International Award-winning Actor
Federico Ancillai (born 1990) is an Italian actor, director, and producer based in Johannesburg, South Africa, and Rome, Italy. An international award-winning performer, Ancillai is recognized as the first Italian actor to secure a role in South African television, specifically within an Afrikaans-language production. His career spans significant film and television projects across both Italy and South Africa, earning him international nominations and accolades.
Not only the first Italian actor but also the first Italian to work in a South African television commercial.
Primary Industry/Category: Art, Entertainment
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa and Rome Italy
Consent for Collaborations: Yes
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in Rome, Italy, Ancillai was immersed in the world of cinema from a young age. His family worked extensively in the entertainment industry, exposing him to legendary film sets and figures such as Federico Fellini and Sergio Leone, as well as international stars like Matt Damon, Heath Ledger, and Hilary Swank.
Initially pursuing a professional career in soccer, Ancillai left home at age 15 to train competitively. A significant injury at age 21 forced him to retire from the sport, leading him to rediscover his innate connection to storytelling. He subsequently enrolled in and graduated from a professional acting academy in Italy, holding a high school diploma.
Career
Early Career in Italy
Following his training, Ancillai quickly transitioned into acting, securing his first role at his very first audition. He built a robust portfolio in Italian theatre, television, and film, working on projects such as the television series Il Peccato and Furore, and the film Anima.
Transition to South African Cinema
In 2019, while attending a film festival in Amsterdam where one of his films was nominated, Ancillai planned a vacation to South Africa. Captivated by the country’s culture and creative energy, he made the decision to relocate. “I fell in love with the country instantly,” he stated. “The cultures, the energy, the creative possibilities, it all felt like the right place to be.”
Upon settling in Johannesburg, he navigated the challenges of establishing himself in a new industry, eventually founding his own production company. His perseverance led to the creation of a documentary addressing critical social issues, which was selected for screening at the prestigious Joburg Film Festival.
Breakthrough and Historic Achievement
Ancillai achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Italian actor to appear on South African television, specifically in the popular Afrikaans-language soap opera Binnelanders, where he played the role of Marco. This ground-breaking achievement marked a new chapter in cross-cultural collaboration within the South African entertainment industry. He described the experience as “the best experience,” citing the high level of professionalism on set.
Artistic Philosophy
Ancillai often draws parallels between his athletic and artistic disciplines, emphasizing professionalism, perseverance, and the courage to reinvent oneself. “You can always start again in life,” he has said. “The most important thing is to remain professional and give your best in everything you do.”
Filmography
* Binnelanders | Marco (Actor) | TV Series | First Italian actor in South African TV
* Il Peccato | (Actor) | TV Series | Italian Production
* Furore | (Actor) | TV Series | Italian Production
* Anima | (Actor) | Film | Italian Production
* Little Broken Bodies | (Actor) | Film | International Production
Awards and Recognition
* International Award-Winning Actor (specific awards to be listed as provided).
* Official Selection, Joburg Film Festival (2024) for documentary work.
* Official Nomination, Amsterdam Film Festival (2019).
* Historic achievement as the first Italian actor to perform in South African television.
Follow Federico
News/Media/Agent Contact Person: Eye Media Artist brian@eyemediaartists.com
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