In Conversation With Fast-Rising Teen Actor Niko Ceci

Niko Ceci is a fast-rising teen actor, dancer, and singer to watch from Toronto, Canada. Niko has had his sights on the entertainment industry since the young age of three when he would watch classics like Annie on repeat and dream of singing and dancing like Fred Astaire. He landed his first on-stage role at the age of six when he was cast as the young Michele in a drama production of the great classic Matrimonio all’Italiana. It was that experience that inspired Niko to continue chasing his passion for performing and eventually pursuing it as a career. We caught up with him to discuss his current projects.

Thank you for agreeing to catch up with Occhi Magazine. What drew you to an early career in film and television?

My parents used to show me classics like Annie and The Wizard of Oz. Watching the actors sing and dance made me truly happy, and I knew right away that that was what I wanted to do. At the young age of six, I told my parents I wanted to act, so when I was asked to be in a theater production, my parents said YES. I fell in love with the stage immediately and I have never looked back since saying my first line.

Who are your industry influencers?

My favorite actors of all time are Helena Bonham Carter and Tyler Perry. Helena Bonham Carter is such a diverse actor. She can play any role, evil, good, dramatic, etc.. When it comes to comedy, Tyler Perry is one of the funniest actors/directors of all time and I really enjoy his creativity and his humor.

Your first big break came starring as the voice for the musical and animal-loving Pablo in the remake of the popular animated series Clifford The Big Red Dog. Can you recall your experiences and expectations working on the project?

When I booked the role of “Pablo” I was very young. It was such a great experience because I got to work with kids older than me. I remember first walking into the audition and hearing the incredible voice of Jenna Weir, who voiced “Samantha.” It was so inspiring but also a little nerve-wracking because she was that good. Thankfully, she was the kindest and most welcoming co-star. Working on Clifford really made me realise that I love acting. Another reason this job is so memorable is because this project allowed me to get my dog. I made a deal with my parents that if I landed the role of Pablo I would get my very own puppy! Guess What?! Now I have a three-year-old silver lab named Willow.

You’ve amassed a significant body of work. Of your many roles, is there one you are most proud of, and if so, why?

I have been lucky enough to work in both animation and on-screen television. If I had to pick one character that I am most proud of, it would have to be my role as Kev on the Family Channel/Netflix series entitled I Woke Up A Vampire. I loved being able to work with so many talented actors, directors, and producers. I also really love watching and starring in Sci-Fi and action movies and tv shows which involve greenscreen and special effects/stunts. Being able to be on set to see how the movie magic happens was such an amazing experience.

Who would you like to work with and why?

If I could work with anyone on any show, it would be the show Wednesday. I love Tim Burton’s style, which is very unique and entertaining, just like his characters and I would love the opportunity to bring one of his characters to life. If I could work with any actor, it would be Helena Bonham Carter, which is very ironic because Helena and Tim are married! I also love Jenna Ortega, who plays “Wednesday” in the series Wednesday. I grew up watching Jenna on the Disney channel and I feel that she and Helena are versatile and inspiring actors as they can play very different characters.

 

Audiences can now see you in the new highly anticipated series I Woke Up A Vampire premiering on the Family Channel and on Netflix later in 2023. Please tell us more about the production, your role, and what audiences can expect.

I Woke Up A Vampire tells the story of a 13-year-old girl named Carmie Henley. On her 13th birthday Carmie starts to experience supernatural abilities. She is extremely fast and strong. Her comic book aficionado friend Kev helps her navigate through her new world of myths and monsters. Kev also helps Carmie navigate life as a normal 13-year-old.

He is a smart, funny, comic book-loving 13-year-old kid. He is an amazing friend and continues to support Carmie throughout her tween years and her discovery of her secret powers. I have had an absolute blast stepping into the role of Kev and I love many things about him. As I mentioned already, Kev is funny at times, but he can also be intense. He takes Carmie’s new challenge (becoming a vampling) very seriously and he uses his years of research and comic book knowledge to protect Carmie from potential enemies as she begins her supernatural life. I love playing these different sides of Kev and being able to pull from my life experiences in order to match the tone and theme of every episode. Audiences can expect to go on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. They can also expect an intriguing story that consists of many plot twists. They will meet exciting and relatable characters along the way, but above all our audience will be left wanting more at the end of each episode.

What draws you to a role, and what direction would you like your career to develop?

I love when characters are not identical to my personality because I like to step out of my comfort zone. Creating a character that is so different from me is one of the best parts of being an actor. I would absolutely love to book a drama or horror movie because I love to push the boundaries and grow in all areas of my acting skills. I would love to work on a project that is darker, more dramatic, at the same time I enjoy comedy as well. I would also like to continue to write. Writing is one of my passions especially since I find it extremely therapeutic. I like to create and share stories of my own and I would love to one day have one of my movies/TV series produced!

 What other projects are in the pipeline?

Circuit Breakers is a brand-new anthology series that premiered last fall. I am so thrilled to be joining the cast of Circuit Breakers for season two. I play the role of Felix. Felix is a funny and ambitious high school kid. Our episode had many plot twists and will keep you guessing. I cannot say too much since no press has been released, but you can stay up to date on release dates by following me on social media.

Where can our readers find out more about you?

Your readers can follow me for updates on Instagram @niko.ceci and on TikTok @officialnikoceci!

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