ACTOR ALEKS PAUNOVIC ON: ART, ALWAYS SAYING YES + HIS UNIQUE APPROACH AT AMPLIFYING RESOURCES FOR MENTAL HEALTH!

AS TOLD TO: COREY GUEVARRA

PHOTOGRAPHY: BEN COPE

WARDROBE STYLIST: JULES WOOD

With over 20 years in the industry, Canadian born actor Aleks Paunovic has brought a mix of strength and depth to both action-packed shows and dramatic roles alike. You might recognize him from Van Helsing or The 100, Snowpiercer or Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency [just to name a few]. No matter the role, Paunovic seamlessly transitions between genres, showcasing his ability to embody a wide range of characters who often are as layered as they are powerful. We got a chance to catch up with the actor/ entrepreneur, talking everything from always saying ‘yes’ to his socially conscious swing at sustainable drinking water!

ALEKS, WHAT WAS EARLY LIFE LIKE FOR YOU & HOW DID CREATIVITY & ACTING SHOW UP ON YOUR RADAR?

I’m from a city called Winnipeg in Manitoba, Canada. Spent a lot of time there with the most amazing people from my hometown. I played in a band with my high school friends for years touring the country. Those were some of the best times of my life. One day, a casting director came to see our band and after the show she asked me if I would audition for a film. I’m very much a "yes" kinda dude. I like to try new things and figure out if I like it. Plus, I’ve always been into acting, just never pursued it because the band was my focus. Then I auditioned and booked the role. Walking onto set for the first time in my life, I fell in love with the process of making movies.

WHAT MANTRA OR PHILOSOPHY DO YOU LIVE BY THAT HELPS GUIDE YOUR DECISIONS AND ACTIONS?

Great question. I actually just mentioned it [lol]. One thing I live by is: just say "yes". If it scares me: YES. If it doesn’t make sense: YES. I want to find out the answer to life’s questions by action! I can’t predict the future so I can’t know how anything will work out. My mind may say “not really interested” but my gut will almost always say “just try it, you might love it.” So for me the word 'yes' is one of the most powerful words in my vocabulary. I’ve had so many great experiences from saying yes that I would’ve never had if I listened to fear or insecurity or the idea of embarrassment. Just say yes and go for it!

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT FOR YOU TO USE YOUR PLATFORM TO ADVOCATE FOR CAUSES YOU BELIEVE IN, AND HOW DO YOU APPROACH THAT?

I think having a platform that people can connect to is a gift. There are things in my life that I just want to share with people. Boxing is a huge part of my life not only for staying healthy and working out, but also for facing fears. Boxing has also helped me in acting, it’s helped me learn to relax in high pressure situations. I’m also an advocate for mental health awareness. People may look at me as this big 6’5 actor that’s famous, but I also have my insecurities. I have my struggles. No one is an island. Everyone has something that they are working through. If I share that on my platform, it may allow others to know they’re not alone and find support as well.

IF YOU COULD INDULGE IN ANY LUXURY EXPERIENCE WITHOUT LIMITS, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

I really love this question because the fact that I’m talking to you right now is a result of being an actor in a collaborative, creative team within the film industry. It’s an incredible privilege to have the chance to create meaningful things through art, hopefully reaching someone in some special way. I feel so blessed and fortunate to be in this position—it’s a luxury, really. I enjoy every single moment of it, even though it’s far from easy. The truth is, most filmmakers, like myself, are constantly striving to make art, and very few of us actually get to pull it off. Making a movie is no small feat, and I have deep respect for anyone who manages to do it. For me, the greatest luxury is being able to continue making art at the highest level that I can.

HOW HAS YOUR PERSPECTIVE ON SUCCESS EVOLVED THROUGHOUT YOUR CAREER?

I think, at the start, it was definitely about the fame. Not so much the money, but the feeling of being admired for your work. When I was young, I had an encounter with a celebrity that really stuck with me. All he did was look at me and give me a simple wink, as if to say, “I see you.” That moment stayed with me, even though it was probably just a fleeting gesture for him. So now, I feel incredibly lucky not just to be able to inspire others with my work, but also to realize that it’s more than just fame. What truly matters is the joy of doing something I love, alongside people who share that passion—people who have empathy, a love for life, and a creative spirit. Fame is great, but for me, the real reward is collaborating with amazing people and making art.

WHAT IGNITED YOUR JOURNEY HAVING FITNESS (& SUBSEQUENTLY WELLNESS) BE SUCH A KEY PART OF YOUR ENTIRE LIFE?

I’ve always been an athletic person. I competed at a high-level of amateur boxing. I got that from my dad and my grandfather and my brother [who was one of the healthiest guys when I was growing up]! Fitness and health has been a huge part of my career. It’s something that I love to keep on top of. I’m also co-owner of a canned water company called ‘Legend’. Seeing so many plastic bottles on set ignited me into having another option while making movies. Having Canadian mountain spring water alkaline at 8pH in a sexy looking can is something that I’m very proud of and fortunate to be a part of, while doing it with some amazing people. Also, on our Legend can, we have a QR code that directs you to a suicide crisis hotline and rehab facilities around the country. Like I said earlier, we all struggle with something, none of us are an island and I want people to know that there is help out there if ever they need it. If even one person uses that QR code and reaches out for help, it’s a win!

WHAT’S ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’D GIVE YOUR 26-YEAR-OLD SELF?

Be fearless. Don’t let other people's insecurities judge you and tell you to take the safe route just because fear stopped THEM from living their dream! Live YOUR dream. You’re gonna be OK”!!

ANY CURRENT OR UPCOMING PROJECTS WE SHOULD LOOK OUT FOR ALEKS?

Hostile Takeover starring Michael Jai White. What a badass actor and also one of the kindest humans out there. This one is going to be a fun ride. And there’s a couple more I wish I can talk about. Maaan I’m bursting at the seams to tell you but I contractually can't just yet. Next time we talk I’ll tell you everything ;-)