Actor
Alex Landi is a half Korean and half Italian actor born in New York City best known for his role as “Dr. Nico Kim” in ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy. He quickly became a fan favorite and garnered a lot of attention and praise for playing the first male surgeon of Asian descent as well as the first gay male surgeon in the medical drama series. Alex recently starred in Doja Cat & SZA’s “Kiss Me More” Music Video.
Where are you from?
Manhattan, New York City
Could you tell us a little more about your ethnic background?
Half Korean, half Italian
How’s your adorable puppy Ninja, and how’d you pick the name?
She is doing well. I thought Ninja is the cutest because she is the tiniest, non-threatening dog with the most aggressive name.
What are your favorite things to do when you’re not working?
I love to play tennis, go to the gym, and read at home.
Any favorite sports teams or athlete?
NY Jets, NY Mets, and Brooklyn Nets fan. My favorite athletes are Roger Federer and Lebron James.
What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?
I traveled to China and trained martial arts/weapons with one of the world’s best martial arts teams.
How did you get into acting?
I just made the switch and went for it! I always knew I wanted to be in entertainment; it was just a matter of when I was going to take the leap.
Were your parents supportive of this career choice?
Yes, my parents have been the super supportive. They are a huge backbone for me.
Congratulations on getting casted as Nico Kim on the iconic American drama series Grey’s Anatomy. How did this role come your way, and how did you feel when you found out you got the role?
I was ecstatic. I couldn’t believe it. I came to Los Angeles with just a backpack, and I ended up moving here the following week. Everything happened so fast. I am eternally grateful.
You are making a huge impact on the Asian community as they watch themselves being represented on screen. Does it make your career more rewarding knowing that Koreans and Asians are rooting for you?
Yes, I want to make all of us Asians look amazing on screen. I want to eliminate all prior stereotypes.
Did you face any challenges or ever feel like giving up?
It was definitely a very tough path for me. No one sees what it takes to get to this stage; they only see the result. I was rejected many times, but I persevered and weathered the storm. I knew it was only a matter of time. I was patient and here we are now.
If you created a vision board for yourself 5-10 years into the future, what would it look like?
I would hopefully be involved with Marvel and the James Bond franchise in some way.
What advice do you have for Asians and other minorities who want to pursue a career in the Entertainment industry?
We all only have one life to live. Make that one life count, and be who you always dreamed of being.
Follow Alex Landi on Instagram: @alexlandi7
