Famous Bulgarian Film & Theater Personalities

Maria Bakalova is a Bulgarian actress known for her versatile roles in film productions. She gained international recognition for her performance in the 2020 film Borat Subsequent Moviefilm, earning accolades such as a Critics' Choice Award and nominations for prestigious awards like the Academy Award and BAFTA Award. Bakalova began her career in Bulgarian cinema, showcasing her talent in dramatic roles in various films. She has since expanded her repertoire to include diverse genres and even lent her voice to a character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Stanislav Ianevski is a Bulgarian actor known for his role as Viktor Krum in the 2005 film Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. He lived in England and Israel before pursuing acting. Despite not having acting aspirations, he was discovered by a casting director and cast as Viktor Krum after attending an acting workshop. He also appeared in Hostel: Part II. With a successful career spanning various roles, Ianevski has established himself as a talented and versatile actor in the entertainment industry.

Julian Kostov is a versatile Bulgarian actor, filmmaker, and talent manager with a diverse range of roles in film and television. He gained recognition for his recurring role in the popular Netflix series Shadow and Bone, as well as for his portrayal of Vladimir Makarov in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III. Kostov has further showcased his talent through recurring roles in A Discovery of Witches and Berlin Station, along with notable performances in films like Another Mother's Son, The Toxic Avenger, and The Last Front.

Hristo Shopov is a highly acclaimed Bulgarian actor known for his versatile performances in various Bulgarian and international film productions. He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Pontius Pilate in Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ, a role he reprised in The Inquiry. With a successful career spanning over three decades, Shopov has showcased his talent in a wide range of films, establishing himself as one of Bulgaria's most prominent actors. His dedication to his craft and ability to bring depth to his characters have solidified his reputation as a skilled performer.

Luis Enríquez Bacalov was an accomplished film composer known for his work in Spaghetti Western films and collaborations with Italian progressive rock bands. He was nominated twice for the Academy Award for Best Original Score and won in 1996 for his work on Il Postino. Bacalov also composed significant pieces for chorus and orchestra. He served as the artistic director of the Orchestra della Magna Grecia in Taranto, Italy, further establishing his reputation as a prominent figure in the world of music composition for film and orchestral settings.

Dimiter D. Marinov, also known as Dimitar Marinov, is a Bulgarian-American actor known for his role in the award-winning film Green Book. In 2019, he made history as the first Bulgarian actor to walk the prestigious red carpet at the 91st Academy Awards. Marinov gained recognition for his supporting role in the movie, which went on to win Best Picture. His performance showcased his talent and versatility as an actor, earning him praise from audiences and critics alike.

Stoyanka Mutafova was a renowned Bulgarian actress known for her exceptional contributions to both theater and film. With over 53 theatrical plays and 25 films under her belt, she earned the nicknames "Ms. Natural Disaster" and "The Queen of Bulgarian Comedy." She was recognized for her impressive career longevity and was an applicant for a Guinness World Record. Even in her later years, she continued to perform internationally, showcasing her talent in various countries and captivating audiences with her remarkable skills.

Zahari Baharov is a talented Bulgarian actor recognized for his compelling performances in various film and television projects. He gained critical acclaim for his role as Moth in the 2008 film "Zift," showcasing his versatility and skill as an actor. Baharov further solidified his reputation with his portrayal of Ivo Andonov in the popular BNT series "Undercover" from 2011 to 2016. Additionally, he made a memorable appearance as Loboda in the renowned HBO series "Game of Thrones" in 2015, demonstrating his range and ability to bring characters to life on screen.

Dilyana Popova is a Bulgarian actress and model known for her work in various films and TV series. She studied modelling design at New Bulgarian University and gained recognition for her appearance in the Bulgarian version of Playboy magazine in 2010. Popova has showcased her talent in projects such as the film Love.net, the film series Glass Home, and the drama and romantic series Revolutcia Z. She has also been involved in theatre productions and continues to pursue her passion for acting.

Nevena Kokanova was a prominent Bulgarian film actress recognized for her outstanding contributions to the cinema industry. She earned the title of the "first lady of Bulgarian cinema" due to her remarkable performances and significant influence on the film scene. Kokanova's talent and dedication to her craft garnered her widespread acclaim, establishing her as a respected figure in Bulgarian cinema. Throughout her career, she portrayed a diverse range of characters, showcasing her versatility and skill as an actress, leaving a lasting impact on the film industry.

