Born in Staten Island, New York, Idris Veliu is poised to make a significant mark in the entertainment industry with his compelling performances. He will soon appear in the thriller/horror film “The Dead Place,” where he plays Isaac Stecker, a high school senior grappling with bullying and haunted by malevolent spirits. This role challenges him to explore the darker aspects of youth, revealing a violent side he never knew existed.
Idris’s journey into acting began at the age of sixteen, inspired by his passion for storytelling and the transformative power of film. He reflects on how a movie can transport viewers to another world, allowing them to escape reality, if only temporarily. His commitment to acting solidified when he booked his first role in a small New York project. Initially feeling out of place in his costume, everything changed when he was unexpectedly given a line. The pivotal moment came when the camera started rolling, and the director called for action, igniting his profound appreciation for the entire filmmaking process.
Idris has demonstrated his acting abilities across various television series and films. He appeared in “Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens,” sharing the screen with the talented Awkwafina, and in the hit series “Power,” featuring 50 Cent. Currently, he portrays Piper in the BBC sitcom “Happy Hours.” To prepare for this role, Idris worked diligently with a dialect coach to authentically capture the essence of a character from South London. Lacking detailed background information, he took the initiative to create Piper’s backstory, allowing him to portray the character more naturally.
“The Dead Place” holds personal significance for Idris, as it addresses central themes of bullying and feeling unheard. While reading the script, he felt a strong connection to Isaac’s struggles, understanding the loneliness and despair that can accompany adolescence. This connection allowed Idris to immerse himself in the character, delivering an authentic portrayal of Isaac’s emotional journey. The character faces numerous challenges, including bullying, family issues, and supernatural encounters that reveal his internal conflicts.
In addition to his acting endeavors, Idris has established himself as a model and brand ambassador in the fashion world. He has represented brands like Particle’s Cologne, Gravite, and NOA Collective’s swimwear line. His presence has graced runways for esteemed designers during New York and DC Fashion Weeks. Balancing his commitments in acting and modeling requires careful scheduling and organization, as Idris strives to maintain equilibrium amid the demands of both industries.
Cohen Entertainment manages Idris and works with GTK PR Agency for his public relations needs, further solidifying his presence in the industry. The pressures associated with public life can be daunting, especially in today’s social media landscape, where opinions can be harsh and widespread. Idris acknowledges these challenges but credits his strong support network for helping him manage the often-overwhelming aspects of fame. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on his journey and accomplishments rather than succumbing to the noise of external comparisons.
Looking ahead, Idris is keen to explore more emotionally charged roles, particularly in action films and dramas. He admires actors such as Denzel Washington, Gerard Butler, and Mel Gibson for their impactful performances and hopes to reach a similar level of artistry in his career. His ambition is clear: he aims to discover a unique path while remaining true to himself.
Idris is also aware of the changing dynamics within the entertainment industry, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. The shift toward online auditions presents both opportunities and challenges for actors. Nevertheless, he remains adaptable and committed to his craft, ready to embrace any changes that come his way.
As Idris Veliu prepares for the release of “The Dead Place” and anticipates future projects, he is excited about what lies ahead. With a growing body of work and a steadfast dedication to his craft, Idris is a notable figure to watch in both film and fashion, poised to make a lasting impact on audiences and industry professionals alike. His journey is just beginning, and the future holds great potential for his continued development in the entertainment world.
You can follow Idris on his following social media
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/idris_veliu/ (536K Following)
IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12557108/