Kat Harlton
Actor and writer Vasilios Filippakis‘ brand new dramedy series FAK YAASS is set to make its premiere on OUTtv on June 17th.
The show follows the story of Nico Nicolakis and his big Greek family, including his homophobic grandfather, as they journey through accepting Nico no matter his sexuality.
The series shows the clash between old tradition and the new age, millennial Nico, played by Vasilios Filippakis, who struggles with the idea of returning home, where he’s always felt judged and unworthy. With the help of his friends, Anton and Torri, Nico’s heart begins to let his family in and his family starts to accept him for who he is, until a secret family scheme may ruin that forever.
We had the opportunity to chat with star Vasilios Filippakis about the inspiration for Fak Yaass, his role and the entertainment industry.
Kat: Can you tell us a little bit about your role in new dramedy series “FAK YAASS”?
Vasilios: I’d love too! I play the role of Nico Nicolakis, a gay Greek 24 year old who is living his live openly and freely in the big city. Nico is a struggling actor, working part time at H&M. He moved away from his small town to escape the narrow views of his family and experience life as a confident gay man in the city.
For the series as a whole, I am the creator/star/co-producer and assistant editor of “FAK YAASS”. Bulldog Production and Matthew McLaughlin produced and directed the show, Anthony Filangeri scripted the content and Leanne Noelle Smith is a co-star and producer.
Kat: What have you learned from sharing Nico’s story?
Vasilios: I learned that Nico’s story is one we can all relate too. At the end of the day his story is about how he navigates through his families ignorance regarding his sexuality. We all have been in situations or made life choices that weren’t fully backed by our immediate family. Nico is going through that struggle in “FAK YAASS”.
Kat: What do you hope the audience takes with them from the show?
Vasilios: I hope the audience after watching “FAK YAASS” leaves with a sense of pride and power in knowing you should never hide who you truly are. At the end of the day, love is love, we all just need to open to listen and practice empathy towards each-other.
Kat: Do you have any role models or mentors that you look to for inspiration?
Vasilios: “FAK YAASS” began as a way for me to share my personal story about the struggles I faced with my family and culture, much like Nia Vardalos with “My Big Fat Greek Wedding”. This project has been three years in the making and is based on true conversations and events that have happened to me with and between my family. Nina had paved the way for the Greek community to be seen and heard while exploring the Greek culture at that time. She has been an amazing inspiration for me and this project and I really do think she would love it.
Kat: Do you have any advice for others who are looking to act or work in the entertainment industry?
Vasilios: If you’re just starting, get into a class. Always be in class. Work on your craft. Commit yourself fully and do not give up when it gets hard. If you’re there – create your work. We are all unique and have a story to tell. Share it. Be authentic. Just be you.
For more on “FAK YAASS” follow us on social media @fakyaass , follow me @vasiliosf