Born in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, Elias was the middle child of three, raised by Greek immigrant parents who instilled in him the values of hard work and resilience from a young age. During his childhood summers, Elias would often spend his vacation days assisting his father in his produce business, developing a strong work ethic and an appreciation for the importance of community.
As Elias entered his freshman year in college, his life took an unexpected turn when he was drafted into the United States Army. His military service was marked by a tour of duty in Vietnam, where he served as an infantryman with the esteemed 101st Airborne Division. This experience had a profound impact on Elias, shaping his perspective and preparing him for the challenges he would face in the years to come.
After his military service, Elias returned to college and completed his undergraduate degree in biochemistry, with the intention of pursuing a career in dentistry. However, despite his best efforts, he was not accepted into dental school. Undeterred, Elias embarked on a series of unconventional jobs, eventually finding his calling in the world of fashion.
For over a decade, Elias worked as a model in major fashion capitals such as New York, Paris, and Milan, building a successful career that took him to the heights of the industry. However, as his passion for acting grew, Elias made the difficult decision to leave the world of fashion behind and return to his hometown of Los Angeles to pursue his dream of becoming an actor.
Throughout his journey, Elias has also honed his skills as a photographer, citing the late Ken Haak as his inspiration and mentor. Haak's influence can be seen in Elias's ability to capture the essence of his subjects, telling stories through his lens that are both poignant and powerful. As Elias continues to navigate the complexities of his career, he remains committed to his craft, driven by a passion for storytelling and a desire to leave a lasting impact on the world of entertainment.