1. Overview
Nicolaj Kopernikus (born Nicolaj Christiansen on August 9, 1967) is a prominent Danish actor who has made significant contributions across film, television, and voice acting. He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Vagn Skærbæk in the first series of the acclaimed crime drama *The Killing*. His distinguished career has been marked by several accolades, notably receiving a Bodil Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his performance in the 2000 film *The Bench*.
2. Life
2.1. Early life and background
Nicolaj Kopernikus was born Nicolaj Christiansen on August 9, 1967, in Glostrup, a municipality in the Capital Region of Denmark. Further details about his early life and upbringing are not extensively documented in the provided sources.
3. Career
Nicolaj Kopernikus has built a versatile career as an actor, encompassing various roles in both Danish and international productions, and extending his talents to voice acting.
3.1. Acting career
Kopernikus is recognized for his diverse range of acting roles in films and television series. His performances often include dramatic and supporting characters, contributing significantly to the narratives of the projects he undertakes. One of his most notable roles was as Vagn Skærbæk in the first season of the Danish crime drama series *The Killing*, which garnered international acclaim.
3.2. Filmography
Kopernikus has appeared in numerous films throughout his career, showcasing his acting depth across various genres.
| Year | Title | Role | Notes | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | The Bench | Stig | Won Bodil Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role | ||||
| 2001 | The Last Symphony of Woyzeck | ||||||
| 2002 | Okay | 2004 | In Your Hands | Henrik | |||
| 2005 | Dark Horse | ||||||
| 2006 | Blast | ||||||
| 2007 | Karla's World | Leif | |||||
| 2007 | Just Like Home | ||||||
| 2007 | Island of Lost Souls | ||||||
| 2007 | With Your Permission | ||||||
| 2009 | Karla & Katrine | ||||||
| 2010 | Karla and Jonas | ||||||
| 2010 | Olsen Gang Gets Polished | Benny Frandsen | |||||
| 2011 | The Reunion | Niels | |||||
| 2012 | A Caretaker's Tale | Viborg |
3.3. Television appearances
In addition to his film work, Nicolaj Kopernikus has also featured prominently in television series, both Danish and international productions.
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | The Killing | Vagn Skærbæk | Series 1 |
| 2011 | The Bridge | Ole | Series 1, episode 2 |
| 2014 | Midsomer Murders | Thomas Madsen | Series 16, episode 5 (The Killings at Copenhagen) |
3.4. Voice acting
Kopernikus has also lent his voice to animated productions. Notably, he was a voice actor in the 2011 animated film Freddy Frogface (original title: Orla FrøsnapperDanish).
4. Awards and nominations
Nicolaj Kopernikus has received recognition for his acting performances, most notably for his role in the film *The Bench*.
- Bodil Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role:**
- Won:** 2001, for his role as Stig in *The Bench* (2000).