Shane Cortese

Shane Cortese is one of New Zealand’s most recognisable performers with a multitude of television, film, theatre and music credits to his name.

Shane’s recent television credits include a role on Legend of the Seeker and the lead role of Brian in the New Zealand drama television series, Burying Brian. He is also widely remembered for his two year stint on drama serial Shortland Street as evil Dominic Thompson – a character killed off in spectacular fashion.

In 2006 Shane presented the entertainment series, So You Think You Can Dance? and won the hearts of the nation as runner up on Dancing With The Stars in 2005. Shane met his partner, Nerida on this series; they married in early 2009 and have a son together.

Shane also had a role on the children’s series Maddigan’s Quest in 2005 and on the film, Inside that same year.

Shane also fronts his own rock ‘n’ roll band, The Class of 58, which has played all over New Zealand. The band plays a selection of Rock ‘n’ Roll hits, including Elvis Presley.

Before returning to New Zealand for Shortland Street, Shane starred in musicals all over London and the United Kingdom.

Shane Cortese plays Hayden Peters.

Q&A with Shane Cortese

  • Katrina asks Shane: Wow firstly really amazingly awesome performance on Cats. I saw you in Cats on the 6th of June. Brilliant voice which blew me away. My question is: What age did you start performing? And How did your big break come around on both screen and stage?

    Hi,

    Thanks for your kind words, it’s great being part of such a talented and enthusiatic cast. So glad you came.

    I started performing professionally quite late (24) and got my first big break on stage in 1995 with the Rocky Horror Show at the Duke of Yorks Theatre in London. My first big break on TV came when they cast me as Dom on Shortland Street and gave me some great storylines to sink my teeth into.

    Just remember if you love it and you’re dedicated it’s never too early or late to start.

    Cheers
    SC

  • Shane asks Shane: I am doing a report at my school Palmerston North Boys High, Would you please be able to tell me what schools you went to. Thank You

    Tauranga Boys College and Palmerston North Boys High School.

  • Kaitlyn asks Shane: wats ur star sign and the date of ur b day im doing a celeb calender

    Leo, 13 August, 1968.

  • Cindy asks Shane: It was just out of camera shot, but did I really see you do the Footy how’s “That’s Gold!” in last night’s episode? Great stuff! It would be hilarious if it got on to the Footy Show…

    Hi Cindy

    Thanks so much for your question!

    And yes, I did do a ‘That’s Gold’ when I was talking to Pascalle in the kithchen. Good spotting!!

    Cheers, Shane.

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