Ana de Armas has opened up about her long-standing friendship with Keanu Reeves and the unexpected path that led her into action films. Speaking at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Saudi Arabia, the actress shared new insights into her Hollywood journey—from her childhood in Cuba to her biggest roles today.
Meeting Keanu Reeves Marked a Turning Point
Ana recalled first meeting Reeves when she traveled to Los Angeles to film Eli Roth’s Knock Knock. At the time, the Ghosted star spoke almost no English and remembered feeling overwhelmed by the challenges on set. Despite the struggle, she said the experience sparked a “beautiful friendship” with Reeves, whom she described as “incredibly kind and generous.”
Their professional reunion this year for Ballerina made everything feel “full circle” for the actress.
Action Films Were Not Part of the Plan
The Blonde actress admitted she “never thought” she would end up in action-packed roles. However, films such as No Time to Die, The Gray Man, Ghosted, and Ballerina pushed her into the genre. Ana said the physical preparation was “exhausting,” adding that intense training continued throughout filming.
From Cuba to Hollywood
Ana also reflected on her upbringing in Cuba, describing her early years as “very free and very social.” She began acting in Havana before moving to Madrid at 18 with very limited savings. Her rise to fame came through a popular Spanish TV series, but the limited scope of roles convinced her to pursue opportunities in Los Angeles.
The actress pointed to Blade Runner 2049 as a defining moment in her career and credited Blonde with deepening her understanding of her craft.