Actor Anton Antoniadis has lived a life shaped by movement, culture, and curiosity. Born in Moscow to a Greek family, raised in Spain, educated in the British school system, and trained in Los Angeles, Anton is a truly international artist whose background has become one of his greatest strengths. In a recent conversation with Pop Culture Unplugged, he opened up about his multicultural identity, the unexpected beginnings of his acting career, and his role as Paul in the hit Spanish series La Ruta.
A Multicultural Life That Defies One-Word Answers
When asked where he’s from, Anton laughs—because there’s no simple answer.
He was born in Russia, raised in a Greek household, grew up in Spain, attended a British school, and later pursued acting in the United States.
“People ask me, ‘Where are you from?’ and I always give a long answer. I can’t answer that in one sentence… all of those cultures shaped my identity and how I navigate the world.”
He credits Russian hospitality, Spanish upbringing, and Greek roots as equally important parts of who he is.
The Accidental Beginning: A Role That Found Him
Surprisingly, Anton didn’t grow up around theater or art. He was more of a sports kid and never imagined himself on a stage. That changed in high school when a classmate dropped out of a musical—Moulin Rouge—and teachers asked him to step in.
“I don’t even know why I said yes… but I did. I sang, danced, acted for the first time in my life. And I loved it.”
The performance won the school competition, and the seed was planted. Years later, feeling unfulfilled while studying business, Anton remembered that moment and returned to acting with a new sense of purpose.
American Academy of Dramatic Arts: A Leap of Faith
Anton’s journey eventually brought him to Los Angeles, where he enrolled in a summer acting course at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. That experience became a turning point.
“They encouraged me to audition for the full-time program… I didn’t expect it, but I got in and even received a scholarship.”
He finished his degree, moved to the U.S., and committed fully to the craft.
Working With Pedro Almodóvar, Julianne Moore & John Turturro
One of the biggest highlights of Anton’s career so far is appearing in Pedro Almodóvar’s English-language short film The Room Next Door, opposite Julianne Moore and John Turturro.
“I walked on set and Julianne Moore was there… It was surreal. A dream come true.”
Even though he didn’t initially book the first role he auditioned for, the filmmakers brought him back for another part—a moment he describes as “a real gift.”
Simply watching the veteran actors on set became its own masterclass.
Becoming Paul in La Ruta: A Special Connection
Anton’s most personal project to date is the Spanish series La Ruta, where he plays Paul, a character inspired by a real cultural figure connected to Spain’s iconic club scene of the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s.
“Playing someone based on a real person was fascinating… especially someone involved in a culture and music scene that came before me but influenced how I grew up.”
He called La Ruta one of his favorite projects, noting that the series’ unique structure—standalone seasons with original stories—made the experience even more creatively fulfilling.
What’s Next: New Projects & A Spanish Netflix Series
Anton is currently in the audition phase for upcoming roles, but he does have one project on the horizon: a Spanish Netflix biopic centered on legendary singer Raphael.
“I have a part in that, and I’m excited for people to see it next year.”
He continues to work between Spain and international markets, aiming to build more bridges with U.S. productions in the future.
Closing Thoughts
Anton’s journey is a testament to openness—open to cultures, open to unexpected opportunities, open to evolution. From a last-minute role in Moulin Rouge to working with Almodóvar and starring in La Ruta, he’s forging a career that reflects his global background and genuine artistic curiosity.