Ukrainian actor Bohdan Ruban chatted with #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos about starring in vertical dramas.
Maya Angelou once said: “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” This quote applies to Bohdan Ruban.
What motivates you each day as an actor?
For me, first of all — it’s the craft I genuinely love. Acting gives me a chance to step into experiences that Bohdan Ruban, in his own reality, probably wouldn’t reach or even think of choosing.
And second — it’s the impact. The idea that what I do can become someone’s escape, or even a quiet answer they were looking for. People watch a story, recognize a piece of themselves in a character, and maybe it helps them understand what to do next… or what not to do. Sometimes it’s just about feeling — letting something out, finally.
In a way, you become a small part of something bigger. Something that allows people to release emotions they’ve been carrying for too long, something that’s been sitting heavy inside them. And that… that’s a pretty powerful reason to keep going every day.
How does it feel to be a part of vertical dramas? How does it feel to be an actor in the digital age?
Honestly, nothing but gratitude. Being part of vertical dramas feels like being right inside something that belongs to now — it’s modern, it’s fast, it’s innovative. It’s a format that speaks the language of today, and you can feel that energy on set and beyond. There’s a real sense of momentum, like you’re riding a wave that’s still growing.
What makes it even more real is the audience. Millions of views, incredible feedback, people genuinely connecting with these stories — that doesn’t happen by accident. It proves that this genre exists for a reason.
What do your plans for the future include?
Expanding beyond borders, for sure. I’m really focused on building collaborations with international production companies and clients all over the world. Vertical dramas already have a global audience, so it feels like a natural step to take that energy further and work across different countries and markets.
And who knows — maybe very soon I’ll be going on a kind of world tour… just not as a rockstar, but as an actor in vertical series. Different sets, different cultures, same passion for the craft. That’s the direction I’m moving toward.
Were there any moments in your career that have helped define you? How do your Ukrainian roots helped mold you into the person you are today?
Honestly, I’d say it’s less about specific career moments and more about the choices I make and the experiences life throws at me.
It’s my actions, the way I respond to situations, the risks I take, the things I go through — all of that shapes who I am as a person. And who I am as a person inevitably defines who I am as an actor.
So in a way, my career is just a reflection of my path. Every decision, every challenge, every turning point — they all quietly build the foundation of what you eventually see on screen.
The same here…it’s not just about roots — it’s about the journey.
What does the word success mean to you?
A year ago, I went through surgery to remove a cancerous tumor. So now, my perspective on success is very clear.
For me, success is the feeling that you can. That you’re still moving forward, still growing, still expanding your limits. It’s not about a final destination or some external validation — it’s about not stopping.
As long as you keep going, becoming better, pushing past what once felt impossible… that’s success to me.
What would you like to say to your fans?
As always — I’ll be waiting for all of you at our traditional Friday stream on Twitch.
Don’t forget to make some tea and grab something sweet on the side. Cozy vibes, good company… you know the deal.
To learn more about Ukrainian actor Bohdan Ruban, follow him on Instagram.
