Please introduce yourself. What do you do? Why? What do you want people to know about you?
My name is Thomas Augusto dos Santos Claro, though in the entertainment world, I go by Thomas Augusto. Originally from Brazil, I relocated to the United States in 2019 to pursue higher education and delve into the Film and TV industry.
Having obtained my bachelor’s degree in Theatre last year, my journey in performance began even before college, as I eagerly engaged in theatrical productions early on.
What drives me to pursue this path? Since childhood, I’ve been drawn to the arts, finding solace and expression in various mediums. From my early days spent sketching intricate drawings inspired by animated shows to crafting my own stories and delving into music, each phase contributed to my artistic evolution.
However, it was acting that ultimately captured my heart. Despite initial hesitation towards its perceived instability, I realized my true calling lay in entertaining and embodying characters. This conviction solidified at the age of 14, setting me on the path I now wholeheartedly embrace.
What defines me is my unwavering passion for this craft. While I harbor aspirations for exploring other artistic realms in the future, acting remains my foremost love. I am committed to weathering the challenges and relishing the triumphs inherent in this industry, perpetually striving for growth and refinement.
Each experience, whether on set or in character preparation, serves as a stepping stone towards honing my skills and enriching my artistry.
I revel in the exhilaration of portraying diverse roles and connecting with audiences on a profound level. The prospect of unveiling new facets of myself to the world fuels my ambition, propelling me ever higher in pursuit of my artistic dreams. After all, the view from the summit is undeniably breathtaking.

What qualities make you different and unique from everyone else in the industry?
What sets me apart from others in the industry are several distinctive qualities, starting with my life story, which is entirely my own. No one else has experienced the unique journey I have undertaken, with its diverse cultural background, linguistic diversity, and myriad life experiences. These experiences imbue my craft with emotional depth, enabling me to access a wide range of feelings and empathize with characters on a profound level.
Furthermore, my creativity is a defining attribute that enhances my approach to acting. From a young age, I have been immersed in various artistic endeavors, from visual arts to writing. I have cultivated a rich tapestry of creations, including drawings, paintings, poems, and stories, all of which contribute to my imaginative reservoir.
As an actor, I infuse characters with my own interpretations, adding layers of nuance and depth that stem from my unique perspective. This creative freedom allows me to breathe life into roles in a manner that is distinctly mine.
Lastly, my determination to transcend conventional career boundaries sets me apart. I aspire to build a legacy that extends beyond mere employment, aiming to craft impactful narratives and inspire audiences through my art.
With ambitions to write, direct, and produce my own projects, I envision a future where I can manifest my creative vision across various mediums. Whether through film, literature, or multimedia endeavors, I am committed to realizing my artistic potential and leaving an indelible mark on the world.
Describe THAT moment when you realized you’re doing what you were born to do.
I vividly recall the moment when my career path crystallized before me. Since childhood, I harbored a deep-seated desire to pursue some form of artistic expression, often vocalizing this aspiration to my parents and anyone curious about my future aspirations.
However, the precise revelation of my calling among the myriad possibilities occurred many years ago, at the age of fourteen. It was an unremarkable day, traversing the bustling streets of my hometown in Brazil with my mother. Amidst the backdrop of congested traffic and the crimson glow of brake lights, a sudden clarity washed over me.
Reflecting on a film franchise that had left a profound impact on me, I turned to my mother and declared, “Mom, I know what I want to do with my life. I want to be an actor.” From that definitive moment, the conviction never wavered; it became an unshakable truth etched in my mind.
Inspired by the narrative depth, adventurous spirit, and captivating performances of the “Pirates of the Caribbean” series, I recognized in them the elements I aspired to emulate in my own storytelling. Witnessing actors embody characters with authenticity and creativity ignited a passion within me to bring fictional narratives to life. It was the culmination of years of longing, finally crystallizing into a singular purpose.
