Early Life, Beginnings, and Rise to Fame Filmography, TV Roles, and On‑Screen Highlights
Keneti James Fitzgerald Apa, born on June 17, 1997, in Auckland, New Zealand, was raised in a Christian household by his Samoan father, Tupa’i Keneti Apa, a village chief, and his European New Zealander mother, Tessa. He has two older sisters, Timena and Arieta, and his uncle is rugby legend Michael Jones. Apa attended King’s College in Auckland and recorded a solo guitar album at age 14. He began his acting career in the New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street (2013–2015) as Kane Jenkins, before moving to Los Angeles, where he was cast as Archie Andrews in Riverdale (2017–2023) after a global talent search.
Filmography, TV Roles, and On‑Screen Highlights
Apa’s breakout role as Archie Andrews in Riverdale, which ran for seven seasons, solidified his status among Hollywood stars. His impressive film credits include A Dog’s Purpose (2017), The Hate U Give (2018), The Last Summer (2019), I Still Believe (2020), Dead Reckoning (2020), Songbird (2020), One Fast Move (2024), and The Map That Leads to You (2025). He also starred in The Cul de Sac (2016) and contributed his voice to songs for I Still Believe. Upcoming projects include Let’s Have Kids! and a biopic of Sublime frontman Bradley Nowell.
Modeling Work, Campaigns, and Public Image
Apa has modeled for Lacoste underwear and appeared in fashion editorials that highlight his athletic build and signature red hair. His shirtless scenes in Riverdale and social media posts have made him a frequent subject of fan edits, alongside bikini babes sexy features and style highlights. Known for his laid-back, rugged aesthetic, he has been featured in campaigns that blend fashion with music.
Personal Life, Interests, and Off‑Screen Presence
Apa dated French model Clara Berry from 2020 to 2024, and they welcomed a son, Sasha Vai Keneti Apa, in September 2021. In 2022, he was awarded the matai title of Savae by his native village, Moata’a in Samoa. A practicing Christian, he has publicly spoken out against homophobia. He enjoys playing guitar, writing music, and spending time with his family. In 2017, he was involved in a minor car accident after falling asleep at the wheel but was unharmed.
Biography, Stats, and Key Details
Full name: Keneti James Fitzgerald Apa
Born: June 17, 1997
Nationality: New Zealander
Career: Active since 2013
Education: King’s College, Auckland
Height: 5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)
Weight: Approximately 167 lbs (76 kg)
Physique: Athletic build
Hair: Dark brown (dyed red for Riverdale)
Eyes: Dark brown
Shoe size: 11 US
