Nicolas Maupas began his television career on the hit Italian TV series Mare Fuori (The Sea Beyond) in 2020. He has proven himself to be a legitimate performer starring in challenging projects like Nudes, directed by Laura Luchetti, highlighting sensitive topics young people face today, especially in social media. “We had a lot of fun filming Nudes, which is apparent when you see how all the characters vibed together so well. We tackled delicate issues such as revenge porn, an important topic in today’s society. The show’s intended purpose is to ensure awareness about the subject,” he says. In this exclusive interview, Nicolas reveals how the betterment of the world for future generations is a cause close to his heart.
Violeta Nicola __ When did you realize you wanted to be an actor?
Nicolas Maupas __ I always loved cinema; my mother often took me to the movies at a young age and I would regularly pretend to be the characters I saw on the big screen. My passion for the arts grew louder later in my teen years, and I began taking theater classes, and that’s where my journey into acting began.
Violeta __ You portray Vittorio on Nudes. Did you expect the show would be so successful?
Nicolas __ I just knew that the actors, our director, Laura Luchetti and the production staff, had given their all to Nudes. We had a lot of fun filming this project, which is apparent when you see how all the characters vibed together so well. We tackled delicate issues such as revenge porn, an important topic in today’s society. The show’s intended purpose is to ensure awareness about the subject.
Violeta __ You also starred as Simone in Un Professore (The Professor). How was your reaction when you got the part?
Nicolas __ There are no words to describe the experience. Our director Alessandro d’Alatri created a terrific team for this project. Playing Simone was challenging because I had to understand his actions and reactions, and finding his heart was a real journey. Also, working with Alessandro Gassman allowed me to learn a lot; I’m grateful for the advice he gave all of us.
Violeta __ How do you prepare for a role?
Nicolas __ I like to discover the character’s life; I sometimes lean on the script and write down how the character would react in different life situations. Other times, I try meditation to go deep into the character. I try to change my habits and use the character’s habits to get used to his movements and thinking.
Violeta __ Have you ever considered live theater?
Nicolas __ I started my career in theater, which is the essential foundation for good craftsmanship as an actor. I prefer to act in movies and TV shows, though. Cinema has its magic, but I may go back to theater when I get older.
Violeta __ If you could choose three actors you’d like to work beside, whom would they be and why?
Nicolas __ I admire many great actors like Mads Mikkelsen, Christoph Waltz, Matthew McConaughey, and others. I hope someday I can work and learn from influential names like these.
Violeta __ What do you like to do in your downtime?
Nicolas __ I like to draw, read and learn about my surroundings. I’m always looking for something new, a new artist to discover, or a new place to visit. I also like to allow myself moments of solitude. I enjoy silence very much. It allows me to think, look inside, reflect, and grow.
Violeta __ What advice have you gotten that has been invaluable to you and from whom?
Nicolas __ My parents told me never to give up or stop dreaming. They told me that when you have an idea or objective, be ready to change to make it happen.
Violeta __ What is one of your favorite shows, and why?
Nicolas __ I loved the Normal People series created by Sally Rooney, Alice Birch, Mark O’Rowe, Daisy Edgar-Jones, and Paul Mescal. It talks about the fragility of intimacy and those who dare and try to love. It’s remarkable how the characters show us that love needs balance, care, respect, and devotion. The show displays how human feelings are as powerful as fragile all at the same time.
Violeta __ There are significant changes the world is going through. How do you keep informed? Do you have any messages that you’d like to share?
Nicolas __ I am still learning. I read the newspapers, and I observe people. I do not feel ready to give advice; instead, I’d say let’s listen more and judge less. It would be nice to see how our fears are the same fears of others, as well as our hopes and ambitions. Living in peace should be a no-brainer. Greed, envy, and selfishness are diseases of the soul. We should help each other a little more.
Violeta __ Do you have any cause that is important to you?
Nicolas __ I think the future of our generation can be considered a cause. I see a great opportunity for redemption in us, especially young people. We can change this world for the better and understand how to do good to others and the planet.
Violeta __ What are your plans for this year?
Nicolas __ I would like to visit Tibet and read more books than I did last year.
Violeta __ Do you have any new projects you are working on.
Nicolas __ This year I will be on a set of a new movie. I am very excited what life has in store for me, and I can’t wait to start this journey. I hope I can tell you the specifics soon, but the best is yet to come!
Photography Alan Gelati, Styling Samanta Pardini, Interview Violeta Nicola, Groomer Matteo Bartolini using (Balmain Paris Hair Couture, Hanacure, and Hair Rituel by Sisley), Styling Assistant Elena Brozzi, Press Agency Mpunto Comunicazione, Talent Nicolas Maupas.