Finnish actors born in 1980
Here are 7 famous actors from Finland were born in 1980:
Harri J. Rantala
Harri J. Rantala (October 2, 1980 Nurmo-) a.k.a. Harri Rantala or Harri Jaakko Rantala is a Finnish film director, actor, screenwriter, film editor and film producer.
He started his career in filmmaking as an assistant director in the early 2000s, before directing his first feature film, "Backwood Philosopher" in 2010. The film won several awards at international film festivals and was praised for its poetic and philosophical themes.
Since then, Rantala has directed and produced several other feature films, including "Nurmi - Running for Happiness" (2016), a documentary about Finnish running legend Paavo Nurmi, and "The Punk Syndrome" (2012), a documentary about a Finnish punk rock band made up of musicians with disabilities.
Aside from filmmaking, Rantala is also a well-respected actor in Finland. He has appeared in several films, TV series, and theatre productions, and has been nominated for several awards for his performances.
In addition to his work in entertainment, Rantala is also a committed environmental activist and has used his platform as a filmmaker to raise awareness about climate change and sustainable living.
Rantala is known for his artistic and individualistic approach to filmmaking, often incorporating dreamlike imagery and non-linear storytelling into his work. He is also recognized for his collaborative approach to filmmaking, often working closely with actors and other crew members to develop and execute his vision. In 2015, Rantala was awarded the prestigious Jussi Award for Best Documentary Film for "Nurmi - Running for Happiness". He has also been nominated for several other Jussi Awards and has won multiple awards at international film festivals. As an environmental activist, Rantala has participated in several protests and campaigns to promote sustainable living and combat climate change. He is a vocal advocate for renewable energy and sustainable transportation and has worked with several organizations to raise awareness about these issues. With his dynamic career and commitment to social and environmental causes, Rantala continues to make an impact both in the entertainment industry and beyond.
Rantala was born and raised in Nurmo, a small town in western Finland. He showed an interest in art and storytelling from a young age, and as a teenager, he started experimenting with filmmaking with his friends. After graduating from high school, he attended the Tampere University of Applied Sciences to study film and television production. During his studies, he worked on several student films and gained experience in various aspects of filmmaking.
After completing his degree, Rantala moved to Helsinki to pursue a career in the film industry. He started as an assistant director and worked his way up, learning the ropes of filmmaking and developing his own style. In 2010, he made his directorial debut with "Backwood Philosopher", a hauntingly beautiful film about a reclusive philosopher who lives in the wilderness. The film was well-received by critics and audiences alike and established Rantala as a rising star in Finnish cinema.
Since then, Rantala has directed and produced a wide range of films, from intimate character dramas to thought-provoking documentaries. His film "The Punk Syndrome" was a breakthrough success, winning the Audience Award at the SXSW Film Festival and garnering international acclaim. The film brought attention to the issues faced by people with disabilities in the arts, and also highlighted the power of music to connect people from different backgrounds.
In addition to his work in film, Rantala is also an accomplished stage actor. He has performed in numerous productions at the Finnish National Theatre and other renowned theatres in Finland. He has received critical acclaim for his performances, particularly for his portrayal of complicated, nuanced characters.
Throughout his career, Rantala has remained committed to using his art to raise awareness about important social and environmental issues. He has been involved in various organizations and campaigns, and has been a vocal advocate for sustainable living and renewable energy. He is a true visionary in the film industry, and his work continues to inspire and engage audiences around the world.
Jasper Pääkkönen
Jasper Pääkkönen (July 15, 1980 Helsinki-) a.k.a. Jasper Paakkonen is a Finnish actor.
He is best known for his role as Halfdan the Black in the historical drama series Vikings. Pääkkönen began his acting career at the age of seven and has since appeared in over 30 films in his home country of Finland. In addition to his acting career, he is also a passionate environmentalist and social activist, having served as an ambassador for WWF Finland and worked with various human rights organizations. Pääkkönen is fluent in multiple languages and has also dabbled in directing and producing, with his short film, "Above Dark Waters," winning several awards at international film festivals.
