Gia Carides

Gia Carides (born 7 June 1964) is an Australian actress. She is best known for her portrayals of Liz Holt in Strictly Ballroom, Susy Connor in Brilliant Lies, and Cousin Nikki in My Big Fat Greek Wedding.

Early life

Carides was born in Sydney, Australia, to a Greek father and an English mother. She began acting at the age of 12. Her first film was the hard hitting drama The Love Letters from Teralba Road starring Bryan Brown and Kris Macquade.

Career

Early in her career, Carides starred as Helena Angelopolous on the Australian television series Police Rescue, while also having acclaim for her films Strictly Ballroom and Brilliant Lies, receiving AFI Award nominations for each.

She is best known for her roles as Robin Spitz/Swallows in Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me and as Cousin Nikki in My Big Fat Greek Wedding and the sequel television show My Big Fat Greek Life.

Carides works in both America and Australia, credited with a host of film and television credits including Primary Colors, Year One and East of Everything. She also appeared in a guest spot of husband Anthony LaPaglia's television series Without A Trace.