Chris Santos’ journey from Long Island to Hollywood is nothing short of cinematic. Born one of five children, Chris first stepped in front of the camera at just 12, appearing in Rob Weiss’s Amongst Friends. But it was his unique path into Steven Soderbergh’s world that truly set him apart.

Originally a personal trainer in New York, Chris consulted on Soderbergh’s The Girlfriend Experience—a film centered on a high-end escort, Chelsea (Sasha Grey), and her boyfriend, Chris. So authentic was Chris’ presence that writer David Levien and Soderbergh decided to cast him as the lead. This breakout role didn’t just put Chris on the map—it ignited a lifelong passion for acting. Since then, he has refined his craft through master classes with Hollywood heavyweights like Ivana Chubbuck, Deborah Aquila, Lesly Kahn, and Margie Haber. Along the way, he’s shared the screen with legends like Betty White.

Chris returned to the festival circuit in Soderbergh-produced Perfect, a psychological sci-fi thriller directed by Eddie Alcazar and scored by Flying Lotus. Co-starring Abbie Cornish and Martin Sensmeier, the film explores a mysterious clinic where patients radically transform their bodies and minds—an intense, thought-provoking ride that cements Chris’ status as a versatile actor.

Adding to his growing portfolio, Chris stars opposite Katherine Castro in the romantic, beautifully shot Someday, a story of fleeting connection during a 14-hour flight from Sydney to Los Angeles.

When he’s not acting or writing, Chris indulges his love of fitness, Thai boxing, and Brazilian jujitsu. And, just for fun, he jokes that he’d make a “friendly vampire muppet”—a hint at his playful personality behind the scenes.

In our chat, Chris shares his experiences working with Soderbergh, the joys and challenges of his diverse roles, and how his personal journey shaped his professional path. For anyone curious about Hollywood from a unique, authentic perspective, this interview is a must-watch.

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