Actress Claudia Ferri has spent her career moving easily between cultures, languages, and countries.
Born and raised in Montreal to an Italian father and French Canadian mother, she grew up in a home where diversity (thanks to her extended family from Egypt, Lebanon, to name a few) was the norm and curiosity was encouraged. That mix of influences shaped her approach to storytelling and to life.
“Growing up in a cosmopolitan family environment in a country as open as Canada was the perfect setup to dream big,” she says. “I remember the word international echoing in my mind at a very young age, guiding me toward the territory I wanted to explore as an actress. When I discovered the wonderfully mercurial Meryl Streep, I knew that all the influences I got from home would serve me well as I embarked on this journey beyond physical and personal frontiers, one I am still venturing on to this day.”
That spirit of curiosity and ambition led Claudia to an impressive career that spans television, film, and theatre in North America and Europe. Her latest role in Palm Royale, Apple TV+’s star-studded series set in the world of Palm Beach high society, has introduced her to an even wider audience.
Working With Comedy Legends
With a cast that includes Kristen Wiig, Carol Burnett, and Allison Janney, Palm Royale is both a period piece and a masterclass in ensemble acting. Ferri’s character, Raquel, is a Cuban expat who navigates the elite social scene with flair and mischief.
“At this stage in the series, my interactions with Carol are not nearly as extensive as those with Kristen,” she says. “But to be in a room with them is nothing short of magical. I had to shake myself out of being awestruck for a bit there. Their legacy of excellence and kindness is quite inspiring. They are truly remarkable instigators of comedy who make you raise your game.”
Raquel: Humor With a Hint of Mystery
Claudia’s portrayal of Raquel has resonated with audiences for her balance of humor and unpredictability. “In season two, humor is still very much au rendez-vous, but we don't quite see her heart just yet,” Ferri explains. “At this stage, Raquel is like taking a mouthful of Pop Rocks, think firecrackers, when you think you're getting Fun Dip or Kool-Aid powder. I hope the viewers will love her with all her quirks, flaws, and mystery, but that they’ll also be curious to know more about her, to discover what lies beneath.”
Claudia Ferri at the Palm Royale Season 2 Tastemaker Event. Photo provided by Apple TV.
The Journey of a Global Performer
When asked what advice she might offer to Canadian actors hoping to build international careers, Claudia is thoughtful. “I don’t know about giving others advice, but as far as my career is concerned, I’m a long-term strategist. Start at home, see how you fare, then branch out gradually. Follow your bliss and the path that feels right for you in your gut. When people ask me for advice, I quote Bruce Lee: Be a practical dreamer backed by action.”
She adds, “In my own words and experience, I compare actions, as small as they may be, to steps. Put one foot in front of the other, and the path will reveal itself with each step you take.”
What’s Next
Claudia’s creative energy extends far beyond acting. “There is a lot of writing on my worktable at this time,” she shares. “I’m writing a screenplay, which will likely be turned into a novel later. Interestingly, it chose to manifest that way, the screenplay first rather than the novel.”
She is also venturing into design. “On a completely different sphere, I’ve been developing a line of handbags. The brand and patterns are still in development, so the magic happens behind closed doors for now.”
Film and television projects are also on the horizon. “A couple of films and TV shows will be starting their run soon. Law & Order TO Criminal Intent, directed by Zoe Hopkins, is due to air in 2026, and a labour of love shot in Vancouver called Pepe Sul Cuore by emerging writer and director Oriana Di Nucci will soon begin its festival run. I fell in love with this short film and its creators, the entire production team included.”
Eva Tavares and Claudia Ferri in Pepe Sul Cuore. Photo provided by Perfect Media 7 Inc.
COMING HOME
No matter how far her work takes her, Claudia’s roots in Canada remain strong. “I’ve been bicoastal for 40 years,” she says. “So when I go to Montreal, the first thing I do is visit with my loved ones, my family, my recreated family, Betty and Olivier, whom I affectionately call ‘my parents, take two.’ My actual parents passed on nearly 30 years ago, and Betty and Olivier became a most appreciated and loving reference in my life and my children’s lives.”
Her visits stretch beyond Quebec. “When I go to British Columbia, I love to see my friends Adua and Cita in Steveston, where it’s said the Sun always shines, Jennifer, Dina, Jody in Vancouver, my long-time friend Debbie, and the Websters, my family on Vancouver Island. I’m really attached to the beauty of the islands and the countryside that stretches from coast to coast across Canada.”
For Claudia, that connection to place and people is as integral to her artistry as any role she’s played. Her story is one of movement and belonging, of curiosity and gratitude, and of a distinctly Canadian perspective that continues to shape her path wherever it leads next.
Catch Claudia in Palm Royale Season 1 on Apple TV and connect with her on Instagram.