NZ Actor and Arm Wrestler "Levi Holley" dies aged 48 by Brain Cancer

metalmachine · Dec 22, 2023

New Zealand actor and competitive arm wrestler Jason “Levi” Holley has died, at the age of 48, following a battle with an incurable brain tumour.

He was reportedly dismissed by numerous health professionals before the cancer was finally diagnosed and a CT scan revealed an inoperable brain tumour the size of an apricot in the middle of his brain.

Holley made news when, in a last-ditch bid for survival, sold all his possessions to seek further treatment for his cancer in Australia, including his car and prized Batman costumes, for the treatment.
Posting on social media, Holley said the $300 a week he received on sickness benefit was not enough to pay for the treatment that might give him a chance of survival.

Holley had small appearances in series such as Westside, Power Rangers Ninja Steel, or Spartacus. Blood and Sand, and other slightly larger appearances like in Straight Forward and Shortland Street. Also in films like Not for Children and You can get blood.

Outside the realm of acting, Holley was an influential figure in the New Zealand arm wrestling community, fondly known as ‘The Smiling Assassin’. He was one of the founding members of the NZ ArmWrestling Federation, and his contributions significantly shaped the sport’s landscape in the region. Holley’s passion for arm wrestling bridged the gap between the New Zealand and Australian communities, fostering stronger ties.