Check out our interview with Mexican born actor Alexis Sides who can be seen in the highly anticipated series, Paramount+ “Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies” releasing today! (April 6, 2023).
Alexis plays the iconic role of a T-Bird in the “Grease” prequel series, “Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies”. Alexis displays his comedic genius starring as ‘Pedro’ aka ‘Potato,’ a Mexican immigrant and high school student navigating the struggles of English as a second language, exploring his relationship with ‘Nancy’ (Tricia Fukuhara), and sharing his love of cars with his fellow T-Birds.
Follow Alexis @alexissides
Hi Alexis, please tell us a little about you?
I’m an actor with a passion for the arts that’s been burning bright since my days performing in school plays with Cabo San Lucas legends Henrry Lopez and Pepe Calderon. My latest adventure has seen me land the role of ‘Potato’ in Paramount+’s eagerly anticipated series, ‘Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies’. It’s an exciting opportunity that’s allowed me to showcase my skills as an actor, dancer, and singer.
My journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it. After finishing high school in Guadalajara, I made the bold decision to pursue my dreams and headed to Vancouver to attend the prestigious New Image College. Since then, I’ve auditioned for a range of projects – from musicals to voiceovers – but landing this role in ‘Grease’ is a dream come true.
When I’m not working on a script, you’ll find me on the soccer field or spending time with my loved ones. I’m eager to see what the future holds.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Loyal, blunt and hospitable
How did you get started into acting?
I discovered my love for acting when I was just in second grade. The school I attended in Cabo San Lucas used to organize school plays every summer as a thank you to the parents. The people who directed and produced the plays were Henrry Lopez and Pepe Calderon, respectively. I was cast as one of the 60 lost kids in their adaptation of Peter Pan. From then on, I continued to do school plays until 7th grade when I briefly stopped acting to follow another dream I had of becoming a professional soccer player as a goalkeeper.
How has this changed your life?
Although it is still early in my career, I am grateful for the opportunity to work on a project as exciting and highly anticipated as “Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies”. It has provided me with invaluable experience and allowed me to showcase my skills as an actor, singer, and dancer. I am confident that this experience will lead to more opportunities in the future, and I am excited to see where my career takes me next.
What is the best and worst part of being an actor?
Well, the worst part of being an actor is probably having to endure countless auditions and rejections before finally landing a role. But hey, at least all that practice makes for great material for a future stand-up comedy routine!
And the best part of being an actor? Getting paid to play make-believe and bring joy and entertainment to audiences around the world! Plus, you get to wear all sorts of fancy costumes and live out your wildest fantasies on stage or screen. It’s a pretty sweet gig if you ask me!
How do you prepare for a role?
As an actor, I believe that each role requires a unique approach and preparation. My process usually starts by carefully studying the script and the character’s backstory, motivations, and relationships. I like to immerse myself in the character’s world, understanding their personality, quirks, and mannerisms. I also do extensive research, such as reading books or articles, watching documentaries, or talking to people who have similar experiences or backgrounds to the character. Additionally, I practice different vocal and physical techniques to embody the character fully. I believe that preparation is key to delivering an authentic and convincing performance, and I always strive to give my best effort in every role. However, I also remain flexible and open to feedback from my director or fellow actors to improve my performance. Ultimately, my goal is to honor the character’s story and bring their emotions and experiences to life on screen or stage.
Tell us about your work in the highly anticipated series, Paramount+ “Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies?” And about your role as ‘Pedro’ aka ‘Potato?”
‘Pedro,’ aka ‘Potato’ is a member of the T-Birds, a group of high school boys, really into cars and girls. As the series unfolds, you see how we connect with each of the Pink Ladies in our own way. Working on this show has been an incredible experience and I feel honored to be part of such a talented cast and crew. The opportunity to bring the beloved Grease franchise to a new generation is exciting, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it. While my role as ‘Potato’ is a supporting one, he has some really fun scenes and is an important part of the story. It was amazing to work alongside renowned names like Annabel Oakes, Alethea Jones, Jamal Sims, Justin Tranter, and many other equally important people, who have contributed to creating a show that we are all proud of. I cannot wait for the audience to see the show and hopefully enjoy our fresh take on the Grease world.
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play and why?
As an actor, I’m drawn to roles that are challenging and require me to dig deep into the character’s psyche. I’m very interested in playing characters that are complex and have unique personalities. I enjoy portraying dramatic characters that may not necessarily fit into a typical mold or have a common attitude. These roles give me the opportunity to push myself as an actor and explore different aspects of human behavior. Ultimately, I’m open to exploring any role that speaks to me and allows me to connect with the character on a deeper level.
Can you name 3 actors/actresses you would love to work with?
