Italian queer actor Giuseppe Futia is La Dolce Villa's breakout star
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Loading... - Coby Groff
- 20 Feb 2025
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Giuseppe Futia is making waves as the newest heartthrob in Netflix's romantic comedy, La Dolce Villa. Hailing from Calabria, Italy, Futia plays Giovanni, a talented chef who becomes the love interest of Olivia, portrayed by Maia Reficco. Set against the stunning backdrop of an Italian villa, the film is a heartwarming journey of love and self-discovery, marking a significant moment in Futia's burgeoning acting career.
Futia dove deep into his role, embracing his character's passion for cooking. "I definitely turned up the charm," he shares with a laugh, noting that his favorite dishes to cook are simple yet classic: "either an omelet or pasta Bolognese." Giovanni's journey in the film resonates with Futia, particularly the themes of growth and communication. He reflects on the importance of understanding and nurturing relationships, likening communication to tending a garden: "If you want pretty flowers, you need to water them."
As a queer actor, Futia is candid about navigating straight roles like Giovanni. "I couldn't wait for this question," he laughs, explaining that he played straight characters throughout his teenage years. "Love is love, whether you love a man or a woman. It's all love." He emphasizes that self-expression varies across the spectrum, and he has embraced his identity more fully over the years.
Futia also shares his experiences in the modeling industry, recalling a particularly uncomfortable casting call that left a lasting impact. "I was a teenager, so I didn't say anything back. But that scared me for a couple of years." Despite the challenges, he has learned to value himself amid the relentless rejection that comes with acting. "It's a hundred noes and one yes, which changes everything," he reflects. "I've got to say: I'm doing a better job at unconditional self-love in the last few years."
Self-expression has become a significant part of Futia's evolution. He admits to having muted aspects of himself in the past to fit a mold but has since embraced his true self. "I've always known what people wanted to see. Only in the last few years have I fully embraced who I am," he says, highlighting his interests in reading, meditation, and languages.
Futia credits his acting school experience in New York for helping him grow both on and off-screen. "I've learned that whatever I feel is okay, because I'm feeling it. Emotions are worth expressing, no matter how they come out."
When it comes to enjoying La Dolce Villa, Futia has some wine recommendations. For white wine lovers, he suggests Greco di Tufo from southern Italy, and for red wine enthusiasts, Lambrusco is a must-try.
Reflecting on his journey, Futia acknowledges how frequent travel has reshaped his sense of home. "I come from a very small beach town in southern Italy, and I couldn't wait to escape it when I was younger. Now, every time I go back, I'm so grateful for my little piece of heaven." He has learned to create his own habitat wherever he goes, finding comfort in nature, art, and great food.
Futia believes that the journey of love must start within. "Go fall in love with yourself first, then with life, and then with anybody else," he advises. He draws inspiration from Erich Fromm's works, emphasizing that love is an art form that requires cultivation.
As a queer actor, Futia's defining moment came when he moved from his small hometown to West Hollywood at age 19. The contrast between his previous environment and the vibrant, accepting culture of West Hollywood was transformative. "It reminded me that being myself wasn't an issue," he says, noting that embracing his identity has been a step-by-step process.
Today, Futia confidently shares his personal life, stating, "I have a boyfriend," and openly discussing his experiences. "It took time. But now, I own who I am." With his talent and authenticity, Giuseppe Futia is undoubtedly a rising star to watch in the entertainment industry.