Pääkkönen comes from a family of actors and performers. His mother is a Finnish actor/director and his father is a musician. As a child, he took part in his parent's plays and in different performances before starting his own acting career. Pääkkönen is also known for his work outside Finland. He appeared in "BlacKkKlansman," a Spike Lee film that was met with critical acclaim and won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival. He has also acted in Italian, Chinese, and German productions. In 2021, Pääkkönen was cast in the television series, "Halo," based on the popular video game franchise. In addition, he has a recurring role in the American crime thriller series, "Gangs of London." Despite his success and international recognition, Pääkkönen has remained grounded and continues to support causes close to his heart, including climate change and the rights of indigenous people.
Pääkkönen was born and raised in Helsinki, where he attended the Theatre School for Children and Youth. At the age of 11, he landed his first major role in a Finnish film. He continued to act throughout his teenage years and studied theater at the Helsinki Upper Secondary School of Performing Arts. After completing his studies, he went on to star in a number of successful Finnish films, including "Heartbeats" and "Frozen Land."
In addition to his film and television work, Pääkkönen is also a stage actor and has performed in a number of theater productions in Finland. He is particularly known for his work in Shakespearean plays, having played roles in productions of "Hamlet," "Macbeth," and "Othello."
Pääkkönen's activism on behalf of human rights and environmental issues has led to him being named one of Finland's most influential people. He has worked with organizations such as Amnesty International, the United Nations Development Programme, and the Indigenous People's Rights Program. In 2013, he was appointed as an ambassador for WWF Finland, where he has worked to promote climate change awareness and the protection of endangered species.
Despite his busy schedule, Pääkkönen makes time for his personal life, which includes his love of outdoor activities such as skiing and hiking. He is also an accomplished musician and plays guitar and bass in a Finnish band called The Pansies.
Eero Milonoff
Eero Milonoff (May 1, 1980 Helsinki-) also known as Käkä is a Finnish actor.
He gained international recognition for his performance in the film "The Happiest Day in the Life of Olli Mäki" (2016), which won the Un Certain Regard prize at the Cannes Film Festival. Milonoff has also worked extensively in theatre, receiving critical acclaim for his roles in productions such as "Midsummer Night's Dream" and "The Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny". In addition to his acting career, Milonoff is also a musician, having performed with the Finnish alternative rock band, Irina. He is known for his versatile acting skills and his ability to bring depth and emotion to his characters.
Prior to his breakthrough role in "The Happiest Day in the Life of Olli Mäki," Milonoff had already established a solid reputation in Finland's film and television industry. He has appeared in numerous Finnish productions, including the TV series "Bordertown" and the films "Le Havre" and "Reunion".
Milonoff has received several awards for his acting, including a Jussi Award (the Finnish equivalent of an Oscar) for Best Supporting Actor in 2016 for his performance in the film "Jättiläinen" (Giant). He was also nominated for the same award in 2019 for his role in "Dogs Don't Wear Pants".
In addition to his work as an actor and musician, Milonoff is also actively involved in social and environmental issues. He has spoken out in support of LGBTQ+ rights and has used his platform to raise awareness about climate change.
Milonoff was born into a family of artists. His mother, Titta Jokinen, is a theater director and his father, Jukka Milonoff, is a musician and actor. His older brother, Hannu Milonoff, is also an actor. Growing up in a creative household, Milonoff developed a love for the performing arts from an early age. He attended the Theatre Academy Helsinki, where he studied acting and graduated in 2006.
Milonoff's talent as an actor is widely recognized both in Finland and abroad. He has been praised for his ability to inhabit complex characters, often bringing an intense emotional depth to his performances. Milonoff has also been noted for his physicality, which he uses to great effect in his roles.
In addition to his work in film, television, and theater, Milonoff has also worked as a voice actor, lending his voice to animated films and television shows. He has also appeared in music videos for Finnish musicians and has collaborated with artists on various multimedia projects.
Despite his successes, Milonoff remains grounded and committed to his craft. In interviews, he has spoken about the importance of taking risks as an actor and the need to constantly challenge oneself in order to grow as an artist.
Kasimir Pennanen
Kasimir Pennanen (May 22, 1980-March 26, 2006 Finland) also known as Kasimir Oskar Alarik Pennanen was a Finnish actor.
Born in Helsinki, Finland, Kasimir Pennanen was known for his exceptional talent and versatile acting skills. He graduated from the Theatre Academy Helsinki where he trained to be an actor. He had a notable career in the Finnish film and television industry, and starred in multiple film productions such as "Pelicanman" (2004) and "Kahlekuningas" (2002), for which he received critical acclaim.
