Can a role truly define an actor, or does the actor breathe life into the role, transforming it into something more? In the case of Angel Bismark Curiel and his portrayal of Lil Papi in FX's "Pose," the answer is unequivocally the latter, as he has brought a warmth, depth and vulnerability to the character that has resonated deeply with audiences.
Angel Bismark Curiel, the Dominican-American actor hailing from Liberty City, Miami, has become a name synonymous with Lil Papi Evangelista, the heartthrob of the ballroom scene depicted in the critically acclaimed series "Pose." However, Curiel's journey to the screen, like many in the industry, was not without its hurdles. Before he captivated audiences as the charming runaway, he almost didn't pursue acting at all. He has revealed in interviews that his earlier life, including his high school days when he was skipping class, was quite different from the polished, poised performances he delivers on screen. This earlier life has provided the actor with the experience to anchor many of the stories and delivered emotion with a quiet strength and intensity that was believable and elevated the material past the expectations of the viewers.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Angel Bismark Curiel |
| Date of Birth | October 16, 1995 |
| Place of Birth | Liberty City, Miami, Florida |
| Nationality | American (Dominican descent) |
| Known For | Portraying Lil Papi Evangelista in "Pose" |
| Education | Pace University (While he was in college at Pace University.) |
| Career Highlights |
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| Awards and Nominations |
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| Relationship | In a romantic relationship with writer and director, Janet Mock. |
| Links | IMDB |
Curiel's trajectory in the entertainment world began to accelerate while he was still a student at Pace University. In 2016, he made his film debut in Christopher James Lopezs "America Adrift," playing Cameron, the youngest son in a Long Island family. Although his resume boasts a range of roles, Curiel is most widely recognized for his portrayal of Lil Papi in "Pose," a show that has not only garnered critical acclaim but also significantly impacted how stories of the LGBTQ+ community are told. The significance of the episode was certainly not lost on Curiel himself. He opened up about the education he received during his time on the show, and how he hopes it can inspire young cis boys like him.
The show, set against the backdrop of New York Citys vibrant ballroom culture in the 1980s and 90s, explores themes of identity, love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of dreams within a marginalized community. "Pose" is celebrated for its groundbreaking representation of transgender individuals, with the vast majority of the cast being transgender themselves. It is a series that has, in many ways, changed Hollywood's perception of the community. The actor has often spoken about the importance of diverse and accurate storytelling for Hispanic and Latino people. Curiels role, as one of the few cisgender actors in the main cast, highlights the love story between a straight guy and a trans woman. Curiel shared how he stood up for trans rights on set, and how honored he is to be a part of the series.
Curiels character, Lil Papi, transcended the role. He became an emblem of warmth and devotion, the kind of character that audiences root for. In seasons 2 and 3, Papi becomes an agent for LGBT+ models, including Angel, demonstrating the characters growth and his commitment to supporting the community he loves. His journey reflects a path to maturity and resilience, dealing with society's frigid temperament toward the HIV/AIDS epidemic, offering a beacon of hope amidst hardship. The series allowed him to showcase an emotional range that endeared him to audiences, including his character's relationship with Angel, with whom he shares a complex yet touching connection that forms the heart of a significant storyline.
The role of Lil Papi has allowed Curiel to demonstrate his acting capabilities, from the heartthrob to the committed partner, Curiel has made the character an undeniable fan favorite. This success has not gone unnoticed. In 2019, Curiel received an Imagen Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, which solidified his growing reputation as a talent to watch. His work in the 2020 high school chess film "Critical Thinking" showcased his versatility and his ability to choose projects that reflect the world around him.
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The actor does not take for granted the love fans have for Lil Papi, his character on FXs critically acclaimed "Pose". Curiel has openly expressed his appreciation for the opportunities that "Pose" has given him. He told a story on stage during a mock event saying, let me tell you something about love. He has mentioned that he hopes to take on theatre roles in the near future. He seems to be open for new projects and for all the opportunities that await him.
Curiel reflects on the lack of roles for and stories about Latino people, emphasizing the importance of diverse and accurate storytelling within the industry. He believes everyone has a story to tell and its unfair to put everyone in a narrow and small category. Curiel hopes to leave the cast member after 3 years on FXs drama series "Pose" when he is in college at Pace University.
Curiels career has been marked by a commitment to authentic portrayal and a desire to contribute to narratives that reflect the full spectrum of human experience. The shows legacy extends beyond entertainment; it has been a platform for education and empathy, allowing viewers to connect with and understand the struggles and triumphs of a community that has often been relegated to the margins. As Curiel continues to navigate his career, it is clear that he will continue to be a force for positive change in the entertainment industry, while staying true to himself.
