In a surprising twist of fate, Australian actor Jack Patten has traded his childhood dream of playing in the AFL for a starring role as Robin Hood in a new Hollywood series. The 28-year-old, who graduated from the National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA) just two years ago, is set to make his mark in a glossy 10-part TV series produced by MGM+.
Patten’s portrayal of the legendary folklore hero comes as Hollywood’s first attempt at the Robin Hood story since the 2018 film starring Taron Egerton. The series, which will air on Stan in Australia, promises a gritty, post-Game of Thrones approach to the classic tale. “I think that theme of justice is forever going to be something that audiences are attracted to,” Patten says, reflecting on the timeless appeal of Robin Hood.
From Sydney to Sherwood Forest
Sitting in a café in Sydney, Patten candidly admits that he never grew up watching Robin Hood. “When I thought of Robin Hood, I thought about the fox – even though I never watched that cartoon version,” he shares. Despite this, his role as the folk hero marks a significant debut, placing him opposite seasoned actor Sean Bean.
The series is set in the dark-and-gritty Middle Ages, where Patten’s character, Rob, rises against Norman conquerors who have seized his community’s land. “It felt really human,” Patten explains, “despite it being quite genre, being set in the 1100s, with romance and swords and all that stuff.”
A New Path After AFL
Patten’s journey to acting was unexpected. Raised in Western Sydney’s Hills District by a single mother, he was passionate about Australian Rules Football, even joining the Sydney Swans Academy. However, a knee injury in 2017 dashed his hopes of a professional sports career. “I loved footy. Loved watching it. Loved playing it,” he recalls. “Ultimately though, I wasn’t good enough.”
It was a colleague who suggested acting classes, leading Patten to The Hub Studio in Chippendale. There, he discovered a new passion. “It was immediate. I was like, ‘Oh, this is the best’,” Patten says, describing his first class. His dedication and natural talent eventually earned him a spot at NIDA, a prestigious acting school whose alumni include Cate Blanchett.
On Set and Beyond
Filming the series in Serbia was an intense experience, with Patten undergoing a three-week training intensive to master archery and horse riding. “I was speechless,” he says about landing the role. “And then I went over to Serbia in mid-January to get the bow and arrow under my belt.”
The cast includes familiar faces like Connie Nielsen and Steven Waddington, alongside newcomers, creating a dynamic environment. Patten describes the shoot as energetic, despite the challenging conditions. “It was a pretty awesome Christmas present,” he adds, referring to when he was cast.
Looking Ahead
With the series set to introduce Patten to a global audience, he remains humble about his burgeoning career. His first role was a guest spot on NCIS: Sydney, which he used as a learning opportunity. “It’s a well-oiled machine,” he notes, praising the professionalism of the cast.
Patten’s attentiveness and talent have not gone unnoticed. He has already secured a role in the upcoming Netflix sci-fi film War Machine, alongside Dennis Quaid and Alan Ritchson. The film’s producer, Todd Lieberman, was so impressed that he recommended Patten for the lead in Robin Hood.
As Patten looks to the future, he is already considering the possibility of a second season. “If we get green lit for a second season, I’ll be practicing my horse riding and archery at home,” he says, demonstrating the same dedication that once fueled his AFL dreams.
