Famous Armenian Film & Theater Personalities

Angela Sarafyan is an Armenian-American actress known for her work in television and film. She has appeared as a guest star in various television series and has showcased her talent in feature films such as Kabluey, On the Doll, A Beautiful Life, The Informers, A Good Old Fashioned Orgy, Lost & Found in Armenia, and Reminiscence. One of her notable roles includes portraying Clementine Pennyfeather in all four seasons of the HBO series Westworld. Sarafyan's versatile performances and dedication to her craft have solidified her as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Mike Connors was an accomplished American actor known for his iconic role as private detective Joe Mannix in the CBS television series Mannix from 1967 to 1975. He won a Golden Globe Award in 1970 and received six consecutive nominations, along with four Emmy nominations from 1970 to 1973 for his portrayal of Mannix. With a career spanning 56 years, Connors also starred in other TV series like Tightrope! and Today's FBI, as well as appearing in various films such as Sudden Fear, Stagecoach, and Too Scared to Scream, which he also produced.

Atom Egoyan is a Canadian filmmaker known for his exploration of themes such as alienation and isolation in his works. Emerging in the 1980s as part of the Toronto New Wave, Egoyan gained recognition with films like Exotica and The Sweet Hereafter. He is acclaimed for his non-linear storytelling techniques that evoke specific emotional responses by withholding key information. Egoyan's films often depict characters navigating interactions mediated by technology or power structures. His achievements include receiving Academy Award nominations and prestigious awards such as the Dan David Prize and the Governor General's Performing Arts Award.

Sergei Parajanov was a Soviet film director and screenwriter of Armenian descent. He studied at Moscow's VGIK under prominent filmmakers, before embarking on his professional career in 1954. Parajanov's innovative approach to filmmaking challenged the state-sanctioned socialist realism style prevalent in the Soviet Union. His works, such as "Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors" and "The Color of Pomegranates," garnered international acclaim and are considered among the greatest films ever made. Despite facing legal scrutiny and bans on his projects, Parajanov's artistic vision and contributions to cinema have been widely recognized and celebrated by critics, historians, and filmmakers.

Akim Tamiroff was an Armenian-American actor known for his prolific career in film, stage, and television during Hollywood's Golden Age. Despite his thick accent, Tamiroff appeared in over 80 motion pictures across 37 years. He was recognized for his talent with two Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor and won the first-ever Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor. Renowned for his performances in films like "The General Died at Dawn" and "For Whom the Bell Tolls," Tamiroff was highly regarded by his peers, including Orson Welles.

Val Avery, born Sebouh Der Abrahamian, was a prolific American character actor with a career spanning 50 years. He appeared in over 100 films and over 300 television episodes, showcasing his versatility and talent. Known for his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his roles, Avery became a familiar face in the entertainment industry. With a strong work ethic and dedication to his craft, he left a lasting impact on audiences and fellow actors alike through his memorable performances on screen.

Simon Abkarian is a versatile French-Armenian actor known for his work in theater, film, and television. He began his career in Paris, gaining recognition for his performances in plays by acclaimed playwrights such as Aeschylus and Hélène Cixous. Abkarian's talent caught the eye of filmmakers, leading to roles in various movies across genres, from dramas like "Beast on the Moon" to thrillers like "J'ai vu tuer Ben Barka." He has also showcased his acting skills on television, notably in the BBC series "Spooks" and the Canal+ show "Kaboul Kitchen." Abkarian's diverse roles and acclaimed performances have established him as a respected and sought-after actor in the industry.

Dan Janjigian has had a diverse professional career, starting as a bobsledder representing Armenia at the 2002 Winter Olympics. He later transitioned to acting, gaining recognition for his role as Chris-R in the cult film The Room in 2003. In addition to his athletic and acting pursuits, Janjigian has also delved into politics, running as a candidate for Texas's 31st congressional district in the 2020 elections. His varied experiences showcase his versatility and willingness to explore different career paths.