Anjela Nedyalkova is a Bulgarian actress known for her work in film and television. She has appeared in various projects showcasing her versatile acting skills. Nedyalkova has taken on a range of roles, displaying her talent and dedication to her craft. With her captivating performances, she has garnered praise from audiences and critics alike. Nedyalkova continues to make a mark in the entertainment industry with her compelling portrayals and commitment to her art.

Andrea, known by her stage name, is a prominent Bulgarian pop-folk singer, songwriter, and video director. She gained recognition as part of the renowned group Sahara, collaborating with producer Costi Ioniță on the hit song "I Wanna" featuring Shaggy and Bob Sinclar. The track achieved international success, topping charts in Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland. Andrea continues to establish herself as a versatile artist, known for her captivating performances and creative contributions to the music industry.

Konstantin Trendafilov is a multi-talented Bulgarian professional known for his work in various creative fields. He gained recognition as a runner-up on Big Brother season 10 and currently serves as a creative director at advertising firm Saatchi & Saatchi Sofia. Additionally, he is a writer, musician, and reality star under the name Papi Hans. Trendafilov has published poetry collections and novels, showcasing his diverse creative abilities. His online presence, particularly on Instagram, reflects his passion for photography and his appreciation for finer details such as jasmine tea.

Yanita Yancheva rose to fame in 2008 as a contestant on Survivor Bulgaria, later returning for the show's fifth season. She is a brand ambassador for Body Engineers and is known for her success as a fitness model and personal trainer. With over 1.8 million followers on Instagram, Yanita has built a strong online presence. She has a popular YouTube channel and has collaborated with renowned bodybuilder Lazar Angelov in creating fitness content. Yanita Yancheva's professional life is marked by her achievements in the fitness industry and her influential online presence.

Zlatka Raykova is a Bulgarian reality TV star, model, and entrepreneur known for her appearances on Big Brother Bulgaria All-Stars. She gained recognition in 2007 by winning the Miss Playmate beauty pageant. Raykova launched her fashion label, Bless, offering a range of clothing items. With a significant Instagram following, she shares modeling photos and promotes her brand. In a relationship with former national football player Blagoy Georgiev, she has appeared on the show alongside fellow contestant Emanuela Tsvetkova.

Bashar Rahal is a talented Bulgarian actor known for his versatile performances across various mediums. With a career spanning several years, he has demonstrated his skills in portraying a wide range of characters in film, television, and theater. Rahal's dedication to his craft and ability to bring depth and authenticity to his roles have earned him recognition within the entertainment industry. His commitment to excellence and passion for storytelling continue to solidify his reputation as a respected and accomplished actor.

Raicho Vasilev is a Bulgarian stuntman and actor recognized for his portrayal of Gladiator Gnaeus in the TV series Spartacus: Blood and Sand and its prequel Spartacus: Gods of the Arena. With a background in stunt work, Vasilev has showcased his skills in various action-packed scenes, earning acclaim for his performances. His role as Gladiator Gnaeus has solidified his reputation in the industry, establishing him as a talented and versatile professional known for his contributions to the entertainment world.

Stefan Danailov was a prominent Bulgarian actor and former Minister of Culture of Bulgaria. He began his acting career at a young age in the film The Traces Remain and later graduated from VITIZ (the Bulgarian Theatre Academy). His most notable role was Major Deyanov in the series На всеки километър (At Each Kilometer). Danailov garnered acclaim for his work in numerous films and plays, earning several awards throughout his career. He also served as a professor at the Theatre Academy in Sofia for two decades.

Julian Emilianov Vergov is a Bulgarian actor known for his work in theatre, film, and television. He made his acting debut on stage before transitioning to film, appearing in various Bulgarian films and also in Hollywood productions. Vergov gained recognition for his roles in popular drama series like Glass Home and Stolen Life. With a diverse acting career spanning both local and international projects, he has showcased his talent in a range of genres from drama to action films, earning him a reputable standing in the industry.

Ivaylo Zahariev is a prominent Bulgarian actor recognized for his portrayal of the undercover cop Martin in the widely acclaimed BNT 1 series Pod Prikritie, which garnered international success by being sold in 184 territories across 3 continents. Beyond his acting career, Ivaylo is known for his active involvement in various charitable causes, including addictions prevention, advocacy for the deaf community, children's and youth rights, marriage protection, and promotion of Christian values. His professional life reflects a dedication to both his craft and philanthropic endeavors.

