Who are Samoans and where are they from?
Samoans are a Polynesian people who inhabit the islands of Samoa, which are divided into two territories: American Samoa and Samoa (formerly known as Western Samoa). The Samoan language is part of the Austronesian language family and is widely spoken in both territories. Samoans have a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional dance, music, and art.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: A Samoan-American superstar
Dwayne Johnson, also known as “The Rock,” is one of the most well-known Samoan Americans in the world. Born in California, Johnson’s mother is of Samoan descent and his father is African American. Johnson rose to fame as a professional wrestler before transitioning to a successful career in Hollywood. He has starred in blockbuster films such as the Fast and Furious franchise, Jumanji, and Moana, in which he played the demigod Maui.
Troy Polamalu: Samoan roots in NFL history
Troy Polamalu is a retired NFL football player who is of Samoan descent. He was born in California to a Samoan mother and German father. Polamalu played for the Pittsburgh Steelers for his entire career and was considered one of the best safeties in NFL history. He was a two-time Super Bowl champion and was named to the Pro Bowl eight times. Polamalu has also been recognized for his charitable work, including starting a foundation to support at-risk youth.
Faizon Love: Comedian and actor of Samoan descent
Faizon Love is a comedian and actor who is of Samoan descent. He was born in Cuba to a Samoan mother and African American father. Love has appeared in a number of popular movies and TV shows, including Friday, Elf, and The Parent ‘Hood. He is known for his comedic timing and larger-than-life personality.
Lani Wendt Young: Samoan author and journalist
Lani Wendt Young is a Samoan author and journalist who has gained international recognition for her writing. She was born and raised in Samoa and has written several books, including the Telesa trilogy, which is a young adult fantasy series inspired by Samoan myths and legends. Young has also written extensively about social issues affecting Pacific Islander communities, including and climate change.
Seiuli Dwayne Momoa: Aquaman and proud Samoan
Seiuli Dwayne Momoa, also known as Jason Momoa, is an actor who is of Samoan descent. He was born in Hawaii to a Samoan mother and Hawaiian father. Momoa is best known for his role as Aquaman in the DC Extended Universe films, as well as his portrayal of Khal Drogo in Game of Thrones. He has been vocal about his pride in his Samoan heritage and has incorporated elements of Samoan culture into his work.
Jesse Sapolu: A legendary Samoan NFL player and activist
Jesse Sapolu is a retired NFL football player who is of Samoan descent. He was born in American Samoa and played for the San Francisco 49ers for his entire career. Sapolu was a four-time Super Bowl champion and a two-time Pro Bowl selection. He has also been active in the Samoan community, starting a foundation to help Samoan students attend college and advocating for better healthcare access for Pacific Islanders.
Nicole Scherzinger
Nicole Scherzinger is a singer and actress who is of Samoan descent. She was born in Hawaii to a Filipino mother and a Samoan father. She has also appeared in movies such as Men in Black 3 and Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights.
David Tua: Samoan heavyweight boxer and champion
David Tua is a retired heavyweight boxer who is of Samoan descent. He was born in Samoa and grew up in New Zealand. Tua was a top contender for much of his career and fought some of the best boxers of his era, including Lennox Lewis and Mike Tyson. He won multiple regional titles and was known for his power and aggressive style.
Peter Maivia: Samoan WWE pioneer and legend
Peter Maivia was a professional wrestler who is considered a pioneer of Samoan wrestlers in the WWE. He was born in American Samoa and began his wrestling career in the 1960s. Maivia was one of the first Samoan wrestlers to achieve mainstream success and was a two-time Tag Team Champion in the WWE. He is also the grandfather of Dwayne Johnson.
Benny Agbayani: Samoan baseball player from Hawaii
Benny Agbayani is a retired baseball player who is of Samoan descent. He was born and raised in Hawaii and played for several Major League Baseball teams, including the New York Mets and the Colorado Rockies. Agbayani was known for his power-hitting and was a fan favorite during his career.
Samoa Joe: A professional wrestler of Samoan descent with a unique backstory
Samoa Joe is a professional wrestler who is of Samoan descent. He was born in California to Samoan parents and grew up in a family of professional wrestlers. Joe has competed in several wrestling promotions, including Ring of Honor and TNA Wrestling, before signing with WWE. He is known for his hard-hitting style and intense promos. Joe has also been vocal about his Samoan heritage and has incorporated it into his wrestling persona.
