Born in Adelaide, South Australia, Zen Ledden is a talented Australian and Italian actor whose passion for performance initially unfolded in his hometown. His educational journey began at Glenunga International High School, where he had the opportunity to take on the role of Peppino Priore in Eduardo De Filippo's Saturday, Sunday, Monday. Following his completion of the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) with exceptional grades in drama, Ledden went on to audition for The Centre for Performing Arts, now known as Adelaide College of The Arts. His impressive skills and dedication ultimately earned him a spot in the acting class of 1999.
One year into his academic pursuits, a close friend and acting guide, the renowned Bille Brown, who sadly is no longer with us, urged him to take part in the prestigious Zen Zen Zo's Japanese physical theatre Stomping Ground intensive program in Brisbane, which he attended during the summer of 2000. Following his return to Adelaide, he subsequently joined The Yashchin Ensemble, a theatrical collective founded and led by the talented Israeli director and actor Netta Yashchin.
As Ledden's career continued to flourish, he made the pivotal decision to relocate to Melbourne, a city that would prove to be a breeding ground for his artistic growth and development. It was during this time that he had the opportunity to work with the esteemed Melbourne Writers Theatre at The Carlton Courthouse, as well as The Australian Shakespeare Company, a renowned organization that has been a driving force in the country's theatrical landscape.
One of the most notable roles he took on during this period was that of Planchet in The Three Musketeers in 2003, a production that showcased his impressive range and versatility as a performer. This marked a significant milestone in his career, as he began to gain recognition and establish himself as a talented and dedicated artist.
In 2004, Ledden secured his breakthrough in television, landing a role on the popular Australian series Stingers. This was followed by a string of guest appearances, further solidifying his presence in the industry.
In addition to his work in television, Ledden also collaborated with Magnormos Oz Made Musicals on two notable productions. The first, Dutch Courage, was a powerful story of LGBTQ resistance during the Nazi occupation of Germany, and was staged in 2004. The second, A Bunch of Ratbags, was a production that also resulted in a cast recording in 2005.
Ledden's talent and versatility were once again showcased in 2007, when he landed a guest role as Kevin Casey on the popular Australian television series Neighbours. He shared the screen with esteemed actors Nicky Whelan and Rowena Wallace, and his performance was met with critical acclaim.
Noted Australian actor, Andrew Ledden, made a triumphant return to his hometown of Adelaide in 2001 and 2007 to reprise his role on the popular television series, McLeod's Daughters. This marked a significant milestone in his career, as he was able to rekindle his connection with the city and its people.
In the years that followed, Ledden's personal life took a momentous turn, as he tied the knot with his beloved partner, Stefano Pratola, a talented radio producer. This union was a testament to the power of love and commitment.
Fast forward to 2024, Ledden made the bold decision to become a citizen of Italy, a move that would undoubtedly bring new experiences and opportunities his way. As a result, he now enjoys a unique dual residence, splitting his time between Australia and Italy. This remarkable achievement is a testament to his adventurous spirit and his ability to adapt to new surroundings.
