Mikkel Gaup

Mikkel Mathis Gaup, born on January 16, 1968 in Alta, Norway, is a prominent Sámi‑Norwegian actor whose career spans over three decades. He first captured international attention with his breakthrough role as Aigin in the 1987 film Pathfinder, directed by his uncle Nils Gaup, a performance that helped the movie secure a nomination for Best Foreign Language Film at the 1988 Academy Awards. Following this auspicious debut, Gaup demonstrated remarkable versatility, appearing in a variety of cinematic projects such as the 1991 drama The Miracle, the critically acclaimed Lars von Trier’s Breaking the Waves (1996), and the 2008 historical epic The Kautokeino Rebellion, where he portrayed the legendary Sami leader Aslak Hætta. Beyond the silver screen, he has cultivated a robust stage career, collaborating with institutions like Beaivváš Sámi Theatre, Den Nationale Scene, and Riksteatret, where his powerful presence and deep connection to his cultural roots have resonated with audiences. In addition to acting, Gaup is an accomplished joiker, recording traditional Sami folk music and keeping the ancient art form alive for new generations. His artistic pursuits also extended to the national music arena when he teamed up with Marianne Pentha for the 2021 Melodi Grand Prix, performing the song “Pages.”

Gaup’s personal life reflects his commitment to family and cultural heritage. He shares a daughter, Maiken Madeleine, with partner Laila Rennan, and in July 2012 he married Trine Næssvik in a ceremony held in Gudbrandsdalen. Throughout his ongoing career, which officially began in 1987 and continues to the present, Gaup remains a vital figure in both Norwegian and Sámi artistic circles, bridging traditional expression with contemporary performance across film, theatre, and music.