There are so many talented performers in the industry that I admire and would love to work with. It’s hard to narrow it down to just three, but if I had to choose, I’d love to work with actors like Matthew McConaughey and Joaquin Phoenix, as they are incredibly talented and have a wide range of performances that always leave me in awe. Plus, they have had such versatile careers, from their early indie roles to blockbuster hits. Their performances inspired me to pursue a career in acting. They have a way of bringing their characters to life and creating memorable performances that stay with you long after the film or show is over. Although it’s a dream of mine to work with them, I know it’s important to stay grounded and focus on improving my craft. I’m always looking for opportunities to learn and grow as an actor, and I hope to one day be able to work alongside some of the industry’s greatest talents. I have also heard that Bad Bunny has recently ventured into acting, and I am intrigued to see what he can bring to the table. Working alongside these actors would be an amazing opportunity, and I am always looking to learn and grow as an actor.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
For me, the most rewarding part of being an actor is the ability to bring a character to life and connect with an audience on an emotional level. It’s an amazing feeling to see how a performance can impact people and make them feel something, whether it’s laughter, tears, or inspiration. Being able to tell stories and bring them to life in a way that touches people is truly fulfilling. Additionally, the opportunity to work with and learn from talented and creative individuals in the industry is also incredibly rewarding. It’s a constantly evolving craft that allows me to challenge myself and grow as an artist. Overall, the ability to create something that resonates with people and contributes to the art of storytelling is what makes being an actor so rewarding.
What’s your advice for the newer actors?
As someone who is relatively new to the industry myself, my advice for aspiring actors would be to maintain discipline and passion in your work. Keep learning and honing your skills, and look for opportunities to collaborate with other artists and professionals in the industry.
Additionally, don’t let rejection get you down. It’s inevitable that you will face many rejections in this industry (I personally went through over 75 auditions before landing ‘Grease’), but it’s important to maintain a positive attitude and remember that success takes time and effort. So keep working hard and never give up on your dreams.
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far in this business?
In my experience, the greatest lessons I’ve learned so far in this business are the importance of perseverance and resilience, and the value of maintaining a positive attitude in the face of rejection and setbacks. I’ve also learned the significance of continuously improving my craft and seeking out opportunities to work with other artists and professionals in the industry. Networking and building relationships with others have also proven to be crucial. Lastly, I’ve learned to be patient and trust the process, knowing that success in this industry takes time and effort.
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
“Finding My Voice: A Journey Through Passion and Perseverance.”
This title could represent my journey as an actor, from discovering my passion for the arts to overcoming the challenges and rejections that come with the industry. The title also implies a sense of personal growth and self-discovery, as you find your own voice and identity in the process. The endless chase for the person you want to be.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
If I could go back and give advice to my younger self, I would say, “Believe in yourself and your dreams. It’s important to set goals and work hard to achieve them, but don’t forget to enjoy the journey and the process. Don’t be afraid of failure, as it is a necessary step on the path to success. And lastly, listen to your mother. She loves you and wants the best for you, even if it may not seem like it at times. Trust her guidance and wisdom, as it will lead you to make better choices and avoid unnecessary mistakes.”
What’s next for Alexis Sides in 2023?
As an actor, I’ve learned to live in the present and take things one step at a time. While I don’t have any concrete projects lined up for 2023 yet, I’m excited about the possibilities and staying open to opportunities that come my way. Of course, I would love to be a part of the second season of “Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies” if it gets confirmed, but I’m also open to exploring other roles and projects that challenge me as an actor. In the meantime, I’ll continue to work on my craft, network with fellow industry professionals, and stay positive and focused on my goals.
What is your favorite healthy food?
When it comes to my favorite healthy food, I have to say Caesar salad is at the top of my list. I love the combination of fresh greens, protein, and tangy dressing. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a meal or a side, and it always leaves me feeling satisfied and energized. I also love to experiment with different variations of Caesar salad, adding in ingredients like grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak for extra flavor and nutrients. Overall, it’s a delicious and nutritious option that I always turn to when I want to fuel my body and stay healthy in an efficient way.
And your favorite cheat food?
While I try to maintain a balanced and healthy diet, there’s no denying that Mexican food is my absolute favorite indulgence. From savory tacos to cheesy enchiladas, I love the bold flavors and spices that are typical of Mexican cuisine. It’s my go-to comfort food, and it never fails to put a smile on my face. But as a proud Mexican, my favorite cheat food would have to be barbacoa tacos. There’s just something about the tender, flavorful meat paired with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime that always hits the spot. As a proud Mexican, I love indulging in this classic dish that represents the rich and diverse culinary heritage of my country. Whether enjoyed as a late-night snack or a weekend brunch, barbacoa tacos always bring a smile to my face and satisfy my cravings.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Happiness, to me, is like catching a glimpse of a rare and elusive bird in the wild. It’s not something that can be easily captured or predicted, but when it appears, it fills me with wonder and awe. It’s not a constant state of being, but rather a fleeting and precious moment that reminds me of the beauty and magic that exists in the world. Whether it’s the feeling of sun on my face, the sound of a bird singing, or the embrace of a loved one, happiness is a sensory experience that cannot be fully captured in words or defined by any one person. It’s a mysterious and wonderful force that continues to inspire me to seek out new adventures and experiences in life.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
To be honest, it’s hard to say where I see myself and my career in five years. I try not to get too caught up in the future and instead focus on the present moment and doing my best work. Of course, I have dreams and goals that I’m working towards, but I also recognize that things can change quickly and it’s important to stay adaptable.
That being said, I hope to continue pursuing my passion for acting and taking on roles that challenge me and allow me to grow as an artist. Whether it’s on stage or on screen, I want to continue telling compelling stories that inspire and connect with audiences. I also hope to expand my skill set and explore other areas of the industry, such as writing and producing.
Ultimately, my goal is to make a positive impact through my work and leave a lasting impression on those who watch it. Whether that means achieving fame and fortune or simply making a difference in someone’s life, I’m open to whatever opportunities come my way and excited to see where my journey takes me.
Favorite song? Why?
As someone who appreciates a wide range of musical genres, it’s hard to pick just one favorite song. However, I can say that Bad Bunny and Coldplay are two artists who have had a major influence on my life. Their music has been a constant source of comfort and inspiration during some of the hardest moments of my life, helping me to overcome those adversities. Bad Bunny’s unique blend of Reggaeton, Latin trap, and hip hop always gets me moving, while Coldplay’s emotive lyrics and anthemic soundscapes have carried me through some tough times.
In particular, Bad Bunny’s unique style, both in his music and his fashion choices, has inspired me to embrace my own individuality and to express myself in ways that feel true to who I am. I admire his willingness to speak out about important issues and to use his platform to promote positive change in the world.
But as much as I love these two artists, I am also a huge electronic music fan. There’s something about the energy and excitement of a great EDM track that can lift my mood and help me to escape the stresses of daily life. Whether I’m dancing with friends at a festival or simply listening to a favorite DJ mix at home, electronic music always has a way of putting a smile on my face and helping me to let go of my worries. So while I may not have one particular favorite song, I do have a deep love and appreciation for music that can move my body and my soul.
But for me, Coldplay and Bad Bunny will always hold a special place in my heart.
What do you think of Social Media?
Social media can be a powerful tool for connecting with others, sharing information and ideas, and building communities. It can also be a source of entertainment and a way to stay up-to-date on news and trends.
While social media can be a great tool for communication and connecting with others, it’s important to acknowledge the potential for mass manipulation. The algorithms used by these platforms can create echo chambers and contribute to the spread of misinformation. It’s important to approach social media with a critical eye and to be mindful of the information we consume and share.
Where we can follow you?
You can follow me on Instagram as @alexissides and on Twitter as @alexisides. Be warned though, my accounts are practically overflowing with posts, tweets, and stories. You might need a few extra hours in your day just to keep up with me!
Ps. I know my social media game could use some work, I promise to get better at it. I’m determined to step up my posting game and share more of my life with all of you! So give me a follow and let’s connect.
FAVORITE…
Quote: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Movie: As an actor and lover of cinema, I have a deep appreciation for well-made films. It’s hard to pick just one favorite, but I would have to say that The Shawshank Redemption holds a special place in my heart. The performances are incredibly moving and the story is both powerful and uplifting. I also have a soft spot for Fight Club and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, both of which showcase exceptional acting and storytelling. Another one of my favorite movies is “Dancer in the Dark,” starring Bjork. I think the combination of music, storytelling, and Bjork’s incredible performance make it a truly unforgettable film. As an artist, I find inspiration in these movies and they continue to impact me on a personal and professional level.
Tv Series: As someone who enjoys TV shows with a strong storyline and incredible acting, it’s tough to choose just one favorite. But if I had to, I would say that Black Mirror is definitely up there. The show’s thought-provoking themes and futuristic scenarios always leave me on the edge of my seat. Love, Death & Robots is also a favorite of mine for its stunning animation and diverse storytelling. And lastly, The Midnight Gospel is a recent discovery that has quickly become a favorite for its unique blend of philosophy and humor. All three shows are masterpieces in their own right, and I highly recommend them to anyone looking for engaging and thought-provoking TV.
Travel Destination: As someone who loves experiencing new places and cultures, it’s really difficult to choose just one travel destination. There are so many countries and cities that I would love to visit, each with their own unique history, art, and cuisine. I’m always open to discovering new places. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the beautiful beaches of Bali, there’s always something new to discover.
So far, I have only traveled to three cities outside of Mexico in my life, but each one has been a unique and unforgettable experience. While I don’t have a specific favorite destination, I do have a preference for places that allow me to immerse myself in the local culture and experience something truly authentic. Whether it’s trying new foods or exploring hidden gems that aren’t on the typical tourist map, I love to get a true sense of a place and its people.
For me, travel is about broadening my perspectives and learning about different cultures. It’s a chance to create unforgettable memories and to challenge myself to step out of my comfort zone. Whether I’m exploring a new city or trekking through the mountains, I’m always excited for the adventure and the opportunity to learn something new. The world is a vast and beautiful place, and I can’t wait to discover all that it has to offer.
Sports Team: I’m a HUUUUGE soccer fan. My favorite teams are Chivas de Guadalajara and Real Madrid. These teams have a special place in my heart and have brought me so much joy and excitement over the years. I feel a sense of pride whenever I see them on the field, representing their respective cities and countries. Being a fan of these teams has also connected me with other passionate soccer fans around the world, and I am grateful for the community and camaraderie that comes with being a part of the soccer world.
ARRIBA LAS CHIVAS & HALA MADRID!!
Photo credit: Trevor Brady
