The remarkable journey of a Rwandan martial artist, actor, and stuntman reshaping African narratives on screen.
From surviving personal and national trauma to performing high-stakes stunts in blockbuster films, Janvier Katabarwa’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and cultural pride. He isn’t just making movies—he’s forging a legacy that bridges continents and reclaims African narratives on the global screen.
Roots in Rwanda
Born in November 1986 in Nyamagabe District, located in Rwanda’s scenic Southern Province, Janvier’s early life was marked by both hardship and determination. At just 11 years old, he began training in karate, a discipline that would become central to his identity. His commitment and natural talent soon earned him a place on Rwanda’s national karate team, making him the youngest athlete to do so at the time.
Not content with mastering one discipline, Janvier later trained in kickboxing, Kobudo, and Judo—a combination that laid a perfect foundation for a future in stunt performance and action cinema.
Alongside martial arts, Janvier was also deeply engaged in community theatre. He was a member of Inyamibwa, the theatrical troupe of the Genocide Survivors Students Association (AERG). Through performance, he helped preserve memory and foster healing in post-genocide Rwanda, particularly focusing on stories that commemorate the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
A new chapter in Canada
At 19, Janvier moved to Montreal, Canada, to study accounting. But despite the security of that path, his passion for storytelling and the arts never left him. After a stint working in the oil industry in Grande Prairie, Alberta, Janvier made a life-changing decision: to leave corporate life behind and pursue a career in film.
That decision led him to Vancouver, one of North America’s top film production hubs. There, he trained intensively, auditioned tirelessly, and slowly began carving out a space for himself in the film industry—as both an actor and stunt performer.
Breakthroughs in film & television
Lead Role: Bullet Proof (a.k.a. Death Pursuit) – 2022
Janvier’s breakout performance came in 2022 with the action-packed film Bullet Proof (also marketed as Death Pursuit in some regions). He portrayed The Frenchman, a lead antagonist known for his deadly efficiency and cold charisma. Acting alongside stars like Vinnie Jones and James Clayton, Janvier not only delivered an impressive performance but also performed his own stunts, showcasing his combat discipline, agility, and fearlessness.
The film was released globally by Lionsgate and IndustryWorks Studios, earning him widespread praise and putting him on the map as a powerful presence in action cinema.
“Bullet Proof marked Janvier as a rising force in the action genre, catching the attention of both critics and international audiences,” wrote one Rwandan reviewer.
Major stunt credits
Janvier’s exceptional martial arts background quickly landed him roles as a stunt performer in several internationally renowned productions. His IMDb-listed credits include:
– 2018: Deadpool 2
– 2018:Arrow
– 2021:Superman & Lois
– 2021:The Flash
– 2021:Supergirl
– 2022:Peacemaker (Ep. 1 & 2)
His performances are marked by precision, intensity, and discipline—qualities that have earned him respect in the highly competitive world of stunt performance.
Recognition and representation
In 2023, Janvier was named one of the Top 100 African Actors by Ranks Africa Magazine, joining fellow stars such as Ncuti Gatwa, Bahavu Jeannette, Yuhi Amuli, and Alliah Cool. This recognition was not just a nod to his on-screen performances—it celebrated his dedication to authentic African storytelling and his mission to elevate Rwandan culture on the world stage.
A registered member of ACTRA (The Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists), Janvier sees himself not only as an entertainer but as a cultural ambassador. He actively turns down stereotypical roles and seeks stories that center Black history, dignity, and resilience.
One of his most cherished ambitions is to portray Yasuke, the legendary African samurai who served in 16th-century Japan—a role that perfectly reflects Janvier’s blend of physical discipline and historical reverence.
“Until the lion learns to speak, the tale will always glorify the hunter,” he often says—a proverb that anchors his vision of using cinema as a tool to give voice to the silenced.
Advocacy, community, and connection
Despite his growing fame, Janvier remains deeply connected to his Rwandan roots. He has used interviews with local platforms like Inyarwanda and Rwanda magazine to thank the community that raised him and continues to support him.
“Abanyarwanda mwakoze kunshyigikira”—“Thank you, Rwandans, for your support,” he told Inyarwanda after Bullet Proof gained popularity in his home country.
Although reports suggest he has participated in community and university commemoration events (such as one at Simon Fraser University), public records confirming this specific appearance remain unverified. Nevertheless, his consistent advocacy for remembrance, education, and cultural pride is well documented in multiple interviews.
The Road ahead
Janvier Katabarwa continues to seek roles that align with his values and deepen his mission. He is particularly drawn to projects that:
Celebrate African heritage
Elevate marginalized voices
Blend action, history, and emotion
Whether doubling for a superhero or stepping into the lead as a complex villain or historic warrior, Janvier sees each role as an opportunity to challenge old narratives and offer something real.
