Boris Krastev: Rising Star of Bulgarian Drama “Faith, Hope, Love”
Boris Krastev is quickly becoming a recognizable face in Bulgarian television, captivating audiences with his authentic portrayal of Dr. Atanas Dermendzhiev in the new series “Faith, Hope, Love.” The show, which premiered on bTV on March 6, 2026, is set in 1990s Bulgaria and explores the intertwined lives within a hospital and a nightclub, offering a compelling look at a nation in transition.
A Family Legacy in the Arts
Krastev’s talent doesn’t emerge from a vacuum. He is the son of renowned Bulgarian actor Malinov Krastev, known for his work in productions like “January,” “Tartuffe,” and “Seven Hours Difference.” Malinov Krastev also teaches acting at the Nikolai Binev Youth Theatre. Boris’s mother, Stanka Kalcheva, is also an actress.
Despite the strong artistic presence in his family, Krastev has forged his own path. He and his father reportedly avoid leveraging their familial connection for professional gain, prioritizing merit and skill. The pair even shared the stage in a production of “2084. REX. The Last King of the World,” with Malinov playing a futuristic king and Boris as his cyber assistant.
Early Beginnings and Formal Training
Krastev’s passion for performance began early, with his first stage appearance at the age of 10 in a production of “Apocalypse Comes at Six PM.” He later made his film debut in “The Only Love Story Hemingway Didn’t Write.”
He honed his craft at the National Academy for Theatre and Film Arts (NATFA) in the class of Professor Zdravko Mitkov, and was a recipient of the Stefan Danailov scholarship.
The Role of Dr. Dermendzhiev
In “Faith, Hope, Love,” Krastev plays Atanas Dermendzhiev, an obstetrician-gynecologist. The character is described as an attractive and successful man who lives in the shadow of his esteemed father, a leading figure at the hospital. A central conflict for Atanas is his animosity towards Bogdan (Antony Penev), who is favored by his father.
A Ritual of Dedication
Krastev has developed a unique pre-performance ritual: sharing a quote from the play on social media that resonates with him. He views this as a demonstration of dedication and understanding of the text.
Beyond the Screen
Krastev is also known for his love of cats, a fondness that dates back to his childhood. He often shares glimpses of his life and work on social media.
The Setting: 1990s Bulgaria
“Faith, Hope, Love” transports viewers to Sofia in 1998, a period marked by economic and social upheaval. The series contrasts the world of the “Vera, Nadezhda, Lyubov” hospital with the nightlife and ambition of the “Marsilia” club, exploring the complex connections between these seemingly disparate spheres.
FAQ
What is “Faith, Hope, Love” about?
The series follows interconnected stories within a hospital and nightclub setting in 1990s Bulgaria, exploring themes of ambition, morality, and the challenges of a changing nation.
Who are Boris Krastev’s parents?
Boris Krastev’s father is actor Malinov Krastev, and his mother is actress Stanka Kalcheva.
Where can I watch “Faith, Hope, Love”?
The series airs on bTV.
What role does Boris Krastev play in the series?
He plays Dr. Atanas Dermendzhiev, an obstetrician-gynecologist.
Pro Tip: Retain an eye out for Boris Krastev’s pre-performance quotes on social media – it’s a fascinating insight into his approach to his craft!
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