Renel Kiriakos: Rising Stars in TV and Film

Renel Kiriakos, a Greek-born, London-based actress, is making waves as a dynamic and versatile figure in the world of performing arts. Starting her journey as a child star, Renel’s career trajectory reflects a remarkable adaptability and passion for acting. Her Greek heritage and London upbringing have instilled her with a unique blend of cultural influences, enriching her performances on both stage and screen.

Renel’s early exposure to diverse artistic environments in Greece and the UK cultivated her love for the arts. This multicultural background is evident in her appreciation for a wide range of global cinema and television, from Hollywood blockbusters to Latin American soap operas and British shows. Renel’s artistic influences are as varied as her roles, drawing inspiration from various genres and eras.

Educationally, Renel boasts an academic background with degrees in Egyptology and Classical Civilization. This scholarly pursuit provides depth and substance to her understanding of complex characters and historical settings. Her education has undoubtedly contributed to her multifaceted abilities, allowing her to navigate diverse roles with ease and authenticity.

Amid the challenges of the Hollywood actors’ strike, Renel has demonstrated resilience and proactivity. She honed additional skills such as belly dancing, horseback riding, and singing, showcasing a commitment to continual growth and adaptation in an evolving industry.

Renel’s acting journey is marked by self-taught skills and guided mentorship rather than formal acting school education. Her coach, Claire Davidson, played a pivotal role in developing her stage and screen acting abilities, with a focus on voice acting and presentation. Renel’s versatility extends to her ability to perform in various accents, adding another layer of adaptability to her repertoire.

Beyond acting, Renel’s life is influenced by her family’s diverse backgrounds. Her mother’s involvement in sports media and communication and her father’s career as an aircraft engineer highlight a blend of artistic and technical influences that have shaped her perspectives and career choices.

Renel’s approach to health and well-being, particularly in an industry that often emphasizes physical appearance, is grounded in balance and self-care. She maintains her health through regular exercise and a balanced diet, reflecting her holistic approach to life and work.

Below, we speak with Renel to discuss her life and learn more about her story and insights.

Thank you so much for joining us! Can you tell us the story of how you grew up?

Renel Kiriakos: My passion for acting was ignited on the streets of Athens, where I grew up. I transformed my everyday surroundings into stages and my friends into fellow actors. At the tender age of seven, I discovered my love for the dramatic arts. This early inclination was not a fleeting childhood fancy, but the beginning of a lifelong commitment to the performing arts. My relentless dedication to perfecting dialogues and participating in school theater laid the groundwork for my future endeavors. I was involved in TV, not only in booths but also in cities and on Royal Opera stages. It was something I loved to do. From a very young age, since primary school, I realized that acting was what I wanted to do and what I loved to do.

Can you share a story with us about what brought you to this specific career path?

Renel Kiriakos: My academic pursuits have been as distinctive as my performances. Education was something my parents unanimously agreed was essential. Before I could pursue my dreams of acting, I excelled at university. My journey through higher education was marked by a rare fusion of the arts and academia. I delved into Egyptology, Classical Civilization, and Archaeology, first in Swansea, UK, and then eventually in London. This unconventional educational path provided me with a profound understanding of human history and cultures, which later became an intrinsic part of my artistic repertoire. It influenced my approach to acting and storytelling. Despite the delay in starting my acting career, I have never once regretted my education. I describe it as essential for me to be the well-founded person I am today.

Can you tell us the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?

Renel Kiriakos: One of the most captivating experiences I’ve had was at Pinewood Studios. The highlight was being accepted into ‘Hello Door,’ a renowned program where I had the privilege of learning from some of the industry’s leading figures. The coaches there have mentored some of the biggest names in Hollywood, including Angelina Jolie. It was an exhilarating and invaluable opportunity to learn from the best in the business.

It has been said that mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you first started? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?

Renel Kiriakos: One of the funniest mistakes I made early in my career occurred due to a misunderstanding. During one of my first gigs, I misheard the director’s instructions. I thought they said I was supposed to act in a scene involving a car, but it turned out to be about a couch – or rather, a coach. The mix-up led to a humorous moment on set when I prepared to ‘drive’ a couch instead of a car. It was a lighthearted lesson in the importance of clear communication, and it certainly broke the ice with the crew!

What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now?

Renel Kiriakos: At the moment, my primary focus is on the finance manager portal, which is an intriguing project in itself. However, the real thrill comes from the YouTube channel I’ve recently launched. It’s gaining traction, and the response has been phenomenal.

When asked about the YouTube channel, I explained that the concept revolves around offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the life of an actor. The channel is a window into my world, showcasing the day-to-day experiences and the unique journey of someone in my profession. It’s not just about the glitz and glamour, but the real, unfiltered life of an actor, which I believe is both fascinating and inspiring to my audience.

As a rising star, you’ve likely faced challenges along the way. How do you stay motivated and overcome obstacles in your career?