Rouben Mamoulian was an influential American film and theater director known for his innovative use of cinematic techniques. He directed sixteen films, including four musicals, and seventeen Broadway productions, six of which were musicals. Mamoulian's notable works include original stagings of popular musicals like Oklahoma! and Carousel, as well as the first production of George Gershwin's Porgy and Bess. He was praised for his use of camera mobility, montage, close-ups, split-screens, and dissolves, though his films often received more critical acclaim than commercial success.

Michael Badalucco is an accomplished American actor known for his diverse roles in film and television. He gained recognition with his screen debut in the iconic film "Raging Bull" and went on to feature in a wide range of movies, including "Desperately Seeking Susan," "Léon: The Professional," and "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" Badalucco's breakthrough came with his portrayal of attorney Jimmy Berlutti in the acclaimed TV series "The Practice," earning him a Primetime Emmy Award in 1999. His career showcases versatility and talent across various genres and platforms.

Armen Borisovich Dzhigarkhanyan was a highly acclaimed Soviet, Armenian, and Russian actor known for his prolific career on both stage and screen. Starting in Yerevan and later Moscow, he showcased his talent in numerous Armenian and Soviet films, gaining popularity in the 1970s with iconic roles in movies like The New Adventures of the Elusive Avengers and The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed. With over 250 appearances, Dzhigarkhanyan was celebrated as one of the most distinguished actors in Russian and Armenian cinema and theater.

Arpi Gabrielyan is a versatile Armenian professional who has made a mark as a presenter, model, singer, and actress. She gained recognition with the release of her debut music video in 2015. Arpi is known for her diverse talents and has portrayed various characters in popular television series, including Lika in Full House, Sara in Scotch & Whiskey, and Zara in Super Mother. Her contributions to the entertainment industry have showcased her versatility and skill across different forms of media.

Hayk Marutyan is a multi-talented Armenian professional known for his work as an actor, comedian, screenwriter, producer, and politician. He gained fame as part of the comedy duo "Hayko Mko" and co-produced popular shows like Kargin Haghordum and Kargin Serial. Marutyan later starred in comedy films and became actively involved in civic activism, supporting political movements and eventually serving as the mayor of Yerevan. He has been associated with various political parties and founded his own party, showcasing his commitment to public service and leadership.

Garik Martirosyan is a versatile entertainer known for his work as a comedian, TV host, actor, and singer. Based in Russia, he co-produces and hosts the popular Comedy Club Russia on TNT. He has also been a host on Channel One's Prozhektorperiskhilton. With a successful career in entertainment, Martirosyan has gained recognition for his comedic talent and engaging television presence, making him a prominent figure in Russian and Armenian media.

Aram Mp3, known for his stage name, is a versatile Armenian singer and comedian. He gained international recognition by representing Armenia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2014 with his song "Not Alone," earning the impressive 4th place. With his unique blend of music and humor, Aram Mp3 has captivated audiences with his performances. His talent and creativity have solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, showcasing his skills as a dynamic performer and entertainer.

Elena Vardanyan is a talented Armenian actress known for her diverse roles in both television and theater. She gained recognition for her portrayal of Koko in the popular TV series "Kargin Serial" and as Nelli Vardanovna in "Domino." With a strong on-screen presence and versatile acting skills, she has captivated audiences in various performances, including notable plays like "Stop" and "Everything is Selling." Elena Vardanyan continues to showcase her acting prowess and make a significant impact in the entertainment industry through her compelling performances.

Mihran Tsarukyan is a prominent Armenian singer and actor. He made his debut in the music industry with the release of his first music video in 2011. Tsarukyan gained recognition for his roles as Arsen in Full House and Gor in the Armenian TV series Hard Life. His talents have allowed him to establish a successful career in the entertainment industry, where he continues to captivate audiences with his singing and acting skills.

Nazeni Hovhannisyan is a versatile Armenian professional known for her work as an actress, presenter, and lecturer at the Yerevan State Institute of Theatre and Cinematography. She has showcased her talent in various movies, captivating audiences with her performances on the big screen. With a passion for the arts, she not only excels in her acting career but also imparts her knowledge and expertise to aspiring students as a lecturer. Nazeni Hovhannisyan's dedication to her craft and commitment to education highlight her impactful presence in the entertainment industry.

