John Karlsen, a menacing-looking Kiwi character actor, enjoyed a remarkably prolific career in Italian films, with a significant portion of his professional life spent in Italy. His journey to Italy began in the late 1950s, marked by his film debut in the Rome-shot Mamie Van Doren vehicle, Le bellissime gambe di Sabrina, in 1958. As a member of Federico Fellini's regular company, Karlsen appeared in four of the renowned director's projects between 1963 and 1973, solidifying his reputation within the Italian film industry.
Karlsen is perhaps most well-known to American audiences for his portrayal of an evil 14th-century duke in the cult classic, Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, which was partially shot in Italy in 1989. His extensive experience in international productions shot in Italy has earned him a reputation as a versatile and accomplished character actor.
At some point, Karlsen returned to his native New Zealand, where he ultimately passed away in 2017.
