In a bold, electric reimagining of the Shakespearean classic, Juliet and Romeo trades tragedy for tempo, blending the world’s most famous love story with the pulse of a modern pop opera. And right at the heart of it, with sword drawn and heart wide open, is German-Canadian actor Dennis Andres, bringing fresh life to a character often left in the wings—Lord Paris.

“I wasn’t sure how to feel about it out of the gate,” Andres admits, chuckling. “I mean… it’s William Shakespeare, you know?” But any hesitation quickly melted away when he met with director Tim Bogart. “We had a few conversations early on and realized we very much wanted to see the same Paris. Layered a bit differently than the conventional version… more rugged, more of a head-of-the-family type. He’s a strong leader—someone who has seen battle and cares very much for the well-being of his family and the people he represents.”

This version of Paris isn’t just a footnote. He’s a fully realized man with purpose, a clear departure from the often-sidelined suitor of Juliet. And with a cast stacked with legends and rising stars alike, Andres had no shortage of energy to feed off.

“It was a great time! Not without its challenges, of course, but it’s hard not to get romantic about shooting on location in Italy,” he says, grinning. “I’ve actually worked with Jason [Isaacs] on another project, Star Trek, and he’s my best friend now, obviously. He is unaware of that fact, but someone should let him know. Rebel [Wilson] was lovely—soft-spoken, very sweet and gentle, which was kind of a shock because she’s such an energetic presence onscreen.”

With Shakespearean veterans like Derek Jacobi and Rupert Everett sharing the screen with musical talents like Dan Fogler and Nick Podany, the ensemble becomes a melting pot of tone, talent, and texture. “And then… me,” Andres jokes. “Who sings like an angel and is a ballerina—but only in my bathroom.”

The film, set for a North American release on May 9 and a UK debut on June 11, finds its unique rhythm by leaning into the “pop opera” genre. “The best way to describe Juliet and Romeo is a fun and beautiful pop opera. Big emotion, bold visuals, and a pop musical energy that gives it a different, unique heartbeat,” Andres explains. “Others, like Leonardo and Claire’s version, were raw and chaotic in a brilliant way, and this one is almost dreamlike by contrast.”

And while the film dives into lavish fantasy, Andres’s roots remain grounded. A former member of the Canadian Armed Forces, his military past still shapes his discipline, even if it doesn’t dictate his role choices. “It wasn’t exactly a highlight of my life… but it taught me a lot about grit and probably most importantly, who I am. I’m thankful for those lessons, but I’m even more grateful that I found acting and filmmaking.”

That grit translates into his physicality as an actor too. “Absolutely,” he says when asked if his stunt and martial arts background influences his roles. “Physicality—a lot or very little—is just as important as anything else to tell a good story. It just depends on what is necessary for the character on that day.”

From Netflix’s Workin’ Moms and Feel the Beat to Apple TV+’s haunting The Changeling, Andres has been steadily building a portfolio that spans genre, format, and era. “Paris is a leader and a warrior, and Leif [from The Changeling] is more of a laid-back pacifist,” he reflects. “That’s the beauty of storytelling, right? Getting to live inside completely different worlds.”

Yet, perhaps nothing compares to being part of an epic feature film shot in castles, backed by the design genius of Dante Ferretti and wardrobe magic of Luciano Capozzi. “I mean, how do you beat that?” he laughs. “No, it was unreal… surreal? It was amazing. Period.”

But Andres isn’t just stopping at acting. His production company, Half-a-Plan, is already stirring things up with upcoming titles like The Ferryman’s Coin, a cheeky, high-stakes thriller that promises suspense with a wink. “It’s a story I had to write,” he says. “A lot of my inner arguments turned into story format while tipping my cap to a few of the stories and songs I hold near and dear.”

And somewhere in the whirlwind of projects, premieres, and swordfights, Dennis became a dad. “Still settling into the father title,” he admits with a grin, “but yeah, it’s changed everything… especially sleep. Now, not booking a job just means I get to hang with my daughter, watch her grow, clean puke, change diapers. All the fun stuff.”

That balance between family and film, adventure and introspection, also fuels his philanthropic side. He works closely with Resilient Kids Canada, which partners with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. “Their mission felt like an obvious fit,” he shares. “I had been thinking about starting my own charity because I couldn’t find one I aligned with—until I found them.”

And when the camera stops rolling? Andres can be found riding motorcycles, rock climbing, or in the kitchen cooking a meal that would make Gordon Ramsay proud. “Those things help me decompress. Honestly, I do them to take my mind off work. Otherwise, it’s all I think about.”

So, what’s more challenging—grounded, emotional roles or the high-octane action gigs?

“Is this a trick question?” he fires back with a smirk.

For Dennis Andres, it’s not about choosing one path. It’s about walking them all—rugged roads, pop-operatic stages, and the gentle quiet of home. And as Juliet and Romeo prepares to hit theaters with its dazzling, genre-defying twist, one thing’s for sure: Lord Paris is no longer a side character. Thanks to Andres, he’s front and center—and unforgettable.