Renel Kiriakos: The year 2023 has been a year of significant shifts in my industry. The rise of streaming platforms, the aftermath of the global pandemic, and pivotal labor disputes, including the actors and writers strikes, have collectively reshaped the entertainment landscape. These strikes, which brought to light the ongoing issues around fair compensation and working conditions in the digital age, have underscored the changing dynamics between creators like myself and production companies.

In the midst of these changes, my ability to adapt and my chameleon-like talent to embody various characters have been crucial. I’ve found my versatility and resilience to be invaluable assets, especially in navigating the upheavals in the industry. These experiences have not only showcased my talent but also deepened my understanding of the new realities and challenges we face in the world of entertainment.

My aspirations and dreams in acting constantly fuel my excitement and drive. I’m always looking ahead, eager to achieve and grow in my career.

We are very interested in diversity in the entertainment industry. Can you share three reasons with our readers why you think it’s important to have diversity represented in film and television? How can that potentially affect our culture? 

Renel Kiriakos: In terms of diversity in the entertainment industry, it’s a topic I’m deeply passionate about. First, diversity in film and television acts as a mirror to our diverse societies, especially in multicultural nations like the US and UK. It’s crucial for people from all backgrounds to see themselves represented on screen. This not only fosters a sense of belonging but also strengthens cultural understanding and empathy.

Secondly, showcasing diverse characters and stories challenges stereotypes and breaks down barriers. It allows for a richer narrative tapestry, offering viewers a plethora of perspectives and experiences.

Lastly, embracing diversity in entertainment can be a powerful tool against racism and discrimination. It sends a strong message that talent and stories transcend racial and cultural barriers, promoting inclusivity and equality. This can profoundly influence our culture, shaping more open and accepting communities.

What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why?

Renel Kiriakos:

1 . Starting Point Guidance: A clear understanding of where to begin in the acting industry. The interviewee wished for guidance on how to start, especially given the prevalence of false information and misleading advice targeted at young actors.

2 . Navigating Industry Expectations: Knowing how the industry operates and what is expected from an actor. This includes understanding the desires and expectations of people within the industry, which can be crucial for maintaining important professional relationships.

3 . Emotional Connection and Acting Techniques: Learning effective strategies for bringing out emotions and connecting with roles. The interviewee emphasized the importance of being able to deeply connect with each character and the need for knowing the right techniques to achieve this.

4 . Awareness of Potential Exploitation: Awareness of the risks of exploitation in the industry. The interviewee experienced people who took advantage of her lack of knowledge in the industry, highlighting the need for caution and awareness about such issues.

5 . Location Logistics: Knowledge about the locations of shoots and their distances from major cities. Understanding the logistics of travel and the importance of time management to ensure punctuality and efficiency in attending various shooting locations.

Which tips would you recommend to your colleagues in your industry to help them to thrive and not “burn out”?

Renel Kiriakos: In this industry, it’s crucial to possess a great deal of flexibility, but I’m not talking about physical flexibility. It’s more about being adaptable in the roles you take on and the characters you portray. Additionally, it’s important to embrace the possibility of failure. Accepting and learning from your failures is a key part of the journey. Ultimately, if you are open to failing and learning from it, you’ll find success in the end.

As a person of influence, if you could inspire a movement that would bring the most good to the most people, what would that be?

Renel Kiriakos: If I were to align myself with a movement, it would undoubtedly be the movement of unity. This movement is all about bringing people together, transcending our differences to embrace our common humanity. At the end of the day, we are all humans, and it is through unity that we can achieve remarkable things. The power of unity is not just a concept; it’s a potent force that can drive change and foster understanding, making it an essential element in any endeavor for progress

Nobody can achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful toward who helped get you to where you are?

Renel Kiriakos: The most influential person in my entire life is, without a doubt, my mother. She’s an incredibly powerful and inspiring human being. Throughout my journey, she has been my rock, offering unwavering support every step of the way. Her strength and encouragement have been pivotal; she never once tried to clip my wings. Instead, she has always nurtured my dreams and stood by me in every endeavor. In every aspect of my life, her support has been a guiding force, shaping who I am today.

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote?” How was that relevant to you in your life?

Renel Kiriakos: What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Having faced numerous challenges and losses of loved ones in my life, I’ve come to a profound realization: nothing truly matters except the inevitability of death itself. These experiences have taught me the importance of valuing life and the moments we have.

Is there a person in the world, or in the US, whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why?

Renel Kiriakos: Elizabeth Taylor is a figure I deeply admire for her dynamism and trailblazing spirit. She was a woman of incredible strength and achievement, especially during the 60s and 70s – a time when women faced significant societal limitations. Yet, she broke through these barriers with remarkable openness, independence, and determination. Her ability to succeed in an era that often tried to hold women back was nothing short of revolutionary. Elizabeth Taylor wasn’t just a star; she was a pioneer who redefined what it meant to be a successful woman in her time.

How can our readers follow you online?

Renel Kiriakos: My website is the best way. I also have an IMDb page and am on Instagram and YouTube.