Einar Haraldsson, born on July 9, 1955, in Reykjavík, Iceland, has carved a unique path from law enforcement to the silver screen. With a Danish mother and Icelandic father, Einar’s multicultural upbringing enriched his perspective, laying a foundation for his diverse career.
In 1974, Einar embarked on a journey with the Icelandic Police Academy, culminating in his graduation in 1976. He dedicated nearly two decades to the police force, serving from 1974 to 1993. During this period, he held the position of Secretary General for the International Police Association (IPA) Iceland Section between 1976 and 1982. His tenure facilitated international collaborations, including a notable six-week stint with the Los Angeles Police Department in 1977, where he interacted with officers who also served as bodyguards for celebrities. This experience offered Einar a glimpse into the world of entertainment, planting seeds for his future endeavors.
A pivotal moment in Einar’s life was his acquaintance with actress Sandra Bullock. Their friendship spanned a decade, during which Bullock encouraged Einar to explore acting, recognizing his potential to share compelling stories. Inspired by her support, Einar transitioned to acting full-time in 2019, enrolling in acting classes and immersing himself in the craft. 
Einar’s filmography is diverse, reflecting his versatility as an actor. He has appeared in Icelandic films and TV series, as well as international projects. Notably, he featured in “Black Crab” (2022) and “Operation Blood Hunt” (2024). His role as Burt Taylor in the Swiss action-thriller “No Time to Think” earned him the Best Actor award at the Munich Hall of Honour in 2024.  
Einar’s journey from a dedicated police officer to an award-winning actor exemplifies his adaptability and passion for storytelling. His multicultural background and diverse experiences continue to inform his performances, making him a distinctive presence in the film industry.
Interview with Einar Haraldsson
What inspires your creativity, and how do you stay motivated to produce new work?
People inspire me—their contradictions, resilience, flaws, and quiet moments. I’m always drawn to characters who feel like they’re hiding something just under the surface. Staying motivated comes naturally when I’m exploring stories that matter. Projects like No Time to Think, an action/thriller directed by Angelo Borer, really pushed me to grow and explore new dynamics in storytelling.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that significantly impacted your artistic direction?
There was a turning point during one of my earlier Icelandic roles that left a lasting mark. The emotional vulnerability required stripped everything back for me. It was the first time I felt I truly became the character rather than performing him. That experience shifted how I approach my work—and it’s one of the reasons I was drawn to upcoming films like The Tenebras 2: Timelines, by Martin Manuel Nuza. They offer rich, layered characters that invite deep emotional exploration.
Who are some artists or influencers that inspire you, and why?
Daniel Day-Lewis and Viola Davis have always been major inspirations. Their emotional truth on screen is just undeniable. I’m also inspired by directors like Martin Manuel Nuza, who take creative risks and tell bold stories. And of course, I carry a lot of love for the Icelandic film and TV scene—it’s rooted in realism, with a poetic edge that really speaks to me.
Can you walk us through your creative process when developing a new project?
It always starts with the script. I read it multiple times—first just to absorb the world, then to break down the character. I build a full internal life for that person, even beyond what’s on the page. When working on No Time to Think, that preparation helped me tap into the intensity and emotional drive of the role. With Timelines, I’m taking a more introspective approach, since the character operates in a more complex, shifting reality. Each project calls for a different kind of emotional access.
What advice would you give to emerging artists looking to make a name for themselves in the industry?
Be yourself, unapologetically. That’s what people remember. Keep learning, stay open, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes—that’s where the growth happens. Some of my most meaningful experiences have come from smaller Icelandic projects that weren’t about fame or visibility—they were about truth. Trust the process and surround yourself with people who believe in your voice.
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