton Meester delivered a captivating performance as Nicki Porter in the short-lived 2003 television adaptation of "Tarzan." As Nicki, Meester portrayed a bright and spirited young woman who finds herself entangled in the lives of Tarzan and Jane after they all end up in New York City. Meester's portrayal was praised for its depth and authenticity, bringing a sense of warmth and relatability to the character. Despite the series' brief run, her performance as the resourceful and kind-hearted Nicki showcased her range as an actress and her ability to hold her own alongside the show's leads. Leighton's natural charisma and charm shone through, making Nicki Porter a standout character and an early indication of the promising career that would unfold for her in the years to follow.
Lucy Lawless as Kathleen Clayton

Lucy Lawless

Kathleen Clayton
Lucy Lawless delivered a memorable performance as Kathleen Clayton in the television series "Tarzan," which aired in the early 2000s. As Kathleen, Lawless brought her signature strength and charisma to the role, portraying a strong-willed and independent woman who was both a love interest for the titular character and a formidable presence in her own right. Her portrayal of Kathleen was nuanced, showcasing not only her ability to handle action-packed scenes with the physicality fans had come to expect from her, thanks to her iconic role in "Xena: Warrior Princess," but also her capacity for emotional depth and complexity. Lawless's Kathleen was a woman torn between her duties as a socialite and her adventurous spirit, and the actress adeptly navigated these conflicting aspects of the character, ensuring that Kathleen remained a compelling and multifaceted figure throughout her arc on the show. Her performance added a layer of sophistication and empowerment to the series, making Kathleen Clayton a standout character in Lawless's diverse body of work.
Mitch Pileggi as Richard Clayton

Mitch Pileggi

Richard Clayton
Mitch Pileggi delivers a compelling performance as Richard Clayton in the television series "Tarzan," which aired in the early 2000s. Pileggi brings a nuanced complexity to the character, portraying Clayton as a ruthless and cunning businessman with a hidden tenderness. His ability to convey a sense of underlying menace, coupled with a charismatic charm, makes his portrayal of Clayton both intriguing and unsettling. Pileggi's Clayton is a man of power, unafraid to manipulate those around him to achieve his goals, yet the actor manages to infuse the character with subtle vulnerabilities, revealing the cracks in Clayton's steely exterior. His interactions with the titular character, Tarzan, are particularly charged, as the two men represent conflicting ideals and visions for the future. Pileggi's performance is a testament to his range as an actor, seamlessly transitioning from moments of calculated business savvy to those requiring a more emotional depth, ensuring that Richard Clayton remains a memorable and multifaceted antagonist throughout the series.

Crew of Tarzan

Full backstage crew list →