Meet Tiago Santos | Actor & Storyteller

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tiago Santos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tiago, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk-taking has always been a crucial part of my journey as an actor. As an artist, stepping into the unknown is often where growth and discovery happen. In theater, film, and TV, the roles that challenge me—whether they’re emotionally intense or physically demanding—are often the ones that push my boundaries and lead to the most rewarding experiences.

Taking risks for me isn’t about being reckless. It’s about trusting myself, trusting the process, and being open to vulnerability. In theater, where live performance can feel like walking a tightrope, the stakes are always high, and that element of uncertainty can be incredibly exhilarating. It’s not only about the risk of failure, but the risk of truly diving into a character and seeing where it takes you. Sometimes, those moments of stepping into the unknown become the most authentic and magical parts of the performance.

In my career, I’ve learned that risks don’t always pay off in immediate success, but they always lead to something valuable—whether it’s personal growth, new opportunities, or a deeper connection. I’ve taken risks with roles that were outside my comfort zone or with projects that were unconventional. And looking back, each risk has helped shape who I am as an artist, constantly refining my craft and expanding my creative horizon.

Ultimately, risk-taking for me is about embracing the uncertainty and trusting that, whether the outcome is a hit or a miss, it’s all part of the creative journey. It’s essential for staying inspired and continuing to evolve as an actor.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is all about storytelling, and what sets me apart is my dedication to fully embodying each character, exploring their complexities and humanity. I’m excited by roles that challenge me, whether on stage, in film, or TV, because each one offers new growth as an artist and as a person.

Getting to where I am has been a journey of persistence and learning. Rejection, doubt, and uncertainty have been constant companions, but each challenge has taught me resilience and the importance of trusting the process. The lessons I’ve learned are invaluable—embracing failure, staying open to learning, and never losing sight of why I do this work.

My brand is rooted in honesty, vulnerability, and the belief that art connects us all. I want my work to inspire, challenge, and spark meaningful conversations, while reminding people of the shared human experience. Through my work, I hope to create something that resonates deeply and leaves a lasting impact.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I could spend a week showing my best friend around, we’d start with a night at Gold Diggers for Very Good Mondays—where insanely talented musicians play some of the best live music in town. On Tuesday, we’d hit Malibu Beach and grab a lobster roll at Broadstreet Oysters. Wednesday would be our chill day: I’d cook for them, and we’d binge some anime or a show. Right now, I’m loving Love is War, Arcane, Severance, and White Lotus. Thursday, we’d explore the Huntington Beach Botanical Gardens, followed by a trip to the movies at Laemmle in North Hollywood—such a great theater. On Friday, we’d wake up early for a sunrise hike at Griffith Observatory, then grab coffee at one of my favorite spots—Amp Coffee and Rehearsal. They have an amazing staff and great brews, plus they have rooms to practice music or dance. Finally, Sunday would be our wind-down day: a BBQ and bonfire to wrap up the week and reflect on all the memories we made.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My friends and family are truly my pillars. They are a constant source of support, encouragement, and love, and they always help me stay grounded by reminding me of the progress I’ve made. A special shoutout goes to my High School Theater Director, Thom Babbes. He was the one who first ignited my passion for the craft, and his mentorship has been vital in shaping who I am—not only as an artist but as a person. Thom’s like a second father to me, and his wisdom is something I still turn to, especially when the road gets tough. The entertainment industry can be challenging, and it’s easy to get lost, but having people like Thom in my life always brings me back to what matters. It’s a beautiful reminder that we’re not alone on this journey and that community truly is everything. I am so thankful for everyone who’s been a part of my life and my career.

Instagram: @siago.tantos

Image Credits
Parker Burr
Paul Smith
Zak Shelby