Valentin Ganev is a versatile Bulgarian theatre and film actor as well as a skilled theatre director. With a successful career spanning several decades, he has honed his craft and garnered acclaim for his performances on stage and screen. Ganev is known for his talent in bringing characters to life with depth and authenticity, captivating audiences with his powerful portrayals. His work in both theatre and film showcases his passion for the arts and his dedication to his craft, making him a respected figure in the Bulgarian entertainment industry.

Naum Hristov Shopov was a prominent Bulgarian actor known for his impressive career spanning over five decades. He made a significant impact in the Bulgarian film industry, appearing in more than thirty films starting from 1960. His talent and dedication to his craft were evident in his diverse roles and memorable performances on screen. With his depth of skill and versatility, Naum Shopov left a lasting legacy in the world of Bulgarian cinema, inspiring future generations of actors.

Georgi Iliev Rusev was a renowned Bulgarian actor known for his mastery of "second plan roles." Over his four-decade career, he crafted a diverse gallery of colorful characters that captivated audiences. Rusev's talent and dedication to his craft earned him widespread recognition and fame within the acting community. His ability to bring depth and authenticity to his performances made him a respected figure in Bulgarian cinema and theater, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and earning him a place among the country's most celebrated actors.

Rosario Nadal is a Spanish consultant, art director, and former model. She has worked as an independent adviser to private art collectors and currently serves as the deputy director of the Colección Jumex. Nadal has a strong background in the fashion industry, having been a muse for Valentino. She is known for her expertise in the art world and her connections within the industry. Additionally, she holds a senior position in the Bulgarian royal family due to her past marriage to Prince Kyril of Preslav.

Edelweiss is a multi-talented individual with a diverse professional background. She is known for her work as an actress, TV host, and erotic model, having gained recognition in the entertainment industry. Additionally, she has experience as a former pornographic actress, showcasing her versatility in various roles. Currently based in Italy, Edelweiss continues to pursue her career in the media industry. Her creativity and talent have allowed her to establish herself as a prominent figure in the world of entertainment.

Yana Marinova is a talented Bulgarian actress known for her versatile performances across film, television, and theater. With a career spanning decades, she has established herself as a prominent figure in the Bulgarian entertainment industry. Marinova has portrayed a wide range of characters, showcasing her skill and versatility as an actress. Her dedication to her craft and ability to bring depth and authenticity to her roles have earned her critical acclaim and a strong fan following. Marinova continues to captivate audiences with her compelling performances and commitment to her art.

Filip Trifonov was a prominent Bulgarian actor known for his work in over thirty films since 1971. His most notable role was in the 1972 film The Boy Turns Man. Trifonov's career spanned several decades, during which he established himself as a talented and versatile performer in the Bulgarian film industry. His contributions to cinema were widely recognized, and he left a lasting impact on audiences and colleagues alike. Trifonov's dedication to his craft and his memorable performances solidified his legacy as a respected actor in Bulgarian cinema.

Samuel Finzi is a highly accomplished Bulgarian-German actor with a prolific career spanning over three decades. Beginning in the late 1980s, he has amassed an impressive body of work with hundreds of credits in film, television, and theater. His talent and dedication have been recognized with numerous awards, having received ten acting accolades between 1993 and 2011. Finzi's versatility and skill as a performer have solidified his reputation as a respected and celebrated figure in the entertainment industry.

Slavi Trifonov is a versatile Bulgarian entertainer known for his roles as a TV host, tambourine and viola player, singer, and politician. He is most prominent in the traditional Bulgarian folklore music genres, but has also explored other styles like hip-hop in collaboration with producer Yasen Subev, and pop-rock and punk with the band Ku-Ku. Trifonov has made significant contributions to various TV shows, including Slavi's Show, Exiles, Canaletto, and KU-KU, showcasing his talents across different entertainment platforms.

Poli Genova is a versatile Bulgarian artist known for her talents in singing, songwriting, acting, and presenting. She began her career in 1991 as part of a children's ensemble before representing Bulgaria at the Eurovision Song Contest twice. Genova achieved Bulgaria's second-highest Eurovision placement in 2016. In addition to her music career, she has taken on roles as a coach and mentor on popular Bulgarian talent shows, voiced characters in films, and hosted major events like the Junior Eurovision Song Contest.