London is no stranger to stars, but one talent burning brighter than the rest is Renel Kiriakos. Renowned for her transformative performances and range, the actress has delighted audiences across theatre and television with her compelling work. From gripping dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, this Mediterranean beauty goes above and beyond, impressing both critics and fans alike with her incredible versatility.
Kiriakos’ unique ability to delve into the heart and soul of her characters is how she showcases her talent and hard work. Beyond her acting prowess, she is a woman of many interests, with passions that range from traveling and exploring new places to her love for animals. Her vibrant personality and zest for life have become integral parts of her identity, both on and off-screen.
We sat down with Renel Kiriakos to learn more about her story, passions, life, and soul.
Can you tell us about your journey into acting? How did it all start?
From a young age, I was drawn to acting. As a child, I often went to TV studios and to places like the West End and the Royal Opera in London with my family. These experiences surrounded me with art and culture. The exposure sparked my interest and motivated me to pursue acting as a career.
Who has been the most influential person in your life, and how have they shaped your acting career?
While many individuals have touched my life, the collective spirit of the filmmaking world has had the deepest impact on me. Witnessing the collaboration and passion behind the scenes in TV studios molded my appreciation for the craft. This communal drive, rather than a single person, has been the cornerstone of my acting inspiration.
You’re known for your ability to play characters from diverse ethnic backgrounds. How do you approach these roles to ensure authenticity?
To ensure authenticity, I use multiple methods. First, I research and understand the culture associated with the character’s background. Then, I employ a ‘pie’ method, where I dissect the character into pieces and analyze each piece based on the experiences and environment of the character.
As someone with a classical studies background, how does this academic experience influence your acting?
My academic background greatly influences my acting. It helps me to approach roles from a more analytical perspective and to understand the dynamics of every situation deeply.
What’s your most memorable acting experience, and why does it stand out?
A standout moment was when I played a woman with her husband in the surgery room. Expected to deliver a serious or dramatic line, I instead said something humorous: “My husband is in surgery because another woman’s image got stuck in his mind!” The surprise and laughter from everyone were memorable.
Given your wide range of roles, which one has been your favorite so far, and why?
My favorite role was in the film “The Mysterious Cloth.” The experience was unique due to its rich backstory, and working with such a talented cast and crew on an incredible set was truly rewarding.
Can you share a moment when you felt highly challenged during a role? How did you overcome it?
Playing a policewoman who caught one of the main mafia guys in a gangster film was highly challenging. The emotional depth required was immense, but I thoroughly enjoyed it as it allowed me to explore new facets of myself.
What do you enjoy doing in your downtime when you’re not acting?
In my downtime, I love traveling, meeting and making new friends, exploring new cultures, and having fresh experiences.
You’ve lived in Swansea and London. How have these places influenced you as an individual and as an actress?
Living in Swansea, a quaint town with a beautiful beach, subtly influenced my accent over two years. On the other hand, London is a bustling city that offers new experiences daily, shaping me both as an individual and an actress.
You’re multilingual, which is an incredible asset. How does this skill help you in your acting career?
Being multilingual helps me better understand and respect different cultures. It aids me in developing my characters, understanding their backgrounds, and portraying them more authentically.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and how has it guided you in your career?
The best advice I received was to explore my emotions further and express them even while observing them. This advice has helped me portray characters with deeper emotions and feelings.
If you weren’t an actress, what profession would you be pursuing?
Although I hold two degrees and once considered teaching, I can’t envision myself in any other profession besides acting.
The future holds promising opportunities for Renel Kiriakos as she continues to explore diverse roles and push boundaries. Fans and critics are excited to see where her journey will take her next–the stage and the silver screen will continue to be lit by her extraordinary performances.
