Nicolas Heller
Nicolas "Nico" Heller, better known as "New York Nico", is an American documentary film director and social media personality known for his Instagram account @newyorknico. Nicknamed the "Unofficial Talent Scout of New York", Heller uses his platform to share photos, videos and stories showcasing life in New York City. Early life and career. Nico is the son of art director Steven Heller and graphic designer Louise Fili. He grew up in New York City and attended The Little Red School House and Elisabeth Irwin High School. He obtained a degree in film from Emerson College and has gone  on to create music videos, commercials, documentaries, and more under his production company, Heller Films. He first garnered attention for finding and recording offbeat New Yorkers. Heller Films' ordinary operation was put on pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, and subsequent lockdown in New York City. During this time, Heller held a contest for "Best New York Accent." New Yorkers in quarantine sent him video clips of their accents. The resulting videos went viral, and the project was picked up by mainstream media including "The" "New York Times" and "CNN." Heller used the New York-themed contest platform to raise hundreds  of thousands of dollars for charity. Small businesses are highlighted regularly on his social media channel to bring awareness to their fight to stay in business during the economic challenges of COVID-19, including Astor Place Hairstylists, Ray's Candy Store, Army & Navy Bags, Veselka and more. Personal life. Heller lives in Brooklyn. MTA collaboration. In November 2020, Heller announced a venture with MTA to enlist celebrities and notable New Yorkers to record public messages for use in the New York City subway. As of Spring 2020, messages have been recorded by: