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The Hollywood Reporter – Cover Story by Melanie Harwell-Lewis
BEING NICO
Nico is shy.
Yeah, the guy that headlined umpteen movies in the past decade… he’s an introvert.
I met up with Nico at his favorite hangout in Hollywood. He begged me not to put the name of it down in the story, because he loves sneaking away and hiding in the tall booth in the back, just as he has since the first week he landed in Los Angeles.
“I don’t like attention,” he whispers in his trademark Spanish accent. “I love the work.”
It's an ironic twist for someone who has become one of the most recognizable faces in international cinema. Nico, whose real name is Nicolás Ángel Hernández, has been making waves in the entertainment industry ever since he burst onto the scene in his hometown of Alicante, Spain over a decade ago.
But it wasn't until he landed a role in an unassuming indie film called “Have It Your Way” that Nico's career really took off. Since then, he has become a fixture on red carpets around the world, gracing the covers of magazines and newspapers, and amassing legions of fans.
Despite his fame and accolades, Nico remains a private person. He shies away from the spotlight whenever possible, preferring to spend his downtime with family and close friends.
It's a dichotomy that's not lost on those who know him well. "Nico? Ah, he’s a secret nerd." says one longtime friend. "He's happiest when he's alone or with a few trusted people. But when he steps onto a set or a stage, he transforms into this larger-than-life character. It's like he has two personalities."
Nico himself admits that he finds it challenging to navigate the demands of his public persona. "I'm not good at small talk," he says. "I don't like to talk about myself. But I understand that it's part of the job. So I try to find a balance."
That balance has served him well so far. Despite his reluctance to engage with the media and fans, Nico's talent and hard work have earned him a reputation as one of the most versatile actors of his generation.
He has tackled a wide range of roles over the years, from brooding antiheroes to charming romantic leads to action heroes. And he has done so with a level of nuance and authenticity that has earned him critical acclaim and numerous award nominations.
As he sips from a cup of coffee, Nico reflects on his journey so far. "I never imagined that I would be here," he says. "But I'm grateful for every opportunity that I've had. And I'm excited for what's next."
But before we can delve deeper into exactly what's next, I bring up a topic that makes Nico visibly uncomfortable.
His on-again-off-again romance with the infamous pop singer Jessica Joyce.
The relationship has been the subject of intense media speculation for years. The couple's public displays of affection and subsequent breakups have his fans clamoring for answers.
When I mention Jessica's name, Nico's demeanor changes. He fidgets with his coffee cup and looks away.
"I don't want to talk about that," he says, his voice barely above a whisper.
I try to steer the conversation in a different direction, but Nico is clearly rattled. "Look, I understand that people are curious," he says. "But my private life is just that – private. I don't think it's fair for me or anyone else to be constantly scrutinized like that."
I can sense that the topic is off-limits, so I change gears again. We talk about his upcoming projects, including a highly anticipated action film and a period drama that will see him step into the shoes of a historical figure.
As we wrap up our conversation, Nico seems more relaxed. He thanks me for my time waves goodbye from his little nook in a dark restaurant, his safe haven from the madness of Hollywood.
It's clear that despite his aversion to the spotlight, Nico is committed to his craft. He may not seek out the attention that comes with fame, but he's willing to endure it in order to do what he loves.
As I walk out of the café, I can't help but wonder what it must be like to live in the limelight. But one thing is certain – if anyone can handle the pressure, it's Nico.
Find Out What Happens to Nico
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