Sos Sargsyan was a highly regarded figure in the Armenian entertainment industry, known for his work as an actor, director, and writer. Throughout his career, he showcased his talents in various mediums, leaving a lasting impact on Armenian cinema and theater. Sargsyan's performances were praised for their depth and authenticity, earning him a reputation as a versatile and skilled artist. As a director, he brought innovative storytelling techniques to the screen, while his writing demonstrated a keen insight into human emotions and experiences.

Arthur Edmund Carewe, originally known as Hovsep Hovsepian, was an esteemed Armenian-American actor in the early 20th century. With a career spanning both stage and film, Carewe made significant contributions to the silent and early sound film industry. Known for his versatile performances and captivating presence, he established himself as a talented and respected figure in the entertainment world. His work showcased his dedication to the craft of acting, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and earning him a place among the notable performers of his time.

Yevgeny Vaganovich Petrosyan is a prominent Soviet–Russian comedian known for his influential work in the entertainment industry. He gained popularity as the host of the TV variety show Crooked Mirror and has been a beloved figure since the Soviet era. With a successful career spanning decades, Petrosyan has solidified his reputation as a talented and respected comedian. His contributions to comedy have made a lasting impact on Russian entertainment, earning him a significant place in the industry.

Roman Mitichyan is a versatile Armenian-American professional known for his contributions to the world of mixed martial arts, acting, and stunt work. He gained recognition through his appearance on The Ultimate Fighter: Team Hughes vs. Team Serra, showcasing his skills as a talented fighter. Despite being forced to leave the show due to injury, Mitichyan's determination and passion for his craft have solidified his reputation as a dedicated and skilled individual in the realms of MMA, acting, and stunt performance.

Armen Ohanian was a multi-talented Armenian professional known for her expertise in various fields. She excelled as a dancer, captivating audiences with her performances. As an actress, she brought characters to life on stage and screen with her skillful portrayals. Ohanian also showcased her literary talents as a writer, creating engaging works that resonated with readers. Additionally, she demonstrated her linguistic abilities as a translator, bridging the gap between different cultures through her work. Ohanian's professional life was marked by creativity, versatility, and dedication to her craft.

Grégoire Aslan was a versatile Swiss-Armenian actor and musician known for his impactful contributions to the entertainment industry. With a career spanning several decades, Aslan showcased his talent in various films, television shows, and stage productions. He portrayed a wide range of characters with depth and authenticity, earning acclaim for his performances. As an accomplished musician, he also enriched the artistic world with his musical abilities. Aslan's professional legacy is marked by his passion for storytelling and his dedication to his craft.

Emilia Zoryan is a multitalented Armenian-American actress, producer, and award-winning author. She is known for her work in film and television, showcasing her talents both in front of and behind the camera. Emilia's debut novel, Love and Other Sins, delves into themes such as complex family dynamics, immigration, child abuse, trauma, and first love, demonstrating her storytelling abilities and insight into human experiences. With a diverse range of skills and accomplishments, Emilia Zoryan continues to make a significant impact in the entertainment industry.

Aram Asatryan was an influential Armenian singer and songwriter, renowned for his contributions to Armenian pop and rabiz music. He was celebrated for his dynamic and lively performances, with his energetic concerts leaving a lasting impact on audiences. As the pioneer of the rabiz music genre, he solidified his place as the most popular rabiz singer in history. His professional career was marked by a dedication to his craft and a commitment to preserving and promoting Armenian musical traditions.

Stephanie is an American singer and actress of Armenian and Japanese descent signed with SME Records Japan, a part of Sony Music. She has released two albums: a self-titled debut in 2008 and Colors of my Voice in 2009. Her achievements include winning the Japanese Music Awards in 2007 and having her songs featured in various Japanese films. Stephanie has also appeared in notable Japanese films such as Pride and Tokyo Tribe. In 2015, she represented Armenia in the Eurovision Song Contest as part of the super group project Genealogy.