Halldóra Geirharðsdóttir

Halldóra Geirharðsdóttir (born 12 October 1968) is a prominent Icelandic actress and musician whose career spans over three decades, merging theatrical performance with musical talent. Raised in Reykjavík, she entered the Icelandic cultural scene in the mid‑1980s as a saxophonist and vocalist for the avant‑garde group Reptile, contributing to the band’s experimental sound from 1984 until 1990. After earning her degree from the Iceland University of the Arts in 1995, she transitioned to acting, quickly becoming known for her versatility and intense character work. Her early screen appearances demonstrated a natural charisma, but it was her iconic portrayal of the clown Barbara that cemented her reputation as a daring performer willing to explore unconventional roles. In 2018 she achieved international acclaim starring in Benedikt Erlingsson’s Woman at War, where she delivered a double performance as Halla, a 50‑year‑old singing teacher, and her twin sister Ása, weaving themes of feminism, environmental activism, and personal resilience. The film garnered prestigious awards such as the European Parliament’s Lux Prize and the Grand Audience Award at the Seville Film Festival, bringing global attention to Icelandic cinema and to Halldóra’s compelling screen presence. Beyond her artistic pursuits, Halldóra is an active UNICEF ambassador, traveling to countries including Africa, Peru, Uganda, Haiti, and Ecuador to support humanitarian projects. She balances a demanding professional life with a large family, having five children – the eldest born when she was just twenty – and three grandchildren, reflecting a deep commitment to both her craft and her personal roots.