Liv Hewson, a talent hailing from Canberra, has carved out a unique space in the entertainment industry, earning recognition for their roles in popular shows like 'Santa Clarita Diet' and 'Yellowjackets'. Their latest venture, the Australian crime thriller 'Treasure & Dirt', further solidifies their standing. Beyond their acting prowess, Hewson's personal narrative, particularly their journey of self-discovery as a non-binary individual and the impact of gender-affirming surgery, provides a compelling insight into their authentic presence both on and off-screen. This narrative underscores a profound connection to their Australian origins and a commitment to fostering diverse storytelling within the arts.
Canberra Actor Liv Hewson's Path to Hollywood and Personal Affirmation
In a recent interview via Zoom from Sydney, on August 22, 2026, Canberra-born actor Liv Hewson, at the age of 30, reflected on their burgeoning career and personal journey. Known for their work in Netflix's 'Santa Clarita Diet' and the acclaimed series 'Yellowjackets', Hewson is currently gaining attention for their compelling portrayal of Nell Buchanan in the Australian crime thriller 'Treasure & Dirt'. This role, which they describe as a career highlight, showcases Hewson's ability to embody complex characters, presenting Nell as an ambitious, self-contained, yet captivating enigma. Their striking presence, both in character and on the red carpet, is noted as a testament to newfound confidence and self-acceptance.
Hewson's Canberra roots run deep, growing up in Hughes and developing their acting skills at the Canberra Youth Theatre. They fondly recall memories of the Eddison skate park, the kangaroos on Red Hill, and the 'unbelievable chicken' from a local Woden Plaza eatery, all contributing to their strong sense of identity with their hometown. This authentic connection to Canberra has informed their desire to contribute to distinct Australian artistic productions.
A significant aspect of Hewson's personal narrative is their non-binary identity, which they embraced at 16, long before it entered mainstream conversations. Four years ago, Hewson underwent top surgery, a decision that dramatically enhanced their physical and psychological comfort. This transformation, they assert, has profoundly improved their posture, relationship with exercise, and overall sense of ease in their body, allowing for a more authentic expression of self. The shift in public understanding of non-binary identities has also been a positive development, moving from constant personal explanations to a more widespread recognition and acceptance.
Now partially based in the United States, Hewson expresses a strong desire to return to Australia regularly to work on local productions. They believe Australia possesses all the necessary ingredients—talented crews, writers, and actors—to create 'consistently interesting, strange, specific art.' Their experience filming 'Treasure & Dirt' in Coober Pedy, South Australia, was described as life-changing, fostering deep connections with the cast and crew and reaffirming their commitment to unique storytelling. The series, an outback noir thriller adapted from Chris Hammer's novel, offers a fresh perspective on the Australian crime genre, using familiar archetypes to surprise and engage audiences. Hewson finds themselves drawn to projects with a clear specificity of tone, voice, or place, and 'Treasure & Dirt' perfectly aligns with this artistic preference.
Despite their international success, Canberra remains a significant touchstone for Hewson, a city that holds cherished memories, particularly of its distinctive bus shelters, remnants of their early life as a pedestrian and public transport user. While acknowledging Canberra's evolving landscape, Hewson appreciates the city's unique charm and its continuous growth.
Liv Hewson's journey offers a powerful testament to the importance of authenticity and self-acceptance, both in one's personal life and professional endeavors. Their success in Hollywood, coupled with a deep-seated connection to their Australian origins, highlights the global potential of local talent. Moreover, Hewson's openness about their non-binary identity and the positive impact of gender-affirming care serves as an inspiring example of personal courage and the growing acceptance of diverse identities within society. Their commitment to supporting and creating distinctively Australian art ensures that their unique voice and experiences will continue to enrich the global cultural landscape.