Henry Ian Cusick, the beloved actor known for his role as Desmond Hume in the iconic TV series Lost, has a fascinating personal story that extends far beyond his Hollywood career. In this article, I'll delve into his life away from the spotlight, particularly his time in Hawaii, where he has made a home for himself and his family.
A Global Background
Cusick's journey is a testament to the diverse tapestry of his heritage. Born on April 17, 1967, in Trujillo, Peru, to Esperanza Chávez and Henry Joseph Cusick, he is a product of a multicultural upbringing. His mother is Peruvian, and his father is Scottish, a blend that has undoubtedly influenced his global perspective. The family's travels took them from Peru to Spain and then to Trinidad and Tobago, where they resided for a decade. It was during their time in Trinidad and Tobago that Henry's interest in acting began to blossom.
At the age of 14, the family relocated to a small town outside of Glasgow, Scotland, where Cusick's passion for acting truly ignited. He enrolled at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, but his time there was cut short due to attendance issues, prompting him to leave during his second year. Despite this setback, his determination to pursue acting remained unwavering.
A Stage Career Takes Off
Cusick's acting career began on the stage, where he started as an understudy in a Christmas panto. This marked the beginning of a prolific stage career, with roles in productions such as The Picture of Dorian Gray, Hamlet, and The Country Wife. Through these experiences, he formed a close friendship with Brian Cox, a renowned actor and a fellow Scot.
Falling in Love with Hawaii
Cusick's life took an unexpected turn when he was cast in Lost. The show was filmed entirely on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, and in 2006, he joined the production, bringing his wife, Annie, with him. It was during this time that he fell in love with the island and its people.
In an interview with KHON2, Cusick shared his initial thoughts on Hawaii: "At first, I came out here to shoot three episodes, and that's why I got to Hawaiʻi. Then the story changed. When they didn't kill me off after the third episode, I thought there was a possibility of coming back, and I manifested it."
His love for the island grew, and he decided to stay after the show wrapped in 2010. Cusick explained, "We certainly feel part of the community, the film and TV community, or even just a local community in Kailua."
A Family Life in Paradise
Cusick and his wife, Annie Wood, a theater director who has produced short films, tied the knot in 2006. They have three sons, Lucas, Eli, and Esaú, who were six, eight, and 12 years old when they moved to Hawaii. Despite not being from Hawaii themselves, the family quickly embraced island life.
Cusick humorously recalled, "When my son went to school in slippers, I couldn't believe he was able to wear them. That was a huge moment for me."
The actor's love for Hawaii is evident in his words: "I still, to this day, wake up and when I see the water, I smile. It just blows me away that we live here and sharing this life together is really the most amazing part."
In conclusion, Henry Ian Cusick's life in Hawaii is a testament to his adaptability and love for a new home. His global background, stage career, and unexpected love for the island make for an intriguing personal story that adds depth to his already impressive acting career.
