Actor, presenter, MC, family man and fitness fanatic… Is there anything Nico Panagio can’t do?
Pretoria-born Nicolaos Panagiotopoulos, better known as Nico Panagio, is one of South Africa’s leading household names. The actor, presenter and businessman has come a long way since his early theatre days and time on 7de Laan to being the host of Survivor South Africa. Throughout his career, he has managed to maintain a steady momentum of success, and shows no signs of stopping. Nico shares insight into leading a life some only dream of.
FIRST STEPS
It was quite some time before Nico took his first steps into the entertainment industry. After matriculating from Pretoria Boys High School, Nico joined the South African Navy to complete his national service and, shortly after, entered the corporate world. Here, he spent five years gaining experience in business management, for which he received a diploma. But that was never the dream for Nico, so he also completed a diploma in drama at the Method Actors’
TAKING TO THE STAGE
For a man of his acting talents, it’s no surprise that Nico has a CV worth boasting about, with his most notable roles portraying lead characters on popular South African soapies, such as George Kyriakis on 7de Laan, Gabriel in Ella Blue, and Jacques in Vallei van Sluiers. In 2012, Nico caught his big break in film with the hit Semi-Soet, and has been cast as a lead in several other South African films since. His career as a presenter was launched by SABC 3’s Top Billing. In-between his busy schedule, Nico travels the world and indulges in luxurious foods, partakes in adrenaline-pumping activities and mingles with celebrities. From wine-tasting with Terry Crews, to baking with Buddy Valastro, Nico’s talent and charm has seen him make some lifelong memories.
SURVIVING SURVIVOR
In 2010, Nico took on the role of hosting South Africa’s very own Survivor. ‘I see Survivor as a microcosm of the real world; a simplified, contained sample of what happens in our real tribes of family, friends, work or culture and even country tribes,’ he says. This is how the show is a success. ‘Survivor is not contrived. You pit people against one another, you pit them against the weather, and you pit them against the game – which is when production throws things at them. And of course, they throw things at one another,’ Nico told IOL. ‘It’s what makes the show work so well.’
After several seasons, Nico admits that each year brings with it new challenges and teachings for both crew and cast. The latest season showed some severe tactics and blindsiding. ‘The most painful blindsides to watch are the ones where someone leaves with an idol in their pocket. This season that dubious honour went to Mmaba. The first few moments after finding an idol are dangerous, since you are on a euphoric high and as such, soon after, people often make the gravest mistakes,’ explains Nico.
Training Centre. This was the beginning of what would be a 17-year-long career in the South African media and entertainment industry.