Since that pivotal revelation, I’ve pursued my calling with unwavering determination, driven by a desire to honor the promise I made to my younger self. Fuelled by the aspiration to make a mark in the world of storytelling, I remain committed to the relentless pursuit of my dreams, ever mindful of the transformative power of that pivotal “click” moment that set me on this path.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve had to go through and how did you grow through it?
The most significant hurdle I’ve faced involved the decision to leave my native Brazil, where I had my family and childhood friends, for the United States. Moving to a new country is a monumental life change, and despite the opportunity stemming from my mother’s job transfer, doubts clouded my mind. Even when I became certain that relocating was the best move for my future and career, uncertainties lingered.
Upon arriving in the United States, there was a period of adjustment before I found my footing. The initial months were particularly challenging as I grappled with homesickness for loved ones back in Brazil. Furthermore, navigating the entertainment industry in a new country presented its own set of challenges. In Brazil, I had a clear plan for pursuing an acting career, but in the U.S., I had to familiarize myself with a different landscape.
I embarked on extensive research, tapping into local and regional film and TV communities, connecting with filmmakers through social media groups, and delving into casting websites and talent agencies. I embraced online platforms like Zoom, which facilitated access to top acting coaches and eliminated the need for frequent travel for classes. Engaging with industry professionals, auditioning for various productions, and immersing myself in networking opportunities became integral to my journey.
Through this experience, I cultivated courage to confront significant life changes head-on and took proactive steps towards my goals. I immersed myself in learning about the U.S. entertainment industry, continuously evolving and gaining confidence in my abilities. Reflecting on my growth, I recognize the transformative impact of overcoming challenges along the way.
While I acknowledge there are more obstacles ahead, particularly concerning adaptation to ongoing changes in the industry, I approach them with a resilient mindset. The dynamic nature of the entertainment business necessitates flexibility, a trait I’ve honed through my experiences. As I look forward to the next chapter of my life and career, I’m prepared to embrace challenges with the knowledge that the rewards far outweigh the hardships.

Who are the TOP 3 people you’d want to meet that could elevate your career or business? Why these specific individuals?
The top three individuals I aspire to meet, each capable of significantly advancing my career in show business, encompass a diverse range of expertise and influence.
Firstly, Casting Director John Papsidera stands out for his prolific work on beloved TV shows like “Wednesday,” “Lost in Space,” and “The Night Agent,” along with blockbuster films such as “Oppenheimer” and several of Christopher Nolan’s acclaimed works like “Inception” and “The Dark Knight.” Given my admiration for Nolan’s films, meeting Papsidera presents an invaluable opportunity to forge connections and potentially elevate my career.
Another figure I eagerly anticipate meeting is Actor Jonathan Groff, renowned for his roles in major productions including “Knock at the Cabin,” “The Matrix Resurrections,” and the “Frozen” franchise, as well as the TV series “Mindhunter.” What makes this encounter particularly intriguing is the shared connection with Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where I relocated upon coming to the United States. The prospect of meeting someone linked to the city I now call home adds an extra layer of significance to the potential meeting.
Lastly, I am keen to connect with Talent Agent Fatmata Kamara, whose illustrious career spans top agencies such as CAA, A3 Artists Agency, and her current role at Independent Artist Group (IAG). Hailing from Alexandria, Virginia, Kamara’s expertise and connections in the industry make her a compelling figure to learn from and potentially collaborate with.
My selection of these individuals stems from their unparalleled expertise and accomplishments within the entertainment industry. I am confident that conversing with them would offer invaluable insights into their respective journeys, decisions, and advice for aspiring actors like myself. Additionally, the potential for establishing meaningful connections and collaborations further underscores the appeal of meeting them.
Perhaps there’s a chance you might be connected to them…? 😉
Drop your social media links.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thomas_augusto_tom/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thomas.augusto.actor
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/_tom_augusto
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-augusto-actor/
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thomasaugusto