Jay Ryan is a New Zealand actor best known for his roles in television series and films. He gained popularity for his portrayal of Ben Hawkins in the TV series Beauty and the Beast, which aired from 2012 to 2016. Ryan has also appeared in other shows like Top of the Lake and The Secret of the Nile. In addition to his television work, Jay Ryan has acted in various films, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He was born on August 29, 1981, in Dunedin, New Zealand, and began his career in the entertainment industry in the early 2000s.