Kat Harlton
Photos provided via PR agency
Teen actor Niko Ceci is starring in the new highly anticipated series I Woke Up A Vampire airing now on the Family Channel and set to stream on Netflix later in 2023.
I Woke Up A Vampire follows 13-year-old half-human, half-vampire Carmie’s journey of self-discovery as she navigates school, deals with a vampire hunter, and even takes part in a musical. The series addresses the challenge of hiding who you are versus wanting to be seen.
In the show, Niko portrays Kev, a smart and serious comic book geek who is Carmie‘s best friend. Kev has a quirky sense of humour and he is a caring friend. He worries about Carmie, who he feels could be haunted due to the fact that she is half-vampire. Kev is a bit of a loner but he is comfortable with himself and he is sure of his beliefs.
Niko can also be seen starring in part two of the first season of the hit sci-fi anthology series Circuit Breakers premiering on Apple TV+ in 2023.
I had the opportunity to chat with Niko about his role, what he’s learned along the way and what’s next.
Kat: You currently portray Kev Gardiner, a smart and serious comic book geek who is Carmie’s best friend in the new highly anticipated series I Woke Up A Vampire airing now on the Family Channel and set to stream on Netflix later in 2023, how did you prepare for the role? Did you find any similarities between yourself and your character Kev?
Niko: I prepared for the role of Kev by writing in a journal as Kev. I wrote my reaction to scenes happening in the script based on the character traits and description given to me in the character breakdown. These journal entries really helped me dive deep into who Kev truly is and why he reacts the way he does in certain situations. Me and Kev are both very hard working teens. If Kev wants something he is not going to stop until he achieves it. I feel I am the same way. If I put my mind to something I will not back down until I achieve it, especially when it comes to things I am passionate about like the arts.
Kat: Was there anything about your role that was particularly challenging?
Niko: Playing the role of Kev definitely came with some challenges. Kev has many sides to him. Funny, smart, suspicious, adventurous and more. Being able to find the balance to know when to bring out each emotion/side was challenging at times. Making sure to stay true to how Kev would feel in the situation was key.
Kat: What were some of your favorite scenes to shoot and why?
Niko: My favorite scenes to film were definitely the scenes filmed in the comic shop. There was something so nostalgic about the set. The comic book shop basement felt like my home. I felt it was very easy to act on that set because there were lots of props and visuals to react to. Plus it was just a very comfortable space that I got to share with the Collector, played by Kris Siddiqui, who I felt very comfortable and blessed to work with.
Kat: Is there a type of character that you’d like to portray, that you haven’t had the chance to yet?
Niko: I would absolutely love to get a role in a drama or horror movie. I love to push and grow in all aspects of my acting skills so I feel like working on a project that is slightly darker, more dramatic would force me to do that-to explore feelings, emotions not tapped into before.
Kat: What can we expect from you for the rest of 2023?
Niko: Besides I Woke Up A Vampire, I will be joining the cast of Circuit Breakers for Season 2. My character’s name is Felix and he is passionate about his lead role as captain of the band team. Felix can also be funny, but I cannot say too much about the episode or my role because no press has been released, however, I think audiences are going to love it.
You can also follow me at nikoceci.com to stay up-to-date on release dates and upcoming projects.