Aleks Paunovic is a revered actor with a respected resume that spans over 20 years in the industry, He is recognizable from his roles in Snowpiercer, Marvel’s Hawkeye, Most Dangerous Game, Netflix’s Fubar, Van Helsing and many many others.
As Aleks prepares to bid farewell to his role as Bojan Boscovic in the final season of Snowpiercer, we caught up with him to chat about the upcoming series finale, his go-to products for maintaining his handsome good looks, and the Legend-ary way he’s advocating for mental wellness…
- You currently play Bojan Boscovic in Snowpiercer… What can you tell us about the upcoming series finale? Do you think fans will be satisfied with the ending?
What I can say is that if you think the last 3 seasons were a ride, this season really goes off the rails. No pun intended. Ok ok, pun intended. Fans are going to love how season 4 turned out. I know all of us are really proud of the work we did and the journey our characters were on. I feel fans are going to feel the same way.
- You’ve played some incredible characters, and have probably had to spend more time than you’d care to in the makeup chair for some of those roles… How important would you say the hair and makeup are when it comes to getting into character?
It’s essential. Hair and makeup informs the character so much. Especially when you, as the actor, get to collaborate with the team and combine your ideas and their vision together. When we get to come together and decide who the character is, it becomes more personal for me, and connects me to the character that much more. The character definitely becomes a part of me.. a part of my soul.
3. Given your history as an actor you seem to never age! Could you tell us about any tips or practices you follow that contribute to this youthful vitality?
Eating healthy and working out are necessities. I have an infrared sauna at home, and I live in Canada so cold plunges in running rivers are a part of my routine as well. But I think the biggest part is always surrounding myself with creative younger people as well as people my age who have youthful energy. I just love being surrounded by fearless curiosity. The way children are…staying curious and open is the key to a young heart.
- What products are currently in Aleks Paunovic’s toiletry bag?
Zo and SkinCeuticals. Zo Complexion Renewal Pads cleanse and exfoliate the skin at the same time and A.G.E Interrupter Advanced Face Cream keeps this big ol’ face hydrated.
5. You are also the co-founder of Legend Water, which just recently launched in Canada (and soon to hit the US). What can you tell us about the “Legend on Set” initiative and how does mental wellness factor into\ the brand?
I’ve been in the game for over 20 years and single use plastic is always on set. I get it, it’s easy and accessible, but I just wanted to see another option. Our team at LEGEND wanted to design a cool looking aluminum can that people would love to hold in their hand while also providing them with essential alkaline water. In just one week of drinking from a plastic bottle your body is ingesting the weight of a credit card in plastic. Think about that? That’s crazy. Also, it takes 3 times the volume of water to MAKE a plastic water bottle then it is to fill the bottle. Just blows me away. Sustainability is key for our bodies and our planet, and LEGEND is filling the gap. We just launched a month ago and people are really liking it. We also have a well known studio in Vancouver that made us their official water brand on set. We also have a mental health initiative called “ LEGENDS SUPPORTING LEGENDS”. Each can has a QR code that takes you to our website where free support and resources are provided, like the number for the suicide prevention hotline and a list of rehab facilities in Canada. I want to alleviate the stigma and encourage open conversation about mental health. We are not on an island. Everyone goes through difficult moments and is dealing with past trauma. All of us at LEGEND just want people to know we are out there and if one person can find help from our initiative, we will be happy just to start the conversation. Means a lot to our team that we can send a message that we all care about.
- What advice would you give to others in high-stress jobs who may be struggling with their own mental health?
Find people that you can talk to where you both can share your wins and struggles. Humanity is about connection. Humans are supposed to share with other humans. Find your people. There are also organizations that offer help, that can just be an ear to listen. Sometimes it’s just getting it off your chest and hearing it out loud. But definitely seek out professionals if it’s something that is overwhelming. Just know we all go through it. You’re not alone. I want to repeat that. You. Are. Not. Alone. Myself included. I have great people around me to help me through my low moments and remind me not to be ashamed of it. Give it tribute. If you don’t go through the bad times, you won’t know what the great times are all about. Humans are not perfect. Celebrate that. And find your peace.
- What’s next for Aleks Paunovic? Any exciting new roles you’re able to talk about?
Oh man! There are a few projects I wish I could talk about, but I can’t just yet. I will say there are some very cool things happening and I’m blessed to be a part of it. One I can talk about is Hostile Takeover directed by Markos Rounthwaite starring Michael Jai White, Aimee Stolte, Dawn Oliveri and Sala Baker. It’s a killer action movie! I play a pretty hilarious badass. I can’t wait for you guys to see it. It’s a special, fun movie! Thanks for hanging out and chatting with me!
Photo Credit: Photographer – Charles Zuckermann
