Maria Bakalova

Maria Bakalova (also credited as Μαρία Βάλτσεβα Μπακάλοβα, 마리아 바카로바, 瑪莉亞·巴卡洛娃) is a Bulgarian screen actor born on June 4, 1996, in Burgas, Bulgaria. Emerging from Bulgaria’s film scene, she built her craft while studying at the National Academy for Theatre and Film Arts, quickly earning notice for emotionally grounded performances.

Before international audiences discovered her, Bakalova was already taking on demanding dramatic roles in Bulgarian cinema. Her global breakthrough arrived with the 2020 mockumentary Borat Subsequent Moviefilm, a performance that propelled her into the awards conversation, including major nominations and wins across critics’ and industry groups.

Since then, Bakalova has moved confidently between genres and productions, expanding her profile in both studio and independent projects. Her recent and upcoming credits include The Honeymoon (as Sarah), Birds of Prey (as Nina), Branded (as Lilly), Floodplain, I Don't Like You, My Masterpiece, and Untitled Spy Comedy.

She has also stepped into high-profile voice work, joining the Marvel universe in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 as Cosmo (voice). With each new role, Bakalova continues to pair sharp instincts with fearless choices, making her one of Bulgaria’s most internationally visible acting talents.