[2][3] He was educated at Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School, graduating in 1987 with a Diploma in Acting.

He became well known for his role in Gary Henderson's play Skin Tight, which he performed hundreds of times over numerous tours.

[5][6][7][8] The first screen role Brophy played was in 1988 in Small War on the Edge of Town produced by the National Film Unit.

[5] He has been part of many screen and film projects with director Peter Jackson and associated digital company Weta.

[9][10] Nokia New Zealand Film Awards (2001) - Nominated for Best Performance in a Short Film: for Room Tone[5] Drifting Clouds Short Film Festival New Zealand (2000) - Best Actor: for Group Therapy[5] Chapman Tripp Theatre Awards (2009) - Best Actor for The Blackening by Paul Rothwell[11]