Manu Bennett (born 10 October 1969) is a New Zealand–Australian actor best known for his commanding screen presence and physically demanding roles across film and television. He rose to international recognition as the ferocious gladiator Crixus in Spartacus, where his intensity and emotional depth made him a standout figure in the series. Bennett went on to portray iconic characters such as Azog the Defiler in The Hobbit trilogy and Slade Wilson in Arrow, cementing his reputation for bringing gravitas and complexity to larger-than-life roles. His career is defined by a rare balance of raw physicality and introspective performance, making him a cult favourite in fantasy, action, and genre storytelling.

Off screen, his personal style is rugged, masculine, and quietly refined, echoing the strength of his on-screen personas without tipping into excess. Manu Bennett gravitates towards dark tones, leather, structured outerwear, and relaxed tailoring that feel powerful yet understated. Eyewear plays a subtle but defining role in his look, often chosen to enhance structure and presence rather than act as a statement. He has been seen wearing classic sunglasses from Mykita and Balmain with strong, masculine silhouettes — squared or aviator-inspired frames with dark lenses that suit his commanding features. Whether attending conventions, press events, or moving through everyday life, Bennett’s eyewear complements a look that feels grounded, formidable, and effortlessly confident.