Pennanen was known for his dedication to his craft and his passion for theater. He was awarded the Jussi Award for Best Supporting Actor in 2005 for his performance in the Finnish film "Pelikaanimies" (Pelicanman). Unfortunately, his promising career ended tragically when he passed away in a car accident on March 26, 2006 at the age of 25. Despite his brief career, he left an indelible mark on Finnish cinema and is remembered as a talented actor with a bright future.
In addition to his film work, Kasimir Pennanen was also a talented stage actor who performed in several theater productions throughout his career. He was a member of the KOM theatre in Helsinki and performed in plays such as "Hamlet" and "Equus". He was also known for his work as a voice actor, providing the Finnish dubbing for several popular films including "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire" and "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe".
Before pursuing acting, Pennanen was an accomplished athlete and even competed in the Finnish National Junior Championships in javelin throwing. He was also an avid musician and wrote and performed his own music.
Pennanen's tragic death was a shock to the Finnish film and theater community, and he was mourned by colleagues and fans alike. In honor of his memory, the Kasimir Pennanen Foundation was established in Finland to provide support for aspiring actors and artists.
Pennanen was also known for his activism and humanitarian work. He was a vocal advocate for animal welfare and worked with organizations such as the Finnish Animal Welfare Association and the World Wildlife Fund. He also volunteered with organizations that provided aid for refugees and those affected by poverty and conflict in war-torn areas.Loved by many for his kind and gentle nature, Pennanen was remembered as a humble and genuine person who always put others before himself. His legacy lives on not only through his acting and art but also through his compassionate and philanthropic work.
Jukka Hilden
Jukka Hilden (August 3, 1980 Seinäjoki-) also known as Jukka Dudeson, The Dudesons, Extreme Duutsonit or Jukka Hildén is a Finnish tv personality, screenwriter and actor.
He is best known as one of the members of the Finnish stunt group, The Dudesons. Jukka has appeared in several comedy movies and TV shows, both in Finland and internationally. He also had his own TV show, "Jukka's Box" which aired on MTV3 in Finland. Aside from his career in entertainment, Jukka is also a motivational speaker who promotes a positive and active lifestyle. He has competed in endurance races and held multiple Guinness World Records for stunts such as being dragged behind a car at high speeds. In recent years, Jukka has focused on creating content for his YouTube channel, which has over 1 million subscribers.
Jukka Hilden was born in Seinäjoki, Finland, and grew up in a family of six siblings. He met his future The Dudesons co-stars, Jarno Laasala, HP Parviainen, and Jarppi Leppälä, while studying at the University of Industrial Arts in Helsinki. Together, they created a YouTube channel in 2006, which quickly gained popularity and led to their own TV show, "The Dudesons", airing in Finland and the United States.
Aside from his work in entertainment, Jukka is also an entrepreneur and owns several businesses, including a production company and a gym. He is passionate about fitness and has developed his own workout program, Duudsonit Activity, which combines physical exercise with elements of entertainment and comedy.
Jukka is also involved in various charitable organizations, including the Finnish Association for Mental Health and Save The Children. In 2013, he climbed Mount Kilimanjaro to raise awareness for children suffering from cancer.
Despite his fame, Jukka is known for his down-to-earth and approachable personality. He often interacts with his fans on social media and has been praised for his positive influence on young people.
Jukka Hilden has had a successful career in the entertainment industry, starring in movies such as "Body of Water" and "The Dudeson Movie," and television shows like "Ultimate Expedition" and "Duudsonit tuli taloon." He has also made appearances on various talk shows and reality TV shows, including "Dancing on Ice" and "The Steve-O Show." In addition to his entertainment work, Jukka has also written several books, including "Duudsonit elämänpeli" and "Live Like the King." He is a regular contributor to various Finnish magazines and newspapers, where he writes about fitness, health, and motivation. Jukka's commitment to a healthy and active lifestyle is evident in his philanthropic efforts as well. In 2014, he organized a charity event called "Duudsonit tuli taloon -tempaus," which raised money for children with cancer. He has also participated in several humanitarian missions around the world, including visits to Syrian refugee camps and an orphanage in India. Despite his busy schedule, Jukka remains dedicated to his family, including his wife Outi Haapasalmi and their two children. He enjoys spending time with them at their home in Helsinki, where they often engage in outdoor activities like camping and skiing.
