This topic is fun because it’s a secret origin story. Most actors get a job; Ned got a whole character custom-made for him. That’s rare. That’s special.
It’s also fun because Joe Tate is morally messy. He’s not just good or evil. He’s a capitalist with daddy issues. We laugh at his schemes, but we secretly root for him.
Ned Porteous makes that possible. He gives Joe a wink. A little nod. He’s saying, “I know this is ridiculous. Let’s enjoy it together.”
The Takeaway
So, who plays Joe Tate? It’s Ned Porteous: a Kiwi skater, a Star Wars fan, and the guy who made a dead character come back to life. He’s the reason we can’t look away.
Next time you see Joe smirking on screen, remember: That smirk belongs to a nice, funny bloke from the bottom of the world. He’s just pretending to be the devil.
And honestly? We wouldn’t have it any other way. Long live Joe Tate.
