Jake Canuso


Jake Canuso is a Italian-British actor and dancer, who is known for his role in the ITV comedy series Benidorm, in which he plays the Solana barman Mateo Castellanos.

Personal life

Canuso was born near Zurich, Switzerland, to immigrants from southern Italy. He moved to the UK when he was 18 years old.
Canuso survived the Indian Ocean tsunami on 26 December 2004, whilst on holiday in Ko Phra Thong, Thailand. He climbed a tree after seeing the first waves, and was trapped underwater after the tree snapped. He developed aquaphobia and did not swim in water for several years.

Career

Previously a dancer, Canuso appeared dressed as a ballet dancer in the music video for 'No More I Love You's' by Annie Lennox. He also appeared in the video of Kakko's 1990 video 'We Should Be Dancing', Alex Party's 1995 hit single 'Don't Give Me Your Life' as well as the video for Carter USM's Let's Get Tattoos and 2 unlimited's 1995 hit, Here I go. Canuso also toured as a dancer for acts including the Spice Girls, Elton John and Annie Lennox. He also appeared as a dancer often on Top of the Pops.
Canuso can be seen dancing in the video for the 1994 hit 'Son of a Gun' by British dance DJ JX.
Canuso can also be seen in the music video for the Emma Bunton song "Crickets Sing for Anamaria".
Canuso stars in the ITV comedy series Benidorm as flirtatious barman Mateo Castellanos and is the sitcom's longest-serving actor, appearing in all 74 episodes. Canuso was chosen to star in Benidorm Live, a touring stage adaptation of the show.
In January 2013, Canuso participated in ITV diving show Splash!, hosted by Tom Daley.

Notable Work

Television

YearTitleRoleLocation
2005/2006Jack & the BeanstalkJackBradford Alambah, Bradford
2014/2015AladdinTBCThe Forum, Billingham
2017/2018Mother GooseTBCSheffield Lyceum, Sheffield
2018/2019Benidorm LiveMateoUK tour with 250 shows
2019/2020AladdinTBCNew Theatre, Hull

Other Work

Music videos