Atli Gunnarsson was recently interviewed by Famo Celebrity Magazine and below is the Q&A session we had with him.
Introduction – Can you tell us a bit about your yourself?
I am a trained actor. I have a BS (Hons) in Acting from Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts. I am also a professional voiceover artist. My day job is in customer service. I have always wanted to perform and I love making people laugh. It’s what makes me the happiest.
Personal Background – Can you share a little experience about your Upbringing and Early Life?
I was born in Iceland to Icelandic parents, but raised in Norway. I have lived in London for more than 20 years. I spoke Icelandic at home, Norwegian and school and learnt English from watching TV and films. I always wanted to work in the English language. That’s where the possibilities seemed. I dreamed of fame and fortune, like so many. Luckily, I found I didn’t need it.
Career and Achievements – What do you consider the Highlights of your Career so far?
I have always been a massive gamer and so getting to lend my voice to various video games has been a dream come true. I have recorded several audiobooks too. That’s always an honour. Some might say I peaked at doing the Icelandic in-flight announcements for EasyJet. I on the other hand would like to think that the highlights of my career are yet to come.
Challenges and Growth – What are some of the Challenges you’ve faced in your Career, and how did you Overcome them?
It has been a challenge being a non-british actor trying to make my way in the UK. Nordic roles are few and far between and over time you get type-cast. But if you embrace it, it can actually be quite rewarding. You carve your niche and take pride in your uniqueness. It’s not bad being the go-to guy for Viking based vocal work. On a more personal note, wavering self-belief has probably been my greatest obstacle.
Passions and Hobbies – What are your Interests and Hobbies outside of your Career?
Playing video games and streaming them on Twitch is something I’ve taken to over the last few years. However, my main love is cinema. It’s the reason I became an actor. Seeing my favourite actors on screen and thinking, “I could do that”. I’m also into exercise. I am a qualified level 3 Personal Trainer. I walk, run and do weights. I used to love swimming and have a diving and powerboat licence.
Milestones and Future Goals – What are some of the Milestones you hope to Achieve in the coming years?
I always said to myself, one of these days I’ll have a speaking part in a cinema release. Even if it’s a small one. I still hope to achieve that. The main goal would be to be able to live off my acting and performance work. Whatever shape that takes. I love comedy and I feel like if I never tried to do stand-up at some point I would end up regretting it.
Life Lessons – What is the most Valuable Lesson you’ve learned in your Life or Career?
That my success or lack thereof in my chosen field does not define me. I used to think that if I was not respected for my ability as an actor then I was a failure and had let myself down. That was a burden early on. In time I realised I did not need that to feel good about myself. I was complete without the need for recognition from others. If I do well in my chosen career, then great. If not, then that’s also alright too. I am still me.
Advice for Aspiring Artists – What advice would you give to Young Artists looking to make a Mark in the Industry?
It’s ok to fall out of love with it. If you find something else which piques your interest then you’re allowed to follow that. You did not fail. Life just took a different course. Try different things. Gain experience away from your chosen path. If and when you choose to follow your dream again, it will help you. I have not given up. I thought I had. Only by accepting that and letting go of it, did I find myself gradually drifting back to it. If it’s what you want to do, you will find a way for it to be a part of your life forever.
Rapid-Fire Round:
Favorite book or movie name?
Book: Down and Out in Paris and London by George Orwell / Movie: The original Star Wars trilogy, closely followed by Lord of the Rings trilogy.
One word to describe yourself?
Hopeful.
If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be?
Attila the Hun, so I could tell him the origin of my name comes from him. Then I’d retire early to bed.
Favorite travel destination?
South of France.
In the Last, what are your Social Media Platform Links?
Instagram Handle: @atligunnarsson