Joonas Saartamo
Joonas Saartamo (May 6, 1980 Helsinki-) also known as Jonde, Alarik, Alaric, Alaric Saartamo or Jonde Saartamo is a Finnish actor and musician.
He graduated from the Theatre Academy in Helsinki in 2008 and has since acted in several movies, TV shows and theatre productions. Saartamo's breakthrough role was in the 2010 film "Paha Perhe" where he played the lead role of Jukka. He has also starred in other films such as "Matti: Hell Is for Heroes" and "The Eternal Road". In addition to his acting career, Saartamo is also a musician and has been a member of various bands such as This Empty Flow, Rinneradio and Magenta Skycode.
Saartamo was born in Helsinki, Finland and attended the Helsinki Upper Secondary School of Visual Arts before studying acting at the Theatre Academy in Helsinki. After graduating, he began his acting career on stage, performing in various theatre productions.
Aside from his acting and musical careers, Saartamo is also known for his charity work. In 2013, he participated in the "Kilometrikisa" cycling challenge, which raises funds for charity organizations. Saartamo has also supported environmental causes and was involved in the "Helsinki Challenge" campaign to promote the use of bicycles as a means of transportation.
Saartamo is considered one of Finland's most talented actors and has been nominated for several awards for his acting performances. He is known for his versatility and ability to portray a wide range of characters on screen and on stage.
Saartamo has also made a name for himself internationally with his role in the Finnish-German movie "The Eternal Road", which was premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2017. He received critical acclaim for his portrayal of the lead character, Jussi Ketola, in the film. Saartamo's musical talents have also gained recognition in Finland's music scene. He has released several albums with his band Magenta Skycode and their single "Hands Burn" was a hit on Finnish radio. In 2016, Saartamo released his first solo album "Jonde". In addition to his work in film, television and music, Saartamo has also voiced characters in animated television series and movies. His voice can be heard in the Finnish versions of popular shows such as "Bob's Burgers" and "South Park". Saartamo has expressed a desire to continue exploring different artistic mediums and to challenge himself as an artist.
Illi
Illi (March 22, 1980 Helsinki-) also known as Aleksi Juhani Sariola or Aleksi Sariola is a Finnish actor, singer and television presenter.
He started his career as a young actor in the Finnish National Theatre and has since appeared in numerous films, television shows and stage productions. Some of his notable works include the films Jade Warrior (2006), Road North (2012) and The Violin Player (2018). He has also made appearances in popular television shows such as Putous, Taskumuro and talent show Idols. As a singer, he has released multiple albums and singles including his debut album "Sinä ja Minä" which was a chart-topping success in Finland. In addition to his successful career in the entertainment industry, Sariola is also known for his philanthropic work, particularly with children's charities.
Sariola was born and raised in Helsinki, Finland. He developed a passion for acting and music from a young age and pursued both disciplines throughout his life. He graduated from the Theatre Academy Helsinki where he studied acting and later, in 2012, received a Master's degree in communications from Helsinki University.
Apart from his successful career in entertainment and his philanthropy work, Sariola has also been an advocate for environmental causes. He is known for his efforts to raise awareness about climate change and has participated in a number of environmental campaigns in Finland.
Sariola has also been recognized for his contributions to the arts and entertainment industry. He has received several nominations and awards, including the "Best Actor" award in the Finnish National Film Awards (Jussi Awards) for his role in the film "Road North" in 2013. In 2016, he was awarded the "National Actor Award" by the Finnish Actor's Guild, recognizing his significant contributions to the field of acting in Finland.
Today, Sariola continues to act, sing and present shows on Finnish television. He also remains committed to his philanthropy work and advocacy for environmental causes.
In addition to his successful career in acting and singing, Illi has also ventured into the world of fashion. He has collaborated with several fashion brands in Finland and launched his own clothing line in 2019. The line incorporates his love for sustainability and features eco-friendly materials.
Illi is also a strong advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken about his own experiences with depression and anxiety. He has been open about seeking help and encourages others to do the same.
In his personal life, Illi is married with two children. He and his wife have been together for over a decade and often share glimpses of their family life on their social media accounts. Despite his busy schedule, Illi prioritizes spending time with his loved ones and enjoying hobbies such as playing guitar and golfing.