We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ruben St.Vilus a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Ruben , appreciate you joining us today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.
As a first-generation Haitian-American, I was raised with a deep respect for hard work, education, and the kind of career that promised stability. For years, I was on the fast track to becoming an OB/GYN — fully committed to a future in medicine. But even while immersed in my pre-med studies, something in me kept being drawn to the stage. Performing wasn’t just a hobby; it was where I felt most alive. The more I leaned into it, the more doors opened — including a full scholarship to college thanks to my work in theater. That was the turning point when I realized this wasn’t just a passion, it was a calling.
Choosing to pursue acting professionally was one of the biggest risks I’ve ever taken, but it’s also been the most rewarding. Since then, I’ve built a career that spans not only stage performance but also film and voiceover work. It’s been a journey of faith, discipline, and creative growth — and I stand today as an artist proud to represent both my roots and my voice. Following this path has taught me that the most powerful thing you can do is honor the truth of who you are — even when it means rewriting the plan
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I was born in Brooklyn, New York, but raised in the South — a blend of grit and hospitality that’s shaped who I am both as a person and as an artist. I’m currently based out of Atlanta, a city that’s becoming one of the most exciting creative hubs in the industry, and a place that continues to fuel my growth as an actor.
My journey into acting began at 15, when I stepped into my first high school theater production — a Shakespeare play, no less. Something about the language, the weight of the words, and the way the audience leaned in hooked me instantly. That early spark turned into a fire thanks to my mentor, James Howell, who introduced me not just to the craft, but to the power of storytelling. He taught me that acting isn’t just performance — it’s a gift, a tool, and sometimes a lifeline for people who need to see themselves and their struggles reflected with honesty and heart.
As a first-generation Haitian-American, storytelling has always lived in my bones. Acting became my creative way of honoring that legacy — while also using the stage and screen to hold up a mirror to the world around us. To me, this work is more than entertainment. It’s a space where truth and imagination meet, where we can start real conversations about identity, pain, joy, and the human condition. That’s what drives me — telling stories that not only move people but matter to them.
Today, I continue to pursue that purpose across film, voiceover, and live performance. Whether it’s on a set or a stage, I bring with me the voices of those who came before me, and the passion of someone who truly believes in the power of art to transform, connect, and heal.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
A lesson I had to unlearn was relying on outward validation to feel confident in my craft. Early on, I tied my worth as an actor to applause, praise, or booking the role — and when those things were missing, I questioned myself. It wasn’t sustainable. Over time, especially through tough auditions and quiet seasons, I learned that real confidence has to come from within. I had to trust my preparation, my growth, and the truth I bring to every performance. That shift didn’t just make me a stronger actor — it made me a more grounded human being.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
Absolutely. One moment that really tested my resilience was when I was working overnight shifts at a local hospital while preparing for the Florida Theatre Conference. I’d finish my shift at sunrise, catch a quick nap, then dive straight into monologues and scene work. It was exhausting, but I knew what I was fighting for. That hard work paid off when I set a record for the most audition callbacks that year. It reminded me that even when the odds are stacked, discipline and heart can push you through.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @_Botus_
Image Credits
@mheadshots