In the ever-evolving world of entertainment, Stephen Manas emerges as a versatile and dynamic artist, leaving an indelible mark across multiple creative domains. Born with a passion for the arts, Manas embarked on his journey in the world of cinema with his debut role in the movie "Ma premiere fois," under the skilled direction of Marie-Castille Mention-Schaar. This marked the inception of a promising career that would traverse continents and genres.
During his time in Paris, Manas graced the screens of esteemed French television channels such as TF1, TMC, and M6, honing his acting prowess while pursuing his studies. Fate took a serendipitous turn when an Indian talent agency extended an enticing three-year contract, beckoning him to India. Immersed in the vibrant tapestry of Bollywood, Manas added to his acting repertoire, embracing diverse roles and narratives.
After traversing the cinematic landscapes of Bollywood, Mumbai, Manila, and Tokyo, Manas returned to his roots in France in 2018, where he showcased his exceptional talent in the short film "Out of Frame/Hors Champ," garnering accolades and recognition.
In a pivotal moment at the Cannes Film Festival in 2019, Manas crossed paths with an agent specialising in international casting, setting the stage for his remarkable journey. He soon graced the screens of Apple TV+ as Richard Montlaur in the hit series "Ted Lasso," joining an ensemble cast alongside renowned actors like Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham, and others.
Beyond the realm of acting, Manas's artistic spectrum extends to music. His musical odyssey commenced at the tender age of eight when he first picked up the clarinet. Over the years, he transitioned to the saxophone, piano, and guitar, showcasing his multifaceted musical talent. By 2016, he began composing music, culminating in the establishment of his own musical production, Sound-it, by 2020.
Stephen Manas has an enduring passion for Greece, a land of ancient wonders and timeless beauty. His heart resonates with its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Through his unwavering love for Greece, he seeks to explore, celebrate, and share the essence of this enchanting Mediterranean gem with the world.
Greek City Times sits down with the talented actor to learn more about his life.
Your journey in the entertainment industry spans multiple countries, from India to the United Kingdom. How did these diverse cultural experiences influence your approach to acting?
Well, obviously, it teaches you how to approach different people and cultures. Whether you're working as an actor for a movie or a similar project, the dynamics can vary significantly depending on the location where you're shooting. The expectations are obviously different. The working methods, lifestyles, and modes of communication differ as well, and I'm not just referring to language. The entire process of achieving a goal varies from production to production. So, you can imagine that different countries or continents offer very distinct experiences, especially India, Tokyo, and even Hollywood, America. I guess it taught me how to adapt quickly because in this industry, time is precious, and you need to seamlessly integrate into a diverse ensemble to achieve your objectives as a group.
Your role as Richard Montlaur in "Ted Lasso" has gained a lot of popularity. What drew you to this character, and how do you relate to him?
This character felt like an extension of myself. I had the privilege of working in a comedy with incredibly talented actors and a captivating storyline. Portraying French culture in the series was enjoyable and came naturally to me. At times, I had the freedom to improvise lines, with the writers encouraging me to infuse humour into the character. I relate to him on many levels, although not necessarily in terms of bringing a pretty girl along or prioritising "buddy time".
The "Ted Lasso" series has a unique blend of comedy and heartwarming moments. How do you navigate the balance between these two elements in your performance?
When you have leaders like Jason and Hana who set the energy tone, you simply follow their lead rather than attempting to outdo yourself. It's relatively easy to go with the flow and the energy they bring to the set. Their guidance and direction on set are so effective that overthinking becomes unnecessary. You just focus on your role as an actor, feel the vibe, respond to the directions given, and engage with your surroundings to stay in sync with the production.
It is mentioned that you were watching "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone," which inspired you to pursue a career in the film industry. Can you elaborate on the specific aspects of the film that resonated with you?
I didn't focus on specific aspects, but rather, it was the entire concept of a regular young boy embarking on a magical journey that resonated with me. The movie's journey was both expected and beautiful, and it made me believe in the incredible possibilities that the film industry could offer. Additionally, the film's beautiful music and the evident effort put into its production left a profound impression on me. I was 11 years old when the movie was released, just like Daniel Radcliffe, and I might have dreamt about being a wizard, but why not pursue a career as an actor if it's achievable?
Music seems to be another significant passion of yours. How do you find synergy between your acting career and your musical pursuits?
While acting always takes precedence, I do find time for my music, whether it's composing or exploring new projects. Both acting and music are creative endeavours, and they complement each other well. Balancing the two isn't too challenging.
Your educational background includes international marketing and communication. How have these skills complemented your acting career, especially in terms of self-promotion and networking?
Indeed, I completed five years of education in marketing and management, and those skills have been beneficial in understanding how to approach markets, studios, and connect with clients. However, it's important to note that the film industry is distinct, and interpersonal dynamics differ significantly. It's not purely a business endeavour; I interact with casting directors, which has a unique atmosphere. Nevertheless, my background in marketing helped me make informed decisions about beginning my career in Asia.
Making the transition from the business world to acting is a bold move. What were the pivotal moments that convinced you to fully commit to an acting career?
I was working in LA DEFENSE in an office, and realised that what I truly wanted was a change of scenery. I remember asking my manager if I could transfer to another office abroad to fulfil my wanderlust. She said, 'Yes, of course, we have many offices around the world, and you can go wherever you want in 2 to 3 years.' However, a few days later, I had a realisation: this wasn't the path for me. I needed something different. That's when I decided to fully commit to acting and embrace the adventure it offered.
Your proficiency in various instruments and music composition is impressive. How does your musical background contribute to your creative process as an actor?
It's difficult to quantify the exact influence, but perhaps my musical background has made it easier for me to memorise lines, given my experience in memorising music. However, the two fields are quite different. Music is precise, with detailed instructions on how to play, tempo, and energy levels. While I've dabbled in jazz and improvisation, I primarily focused on classical music. Acting, in many ways, shares some similarities but doesn't require being a musician to excel.
Looking ahead, can you give us insights into your future plans? Are there any particular genres, roles, or collaborations you're eager to explore in your acting journey?
I don't have a concrete plan for the future. I'll simply do my best and savor each moment. I don't have specific objectives, so I remain open to any opportunities that come my way.
Have you ever been to Greece? What are your feelings about the country?
I've visited Greece numerous times, often on family vacations since I was 12. It's a beautiful country that I hold dear. I have a deep appreciation for the food, the weather, the warm-hearted people, and, of course, the stunning beaches. It's one of my favourite destinations, especially during the summer.
